US temporarily suspends visa services at embassies worldwide
Immigrant visa interviews are being rescheduled, with no timeline for reopening, as Washington tightens immigration policy.
The United States has temporarily suspended visa services at its embassies and consulates worldwide, including adjustments to appointment schedules for applicants. The US State Department said the move comes as all diplomatic posts undergo global training for consular officers. The training is aimed at making visa screening more thorough and consistent, including vetting applicants deemed likely to rely on US public benefits. The Financial Times reported that some immigrant visa applicants who already had interview dates received emails saying their appointments had been rescheduled. Washington has not yet provided details on the training content or when interview services will return to normal. The policy comes as Donald Trump’s administration tightens US immigration rules.