The freeze applies to green cards, naturalization, work permits, asylum, and status change applications from the listed countries. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued a guidance memo on Dec. 2 requiring additional vetting for all applications from countries labeled as “high risk.”

All affected applications now face an additional review process, which may include further interviews or renewed background checks. Previously approved cases can also be reviewed again under the new memorandum, meaning long-pending green card or naturalization files may be reopened.

The freeze follows a fatal shooting near the White House on Nov. 26 involving an Afghan national who received asylum in 2021, according to NBC News. Federal officials said the incident prompted a broad security review.

In a statement cited by The Washington Post, USCIS said the policy is intended to strengthen security screening for applicants from countries identified as higher-risk. The agency said the additional reviews are meant to address public safety and security concerns.

Immigrant support organizations, including the International Refugee Assistance Project and the American Immigration Lawyers Association, reported an increase in calls and emails from applicants seeking information about their status. According to ABC News, some individuals say they are now unable to renew work permits, apply for naturalization or complete family reunification plans while their cases remain on hold.

As of Dec. 18, the agency has not announced a timeline for when processing will resume.