U.S. visas: what changes for Moroccans after a judge’s decision

Judge Jeannette Vargas, of the Manhattan federal court, ruled Friday that this policy was “clearly illegal.” According to Reuters, she considers that Secretary of State Marco Rubio exceeded the powers granted to him by law by imposing a general ban based on nationality.

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Since January 21, Moroccan nationals had been affected by the U.S. freeze on immigrant visas, alongside those from 74 other countries. Washington justified this suspension by citing the risk that some new immigrants would become a “public charge” and depend on U.S. assistance.

Return to individual review of applications

This is the main change for Moroccan applicants. Their passport alone can no longer lead to the automatic suspension of their application. Consular officers must return to an individual review of each application.

This does not mean that visas will automatically be granted. Applicants remain subject to all U.S. immigration rules, particularly those concerning financial resources, family situation and the various grounds of inadmissibility.

The decision does not concern tourist or short-stay visas, which were not covered by the January suspension. However, difficulties accessing the United States have recently affected other categories of Moroccans, notably 2026 World Cup supporters facing visa procedures.

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The State Department may still attempt to challenge the decision. But as long as it remains in force, the principle changes for Moroccans wishing to immigrate to the United States: their applications can no longer be blocked collectively solely because of their nationality and must be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.