US Announces Temporary Hold on Immigration Processing for 19 Countries, Including Sierra Leone
Aminata Koroma The United States government has announced a temporary suspension of several immigration documents and procedures for citizens of 19 countries, including Sierra Leone, which are currently under a national security review.
The partial ban affects the processing of immigrant visas, adjustment of status (Green Card applications), Green Card issuance or renewal, naturalization documents including interviews and oath ceremonies certain asylum applications, and other USCIS case approvals connected to immigration benefits.
Authorities clarified that the measure is part of a routine security reassessment aimed at verifying identity records and strengthening processing systems. They emphasized that this is not a denial of applications, but a temporary hold that will remain in place until the review is completed.
Affected individuals are advised to monitor their USCIS online accounts and email for updates and to ensure all required documents are prepared for when processing resumes.
The embassy stressed that the temporary hold applies broadly to all citizens from the listed countries and is not targeted at specific individuals.
The embassy further urged the public to remain informed and patient, assuring that processing will continue once the security review concludes.