Former US ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley has called for the United States to prioritise visa restrictions on China, saying it should be the “number one country” targeted for tighter controls.Haley posted the statement on X, writing: “The number one country we should be restricting visas from is China.” The post quickly drew attention online as immigration and national security remain major issues in the US.Her remarks come as the US has moved to freeze immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, affecting applicants seeking to permanently move to the country. The pause applies to immigrant visas and does not cover all temporary visa categories.The State Department has ordered a pause in immigrant visa processing for applicants from 75 countries, a move set to take effect from January 21, 2026, as Washington tightens screening under the “public charge” provision of US immigration law. The measure is aimed at restricting approvals for applicants who may be considered likely to rely on government assistance after moving to the United States, according to reports citing official communication sent to US missions abroad.The suspension applies to immigrant visa decisions handled by US embassies and consulates overseas, and does not apply across all temporary visa categories. The countries reported to be covered include Somalia, Russia, Iran, Afghanistan, Brazil, Nigeria and Thailand, among others.Haley has frequently taken a hard line on China and has previously raised concerns about security risks linked to visa access. She did not outline any detailed policy plan alongside her latest post, and there was no immediate official response from the US government.
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