U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide have been ordered to pause immigrant visa scheduling. This follows a federal court’s decision to strike down a policy that froze immigrant visa processing for nationals from 75 countries. In what some legal professionals view as a calculated administrative countermove, this new order was introduced under the banner of providing ‘in-depth training’ for the newly expanded public charge screening requirements.
Why Is There A Pause On All Immigrant Visa Scheduling?
According to the Department of State, the pause is to make room for a worldwide training initiative to help DOS consular officers determine whether visa applicants are likely to become dependent on U.S. public benefits.
While training occurs, U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide are postponing immigrant visa interviews and biometric appointments.
How Long Will The Pause Last?
The DOS has not provided any information on the duration of the pause or the training curriculum. This pause is expected to stall processing times globally for family and employment-based applicants alike. Sponsoring U.S. employers will likely face extended timelines for foreign national talent as consulate interview queues back up.
