

Pakistan says it hopes routine processing of US immigrant visas will resume soon following an internal review by American authorities. The suspension covers Pakistan and 74 other countries and could delay travel, work and study plans for many applicants.
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The United States announced that it will suspend immigrant visa processing for Pakistan and dozens of other countries starting January 21, citing concerns about dependency on public welfare programs among new immigrants. Islamabad’s Foreign Office described the pause as part of an ongoing internal review and said officials are in regular contact with the US to clarify details and timelines.
Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi expressed optimism that routine processing will resume soon, but acknowledged the situation is evolving and that no definitive restart date has been provided. The pause could impact thousands of Pakistanis planning long-term travel, academic opportunities or employment in the United States, with local consulates expected to offer guidance to affected applicants.
As Pakistan and the US continue dialogue, applicants are being advised to stay updated with consular guidance to navigate any delays and uncertainties in visa processing.
