ST. PAUL, Minn. — The Center for Victims of Torture (CVT) issued this statement as the Trump administration announces new and sweeping restrictions on immigration visas.

“President Trump has found yet another way not only to limit people seeking to come to the United States, but also to create misperceptions about the very real economic benefits that immigrant populations have long brought to the United States,” said Yumna Rizvi, CVT senior policy analyst.

In language from the White House, Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that visa processing will be halted for immigrants from 75 unnamed countries, beginning January 21. He noted that this action is intended to stop “welfare and public benefits” from going to immigrants. 

“The reality is that immigrants contribute enormously to the economic health of communities in ways that have been measured for years. In fact, immigrants paid a total of nearly $652 billion in taxes in 2023. This is in addition to the spending power they represent.

“In addition, the Trump administration has not issued its list of 75 countries, raising questions about the seriousness of this decision along with its imminent harmful impacts: this needlessly creates panic and alarm and puts thousands in limbo, including those fleeing from torture and persecution. The president uses cruel and deceptive claims like this to vilify immigrants and perpetuate harm,” Rizvi added.

-###-

The Center for Victims of Torture is a nonprofit organization with offices in Ethiopia, Iraq, Jordan, Kenya, Mexico, Uganda, United States and additional project sites around the world. Visit www.cvt.org