US Immigration Visa Restrictions for Russian Citizens

Starting January 21, 2026, Russian citizens will face an indefinite suspension of their ability to apply for US immigration visas. This policy change specifically targets visas that permit long-term residency and eventual permanent status in the United States.

The restriction comes after a year in which Russian nationals received over 5,000 such permits. While the ban appears to focus on long-term immigration, it compounds existing logistical hurdles for all Russian travelers, including those seeking temporary entry for tourism or business.

The new policy effectively halts the processing of applications for immigrant visas, which are distinct from temporary travel permits. These documents are the primary pathway for foreign nationals seeking to live permanently in the United States, often leading to a Green Card and eventual citizenship.

Historical data illustrates the impact of this closure. In the previous year alone, the US government issued more than 5,000 of these authorizations to Russian applicants. The indefinite nature of the suspension creates uncertainty for thousands of families and individuals currently in the application pipeline or planning to apply.

• Immigrant visas: Indefinitely suspended starting Jan 21, 2026
• Non-immigrant visas: Not explicitly included in the ban
• Previous volume: Over 5,000 visas issued in 2024

While the new ban focuses on immigration, it exacerbates an already difficult environment for Russian travelers. Since September 2025, Russian citizens have been required to travel to specific locations to process non-immigrant visa applications. The US diplomatic missions in Russia no longer process these requests, forcing applicants to go abroad.

Currently, the only available locations for Russian nationals to apply for tourist or business visas are Warsaw and Astana. This requirement adds significant cost, time, and logistical complexity to the process, effectively limiting access even before the new immigration ban takes effect.

Applicants for non-immigrant visas must now submit their documents exclusively in Warsaw and Astana.

The distinction between the two types of visas is crucial for understanding the current landscape. The impending ban is expected to target immigration visas specifically, which are designed for those intending to settle in the US. This suggests that tourists and business visitors may not be directly affected by the January 21st suspension.

However, the practical reality for tourists remains challenging. The requirement to apply in Warsaw or Astana serves as a major deterrent. Consequently, the flow of Russian visitors for short-term stays has likely been curtailed by the logistical barriers introduced in late 2025, even if the specific visa category remains technically available.

• Immigration visas: Subject to the new indefinite ban
• Tourist visas: Technically exempt but restricted by location
• Application centers: Limited to Warsaw and Astana

The indefinite suspension of immigration visa processing for Russian citizens marks a significant shift in US visa policy for the region. With over 5,000 visas issued in 2024, the halt will impact a substantial number of applicants seeking permanent residency.

As the January 21, 2026 deadline approaches, the focus remains on the distinction between long-term immigration and temporary travel. While tourists retain theoretical access to US visas, the geographic restrictions established in late 2025 ensure that travel between the two nations remains significantly more difficult than in previous years.