The United States has suspended immigrant visa processing at its embassies and consulates worldwide as the administration of President Donald Trump intensifies efforts to tighten immigration controls and prevent foreign nationals from becoming dependent on public assistance in the country.
A State Department official confirmed the development on Tuesday, saying the department began implementing the initiative at US diplomatic missions around the world in early August.
The official said visa appointments were being adjusted to allow consular officers to undergo what was described as “in-depth training” aimed at strengthening the assessment of applicants.
According to the State Department, the training is intended to ensure that consular officers are adequately prepared to assess visa applicants “comprehensively and consistently,” particularly under the administration’s renewed focus on whether prospective immigrants could become reliant on US government benefits. Related News Nigeria wants solar to deliver returns, not just more megawatts EBRD backs African tech startups with $8m Ventures Platform investment Naira firms as external reserves hit 18-year high of $53.11bn
The pause has already disrupted appointments for some applicants. According to reports, individuals who had previously secured interview dates received emails informing them that their appointments had been cancelled.
