US Temporarily Suspends Visa Interviews Worldwide

Study, Business Travel Face Disruptions

The Trump administration has temporarily suspended visa interviews for applicants worldwide.

Reuters reported on August 25 that a US State Department spokesperson said the department had begun training on stricter visa screening at all US embassies and consulates worldwide. As a result, visa interview schedules are being revised across the board.

The State Department said the training is meant to help consular officers screen out applicants deemed likely to depend on US public benefits and to ensure visa applicants are reviewed comprehensively and consistently. It did not disclose details of the training or its schedule. The Financial Times had earlier reported that interview appointments for visa applicants at US embassies and consulates were being rescheduled.

Applicants were told only that their existing interview appointments had been changed and that new dates would be announced later. The move will lengthen visa processing times and disrupt the plans of foreigners preparing for study, work and business travel. Since taking office, the Trump administration has pursued a hard-line immigration enforcement policy, including restrictions on visa issuance and the revocation of permanent residency.

Kim Ju-wan, Hankyung.com reporter, kjwan@hankyung.com