An Iranian physician accuses U.S. immigration authorities of retaliation after her green card application faced swift denial following a lawsuit she filed for processing updates.
Visa Processing Pause Hits High-Risk Countries
The Trump administration suspended immigrant visa reviews for nationals from 75 countries, including Iran, Afghanistan, Russia, and Somalia, starting January 21. Officials cite concerns that these individuals may rely on public assistance. The State Department, under Secretary Marco Rubio, enforces this halt tied to a November order tightening rules on potential public charges.
While non-immigrant visas for tourism or business continue, affected immigrants face restrictions: no legal work, health insurance, or driver’s licenses. Departing the U.S. risks permanent re-entry bans.
Physician’s Case Caught in Limbo
Zahra Shokri Varniab, a 33-year-old radiology researcher, arrived in the U.S. three years ago. She awaits a green card for a residency program, but her application stalled amid the pause.
Varniab sued federal officials for a decision. A judge ordered review, granting it on February 20—resulting in immediate denial. Government lawyers highlighted inconsistencies in her plans to practice medicine and conduct research.
“I feel completely confused,” Varniab stated. She believes the denial stems from her legal action and notes the recent physician exemption may not apply since her case concluded.
Exemption Offers Lifeline for Doctors
Last week, the administration exempted physicians with pending visas or green cards. Medical groups and attorneys pushed for this amid U.S. doctor shortages, especially in underserved areas where foreign-trained professionals dominate, per National Library of Medicine data.
However, experts question its impact: reviews resume but approvals remain uncertain. Processing delays at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services could miss deadlines, leaving many doctors without updates.
Broader Impacts on Immigrants
Thousands from 39 countries, including Iran, Afghanistan, and Venezuela, remain affected. Science and tech professionals lose employment authorization, straining finances for rent and groceries. Iranian applicants fear returning home amid conflicts with U.S. and Israeli forces, compounded by internet blackouts hindering family contact.
The State Department defends the policy: “The Trump administration ends abuse of America’s immigration system by those extracting wealth from taxpayers.” Immigrant visa pauses allow reassessment to curb welfare use. Non-immigrant screenings intensify amid public benefits fraud concerns, with demand rising for 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics events.
