The United States has temporarily stopped processing all immigrant visa applications around the world.

The decision forms part of efforts by the Donald Trump administration to tighten rules on applicants seen as likely to depend on public assistance.

A State Department official confirmed the pause on Tuesday. The agency began the process at all US embassies and consulates in early August.

Officials said the step allows consular officers to receive thorough training so they can assess every applicant carefully and consistently.
People who already had interview appointments received emails cancelling their scheduled meetings.

They were told they would be informed of new dates later. It is still unclear when those appointments will be rearranged.

The measure aims to make sure visa holders do not become a burden on US public benefits. It comes as the administration continues broader steps to control both legal and undocumented immigration. A day earlier, plans were announced to revoke visas of people who entered the country as tourists or for business and later applied for asylum.

Immigration lawyers have raised concerns that the sudden cancellations disrupt the lives of applicants who spent significant money and made travel arrangements. The pause follows an earlier similar restriction that a federal judge recently overturned.

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