The US administration has temporarily paused immigrant visa appointments worldwide as part of a planned global training initiative for consular officers, according to the State Department.
The initiative is intended to strengthen and standardize the screening and vetting of visa applicants. Officials said the process will include assessing whether applicants could become a “public charge” by relying on public benefits.
The State Department said the training began at US embassies and consulates in early August. As a result, visa service appointments are being adjusted, with affected applicants expected to receive information directly from the relevant embassy or consulate.
The move is part of broader immigration measures under the Trump administration aimed at tightening screening and enforcement. The administration has also taken steps affecting visa holders and is considering additional fees and restrictions for certain immigration and work programs.
The pause has created uncertainty for applicants who have already made travel, employment or relocation plans based on scheduled visa interviews. The State Department has not provided a specific timeline for when regular appointment processing will fully resume.
