ISLAMABAD, Jan 17 – The United States has paused immigrant visa processing for Pakistan and 74 other countries, the US Embassy in Islamabad confirmed on Friday. The suspension, announced by the Trump administration, will remain until authorities can ensure that all new immigrants are thoroughly vetted and eligible for a US visa.
“The Trump Administration is focused on protecting the American people by upholding the highest standards of screening and vetting of visa applicants,” the Embassy said in a statement on X. The pause, effective January 21, applies only to immigrant visas and does not affect nonimmigrant visas for tourists, students, skilled workers, athletes, or their families.
US Secretary Rubio has instructed the review to confirm that visa applicants will not rely on public assistance and meet all eligibility requirements.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office said Islamabad is in contact with US authorities to monitor the situation. “This is evolving news, and we hope routine immigrant visa processing will resume soon,” FO spokesperson Tahir Andrabi told a weekly briefing in Islamabad, emphasizing ongoing consultations with Washington.
The decision reflects a broader US policy of tightening immigration screening while ensuring national security, leaving prospective immigrants awaiting updates on their visa applications.
