US State Department Pauses All Immigrant Visa Applications

The US State Department has paused all immigrant visa applications as part of an initiative to tighten restrictions on immigration. A State Department official confirmed this development on Tuesday, stating that the move aims to limit access to applicants who may rely on US assistance. This initiative was launched at all US embassies and consulates in early August. Visa appointments have been adjusted to accommodate in-depth training for consular officers. The State Department has been working on updated guidance and training since early this year to ensure that consular officers are equipped to evaluate every visa applicant comprehensively and consistently.