US statement over suspension of immigrant visas for Bangladeshis

The US Embassy in Dhaka has explained the main reason behind the decision to suspend immigrant visas for citizens of 75 countries, including Bangladesh. It has been said that this step has been taken to reduce the pressure on government welfare benefits.

In a message on Monday (March 23), the US Embassy in Dhaka said that the main purpose of this decision is to protect the interests of US taxpayers.

The message said, 'Our responsibility is to ensure that immigrants do not illegally take government welfare benefits and do not create an additional financial burden on the United States.'

The message also said that the relevant US department has temporarily suspended immigrant visas for 75 countries, including Bangladesh, considering that the rate of citizens of countries whose use of US government benefits is relatively high.

The decision came into effect from January 21. The US believes that this will create an opportunity for a complete review of the immigration screening process and policies.

However, the suspension only applies to immigrant visas. Nonimmigrant visas—such as tourist or student visas—are not covered, the US embassy said.