The U.S. Embassy in Tirana has issued an official statement following a decision by the U.S. Department of State to suspend the issuance of immigrant visas for a list of countries, including Albania.
In its announcement, the Embassy clarified that the decision affects only new immigrant visas and does not impact tourist (non-immigrant) visas or visas that have already been issued.
According to the statement, the suspension will take effect on January 21, 2026, and aims to ensure that immigrants are financially self-sufficient and do not become a public charge in the United States.
Exceptions apply only to dual nationals who hold valid passports from countries not included on the list.
U.S. Embassy in Tirana – Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to my immigrant visa interview appointment?
Immigrant visa applicants who are nationals of affected countries may still submit applications and attend interviews, and the Department will continue scheduling appointments. However, no immigrant visas will be issued to these nationals during the suspension period.
Are there any exceptions?
Dual nationals applying with a valid passport from a country not listed above are exempt from this suspension.
Does this affect my currently valid visa?
No immigrant visa has been revoked as part of this guidance. For questions related to entry into the United States, applicants are referred to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Does this apply to tourist visas?
No. This suspension applies only to immigrant visa applicants. Tourist visas are non-immigrant visas and are not affected.
The Embassy further stated:
“Donald Trump has made it clear that immigrants must be financially self-sufficient and not pose a financial burden on Americans. The Department of State is conducting a comprehensive review of all policies, regulations, and guidance to ensure that immigrants from these high-risk countries do not rely on public assistance in the United States and are not considered a public charge.”
Countries Affected by the Suspension (effective January 21, 2026)
Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Antigua and Barbuda, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belize, Bhutan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Myanmar, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Colombia, Côte d’Ivoire, Cuba, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Dominica, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Fiji, Gambia, Georgia, Ghana, Grenada, Guatemala, Guinea, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Jamaica, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyz Republic, Laos, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Nepal, Nicaragua, Nigeria, North Macedonia, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo, Russia, Rwanda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Uganda, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, and Yemen.
