Monrovia, Liberia – Opposition leaders celebrating the suspension of US immigration permits have been condemned by the Liberian government, which characterizes the move as hate speech rather than politics. At a press conference on Thursday, January 15, 2025, Information Minister Jerolinmek Piah informed reporters that the pause only pertains to visas that result in permanent residence (a green card) in the United States, such as family-based, employment-based, diversity, and other immigrant classifications. Liberian nationals are not prohibited from obtaining U.S. visas as a result.
According to him, tourist, business, student, exchange, and other temporary visas continue to be processed, and existing visas remain valid. The Government of Liberia recognizes the potential impact on citizens seeking permanent residence, and it is engaging U.S. authorities through diplomatic channels to seek clarification on the scope and duration of the pause and to advocate for fair consideration of Liberian applicants.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has indicated that interviews for immigrant permits will proceed without any obstacles, he pointed out. The only thing on hold is the issuance of immigration visas while the US government issues new regulations. Minister Piah stressed that opposition leaders who were punished for allegedly engaging in illegal activities while in office are attempting to link US domestic foreign policy to disapproval of the Boakai-led government. He stated that the new ruling has no detrimental effects on the relationship between the US and Liberian governments, which are in line.
As part of a comprehensive review of immigration screening practices, the United States halted the processing of immigrant visa applications for Liberia and 74 other nations on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, according to Fox News. This action may put thousands of travelers, including families, workers, and students, in limbo.
According to Fox News, consular personnel were told to halt processing until Washington reevaluates vetting standards and compliance requirements. The claimed suspension, which includes several visa categories, goes into effect on January 21. A date for the return of regular visa services has not been made public by U.S. officials.
Africa, the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and the Caribbean are among areas affected, highlighting the measure’s widespread impact. In Liberia, where travel to the US is strongly associated with education, diaspora ties, and family reunification, the development is receiving a lot of attention. Due to migration and deep cultural ties, Liberia has one of the strongest people-to-people connections in West Africa with the United States.
The relationship between the United States and Liberia began in the early 19th century when liberated African Americans settled along the coast of West Africa with the support of American organizations. Washington continues to be one of Liberia’s most important allies, offering security, development, and diplomatic assistance since the country’s founding in 1847.
In order to facilitate travel for business, education, and tourism, both governments have recently taken steps to enhance consular cooperation, including initiatives for visa reciprocity. Liberians, who had seen those actions as a step toward easier mobility, are now concerned about the alleged freeze. Any protracted ban, according to researchers, may directly affect family reunion, business travel, medical visits, and university admissions areas where ties between the United States and Liberia are particularly strong.
According to U.S. sources quoted by Fox News, the review’s goals are to improve immigration restrictions and make sure applicants fulfill the most recent security and eligibility requirements. Despite the fact that the policy is only meant to be temporary, many believe that more precise direction from Washington will be essential for controlling expectations and preserving trust among impacted nations.
Liberia’s Minister of Information advises the public to rely on official updates, noting that non-immigrant travel for business, study, and tourism is still permitted and that Liberians with valid visas may continue to travel legally.
