U.S. State Department Confirms Worldwide Pause on Immigrant Visa Applications

The U.S. State Department has confirmed a worldwide pause in immigrant-visa applications while consular officers undergo updated public-charge training. The initiative began across embassies and consulates in early August, and scheduled interviews are now being canceled or rescheduled. Officials said the program is intended to ensure officers consistently assess whether applicants could rely on U.S. public benefits. The pause follows a federal judge’s decision striking down an earlier suspension targeting 75 countries. The department has not said when appointments will resume, leaving applicants with uncertain timelines after lengthy waits and travel arrangements.