The U.S. Department of State has announced a temporary suspension of scheduling interviews for immigrant visas at all embassies and consulates worldwide. The measure took effect on 26 August 2026.
The suspension applies exclusively to immigrant visas that lead to permanent residence. Tourist, student, business, and temporary work visas continue to be processed as usual.
The official reason is a global training program for consular officers. Officers are being trained to more thoroughly screen applicants for the risk of becoming a "public charge," that is, dependent on U.S. government benefits.
The training began in early August. To conduct it, the department decided to adjust the interview schedule. Applicants are receiving notifications directly from embassies and consulates.
The timeline for resuming operations has not been announced. According to estimates from anonymous sources at the State Department, the pause could last several weeks depending on the specific post.
The decision comes amid the tightening of immigration policy by the administration of Donald Trump. Earlier, a court overturned a ban on issuing immigrant visas to citizens of 75 countries, including Russia, which was motivated by the same concerns about "public charge."
How long will this pause last and how will it affect the thousands of applications already filed?
For now, one thing is clear: immigrant visas have temporarily become less accessible to everyone planning to move to the United States for permanent residence.
