US visas: what changes for Moroccans after a judge’s ruling

Judge Jeannette Vargas, of the Manhattan federal court, ruled Friday that this policy was “manifestly 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.

On Bladi.net : article 118943

Since January 21, Moroccan nationals had been affected by the US freeze on immigrant visas, along with nationals of 74 other countries. Washington justified the suspension by citing the risk that some new immigrants could become a “public charge” and depend on US assistance.

Return to individual case-by-case review

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

This does not mean that visas will automatically be granted. Applicants remain subject to all US immigration rules, particularly those concerning financial resources, family circumstances 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.

On Bladi.net : Morocco World Cup 2026 Visa Denials Spark Outrage

The State Department may still attempt to challenge the decision. But as long as it remains in effect, 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.