US Pauses Immigrant Visa Applications Worldwide
The United States has paused all immigrant visa applications worldwide as the Donald Trump administration moves to tighten restrictions on applicants it considers likely to rely on US public assistance.
A State Department official confirmed the pause on Tuesday, saying the agency launched the initiative at all US embassies and consulates in early August.
A report by The Guardian on Wednesday said visa appointments had to be adjusted to accommodate what the department described as “in-depth training.”
The State Department added that the move was intended to ensure that all consular officers were fully equipped to evaluate every visa applicant comprehensively and consistently.
According to agency officials, the measure is aimed at ensuring that visa applicants do not become reliant on US public benefits.
The move is also part of a broader immigration crackdown under the Trump administration, targeting both lawful and undocumented immigration.
