US Suspends Immigrant Visa Services for Pakistan and Other Countries from January 21

Washington — The US State Department has announced the suspension of immigrant visa services for applicants from Pakistan and several other countries starting January 21.
According to a statement issued by the US Embassy in Pakistan, the new Trump administration is focusing on protecting American citizens while ensuring the highest standards of vetting and screening for visa applicants.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has immediately implemented the decision to suspend immigrant visa services. The service will remain suspended until the United States ensures that all new applicants have undergone complete security screening and have fully proven their eligibility for US immigrant visas.
The embassy clarified that this measure also includes ensuring that immigration applicants will not rely on government financial assistance or state aid upon arriving in the United States.
The US Embassy emphasized that this restriction applies only to immigrant visas and will not affect non-immigrant visa applications. Visa issuance for tourists, students, athletes, skilled workers and their families will continue as normal.
This move is being viewed as part of the Trump administration’s strict immigration policy that prioritizes national security and economic interests.