US suspends immigrant visa for Bangladeshis

 
The United States has suspended the issuance of immigrant visas for Bangladeshi citizens, citing concerns over the high use of public welfare benefits by some immigrants, the US Embassy in Dhaka said in a statement on Saturday.

The embassy did not specify how long the suspension will remain in effect or whether any exemptions would apply.

According to the statement, the embassy said, the suspension has been in effect since January 21 this year and was intended to allow a comprehensive review of US visa screening policies and procedures to ensure they prioritize the interests of the American people.

According to the embassy, the suspension has been in effect since January 21 this year and was intended to allow a comprehensive review of US visa screening policies and procedures to ensure they prioritize the interests of the American people.

"The United States has a responsibility to its taxpayers to ensure that immigrants do not illegally access government welfare benefits or become a burden on public assistance," the embassy said the statement.

The embassy said the review will examine existing screening policies and procedures to strengthen safeguards and ensure that prospective immigrants are able to support themselves without relying on government-funded assistance.

The suspension applies only to immigrant visas and does not affect non-immigrant visa categories, including tourist and student visas.

An immigrant visa allows a foreign national to live permanently in the United States, while non-immigrant visas are issued for temporary travel, such as tourism, study, business, or employment.