Visa freeze does not apply to tourists, students, athletes, skilled workers, and their families: US embassy

The United States has temporarily halted the issuance of immigrant visas for applicants from Pakistan and 74 other countries as part of a broader review of its visa screening process, the US Embassy in Pakistan said on Tuesday.

In a statement, the embassy said the decision reflects the Trump administration’s focus on tightening immigration controls. “The Trump Administration is focused on protecting the American people by upholding the highest standards of screening and vetting of visa applicants,” the statement read.

According to the embassy, the pause will take effect from January 21, with the Department of State suspending immigrant visa issuance for applicants from selected countries, including Pakistan.

Tweet by U.S. Embassy Islamabad

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has ordered the temporary freeze to allow authorities to review and strengthen vetting procedures.

“Secretary Rubio has instituted this pause until we can ensure that new immigrants have been vetted to the maximum degree to ensure their eligibility for a U.S. visa, including that they will not use public assistance,” the statement said.

The embassy clarified that the measure applies only to immigrant visas and will not affect nonimmigrant visa categories. “This action applies to the issuance of immigrant visas only. It does not apply to nonimmigrant visas, such as those for tourists, students, athletes, skilled workers, and their families,” it added.