US temporarily suspends immigrant visa interviews worldwide

WASHINGTON, D.C.: The United States has temporarily paused immigrant visa interviews at its embassies and consulates worldwide. The interviews have been put on hold as part of a global training programme being conducted by the US State Department for consular officers. The training is aimed at ensuring more comprehensive and consistent screening of visa applicants, including identifying applicants who may be likely to become dependent on public benefits in the US.

The State Department has not disclosed details about the training or provided a timeline for its completion. It has also not announced when immigrant visa interviews will resume. Applicants who already had appointments are being notified that their interviews will be postponed and rescheduled.

The move comes as the US tightens its immigration controls.
The current pause applies specifically to immigrant visas and does not affect the processing of non-immigrant visas, including tourist, business, student and H-1B visas.

The development comes as the US Department of Homeland Security has proposed an additional $103,265 fee for H-1B petitions subject to the annual visa cap. The proposed fee, which would be in addition to existing filing and statutory fees, is not yet in effect.

The H-1B visa allows US employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations. Professionals from countries including India and China account for a significant share of H-1B beneficiaries.