The U.S. State Department announced a pause on immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries effective Jan. 21, a step university leaders warned could disrupt the flow of future international students and families pursuing permanent‑resident pathways. The suspension applies to immigrant visas only, not student or tourist visas, but Inside Higher Ed analysis noted the affected nations sent more than 200,000 students to U.S. colleges in 2024–25. The administration separately announced country‑specific pauses targeting Cambodia, Thailand and others, adding fresh uncertainty for recruitment plans and for graduate programs that rely on international talent.