If you’re a California resident with family members abroad trying to immigrate to the United States, or if you’re managing estate planning matters that involve international family connections, recent federal immigration policy changes may directly impact your plans.
What’s Happening?
The United States is indefinitely suspending immigrant visa processing from 75 countries, beginning January 21, 2026. This suspension is part of an expanded immigration enforcement effort and affects those seeking permanent residency through employment or family reunification.
Which Countries Are Affected?
The suspension impacts 75 countries including Brazil, Colombia, Egypt, Haiti, Somalia, Russia, and many others across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. The complete list includes Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Antigua and Barbuda, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belize, Bhutan, Bosnia, Brazil, Burma, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Colombia, Cote 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, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Macedonia, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Nepal, Nicaragua, Nigeria, 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.
What Type of Visas Are Suspended?
- Immigrant visas (green cards for permanent residency) are suspended, including employment-based and family-reunification visas
- Non-immigrant visas like tourist and student visas are NOT affected by this suspension
Why Is This Happening?
According to the State Department, the suspension is based on the “public charge” provision of immigration law, which aims to prevent entry of individuals who officials believe may become reliant on public resources. The pause allows the State Department to “reassess immigration processing procedures to prevent the entry of foreign nationals who would take welfare and public benefits,” according to spokesperson Tommy Pigott.
How This Affects California Estate Planning
For California families navigating estate planning with international connections, this suspension creates urgent planning considerations:
- Family succession planning: If your estate plan includes provisions for family members currently abroad in affected countries, their ability to immigrate and manage California assets may be delayed indefinitely
- Trustee designation: Naming a trustee or executor who is currently abroad may create complications if they cannot obtain legal residency
- Beneficiary access: Beneficiaries living in suspended countries may face barriers to claiming inheritance or managing trust assets in person
- Power of attorney concerns: If you’ve designated someone abroad to act as your healthcare or financial agent, immigration restrictions may prevent them from fulfilling those duties when needed
Questions California Families Are Asking
Can I still leave assets to family members in affected countries?
Yes, but you should work with an experienced estate planning attorney to structure your trust or will to account for potential immigration barriers and ensure proper asset distribution mechanisms are in place.
What if my designated executor lives in one of these 75 countries?
You may need to revise your estate plan to name an alternate executor who resides in the United States or has unrestricted ability to travel here.
How can I protect my family’s interests during this uncertain time?
Creating a comprehensive estate plan with contingency provisions, clear beneficiary designations, and properly structured trusts can help safeguard your legacy regardless of immigration policy changes.
Take Action to Protect Your Family’s Future
If you have family connections to any of the 75 affected countries, now is the time to review and update your estate plan. California Probate and Trust, PC specializes in helping California residents create comprehensive estate plans that protect families across borders and generations.
Our experienced Sacramento-based attorneys understand the intersection of immigration policy and estate planning. We offer free consultations to help you:
- Review your current estate documents for vulnerabilities related to international family members
- Restructure trusts and wills to account for immigration restrictions
- Designate backup executors, trustees, and agents who can act on your behalf
- Ensure your assets are protected and accessible to your intended beneficiaries
Schedule Your Free Estate Planning Consultation
Don’t let federal immigration policy leave your family unprotected. Contact California Probate and Trust, PC today for a no-obligation consultation. Call (866)-674-1130 or visit cpt.law to schedule your free appointment.
Legal Disclaimer
This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration and estate planning laws are complex and subject to change. The information presented here is based on publicly available news reports and should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with a qualified attorney. California Probate and Trust, PC does not practice immigration law. For specific legal guidance regarding your individual situation, please schedule a consultation with our estate planning attorneys or consult with an immigration attorney for matters related to visa processing and immigration status.