A group of civil rights organisations has filed a legal challenge in a New York court against the Trump administration’s decision to suspend the processing of immigrant visas for Pakistan and dozens of other countries. The lawsuit targets the US Department of State and argues that the policy undermines long-standing immigration laws and principles.
The case has renewed debate over US immigration policy, particularly its impact on families, skilled workers, and refugees from developing and conflict-affected nations.
Lawsuit Filed in New York Federal Court
According to the petition, a coalition of civil rights groups has approached a federal court in New York. The lawsuit challenges the State Department’s decision to halt immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries.
The plaintiffs argue that the move violates decades of established US immigration law. They say the policy disrupts legal pathways for migration that Congress has carefully shaped over many years.
The court has been asked to issue an injunction. This would immediately block the administration from enforcing the visa suspension while the case is heard.
Policy Implemented From January 21
The Trump administration’s decision to suspend immigrant visa processing came into effect on January 21. Since then, visa applications from the affected countries have reportedly faced indefinite delays.
Immigrant visas allow people to move permanently to the United States. They include family-based visas, employment-based visas, and diversity visas.
For many applicants, these visas represent years of waiting, documentation, and financial commitment. A sudden halt can leave families separated and careers on hold.
Pakistan Among 75 Affected Countries
Pakistan is among the countries directly impacted by the suspension. Others include Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Belarus, Bhutan, and Bosnia, among many more.
Most of the listed countries are in South Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Eastern Europe. Many have large diasporas in the United States.
According to US government data from previous years, Pakistan consistently ranks among the top countries for family-based immigrant visa applications. Thousands of Pakistanis receive permanent residency through legal channels each year.
Civil Rights Groups Raise Legal Concerns
In their court filing, the organisations argue that the administration’s policy damages the stable foundation of US immigration law. They say immigration rules cannot be altered through administrative decisions alone.
The lawsuit also raises concerns about fairness and transparency. Critics argue that the suspension disproportionately affects nationals from Muslim-majority and developing countries.
While the administration has defended the move as an administrative measure, opponents see it as part of a broader pattern of restrictive immigration policies.
Wider Context of US Immigration Policy
During Donald Trump’s presidency, immigration was a central political issue. The administration introduced several controversial measures, including travel bans, asylum restrictions, and tighter visa rules.
According to the Pew Research Center, legal immigration to the US declined during this period. Processing delays and policy uncertainty played a major role.
Immigrant advocates warn that such measures weaken America’s image as a country open to lawful migration. They also argue that immigrants contribute significantly to the US economy and society.
What Happens Next
The New York court is expected to review the case in the coming weeks. If an injunction is granted, visa processing for the affected countries could temporarily resume.
However, legal experts say the case could take months to resolve. Much will depend on how the court interprets executive authority over immigration.
For now, thousands of families remain in limbo. Many applicants continue to wait for clarity, hoping the legal challenge will bring relief.
