US Pauses Visa Appointments Worldwide Amid Consular Training Programme

The United States has temporarily paused or rescheduled visa appointments at American embassies and consulates around the world, causing uncertainty among applicants. Several applicants with scheduled interviews have reportedly received cancellation notices, with new appointments expected to be assigned later. The US State Department has said the changes are linked to a global training programme for consular officers rather than a permanent suspension of visa services.

The development comes as the Trump administration continues to tighten immigration and visa screening procedures. The training programme is intended to ensure that consular officers apply the assessment process consistently, including scrutiny of applicants who may potentially rely on US public benefits. The latest move is expected to cause delays for applicants worldwide, while the State Department continues to update visa-processing arrangements.