The United States government has announced a pause on immigrant visa processing for Pakistan, citing the need to ensure applicants are vetted to the “maximum degree” to confirm their eligibility.
In a statement shared Friday by the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, the U.S. said the suspension will take effect on January 21 and applies to immigrant visa applicants from Pakistan and more than 74 other countries.
The decision follows a broader review ordered by Donald Trump, aimed at ensuring immigrants are financially self-sufficient and do not rely on public welfare programs. The statement said the Trump administration is focused on “upholding the highest standards of screening and vetting of visa applicants.”
According to the embassy, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio instituted the pause until the government can confirm that new immigrants are fully eligible for visas and will not depend on public assistance.
The suspension applies only to immigrant visas and does not affect non-immigrant visas, including those for tourists, students, athletes, skilled workers, and their families.
The U.S. State Department said the freeze will remain in place until officials can ensure new immigrants will not become a financial burden on Americans, as part of a comprehensive review of immigration policies and regulations.