An Iranian physician accuses U.S. immigration authorities of retaliation after her green card application faced swift denial following a lawsuit demanding clarity on its status.
Physician’s Legal Challenge and Denial
Zahra Shokri Varniab, a 33-year-old radiology researcher who arrived in the United States three years ago, sought a green card to pursue a residency program. Her application stalled amid a government pause on immigrant visas from high-risk countries. She filed a federal lawsuit requesting a decision, prompting a judge to order officials to review her case. On February 20, authorities delivered a denial shortly after the review.
Shokri Varniab believes the rejection stems from her legal action. “I feel completely confused,” she stated. Government filings highlight inconsistencies in her plans, questioning whether she intends to practice medicine, conduct research, or both. She maintains she plans to do both and argues the recent physician exemption does not apply since her case already received a decision. She now pursues further court relief.
Visa Processing Pause for High-Risk Countries
The State Department, under Secretary Marco Rubio, suspended immigrant visa processing for nationals from 75 countries—including Iran, Afghanistan, Russia, and Somalia—starting January 21. Officials cite risks that these individuals might rely on public assistance, aligning with a November order tightening “public charge” rules.
“The administration aims to end abuse of America’s immigration system by those who might extract wealth from public resources,” the department stated. “Processing pauses allow reassessment to prevent entry of nationals likely to use welfare and benefits.”
The halt affects thousands, including scientists and entrepreneurs from 39 countries like Iran, Afghanistan, and Venezuela. Many cannot legally work, secure health insurance, or obtain driver’s licenses. Departing the U.S. risks permanent reentry denial. Those from Iran face added concerns amid conflicts with U.S. and Israeli forces, compounded by internet blackouts hindering family contact and support.
Exemption Offers Hope to Doctors
Last week, authorities quietly exempted physicians with pending visa or green card applications. This responds to pleas from medical groups and attorneys, noting doctor shortages and the role of foreign-trained professionals in underserved areas, per National Library of Medicine data.
However, experts caution the change permits reviews but guarantees no approvals. Uncertainties persist on whether U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services can process cases timely amid deadlines. Many doctors await direct updates post-announcement.
The suspension spares non-immigrant visas, like tourist or business types, which dominate applications. Demand surges ahead of the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics, hosted or co-hosted by the U.S. Embassies now screen non-immigrant applicants for public benefits risks amid fraud crackdowns.
