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US Visa Freeze for 75 Countries - Trump Immigration Update

The U.S. Department of State recently announced a temporary pause on issuing immigrant visas for nationals of 75 countries. While this may sound worrying at first, there’s no need to panic. Most of the visa process continues as normal, and this pause only affects the final stage of consular services at U.S. embassies abroad.

Based on our research, many applicants, especially from Pakistan, are investors, business owners, or skilled workers who are less likely to use U.S. government financial services while immigrating. This means most Pakistani applicants may not be significantly affected.

Let's go over the main points of this update to make it clear what has changed, what hasn't, and who is affected:

What Has Changed?

Under the US Visa Freeze for 75 Countries – Trump Immigration Update, the U.S. Department of State has temporarily stopped issuing certain immigrant visas.

What Will Stay The Same?

Even though there is a pause on issuing final visas, many parts of the immigrant visa process are still the same:

  Applications will still be accepted.

  The interviews for immigrant visas will go on as planned.

  Cases will still be looked at and active in the system.

The most important thing to remember is that the visa will only be temporarily put on hold. Your case will still be processed as usual.

Who Doesn't Have To Stop?

You don't have to follow these new rules if you are a dual citizen and have a valid passport from a country that isn't affected by the pause. You can keep working on your visa without any problems.

Have Any Visas For Immigrants Been Taken Away?

No, the Department of State has made it clear that this update did not cancel any visas. This short break will not change your current visa status.

Does This Have An Effect On AOS In The U.S.?

No, this pause does not affect applications for "adjustment of status" that were filed in the United States. However, applicants should still be aware that they may still be subject to "public charge" scrutiny.

Important Travel Reminder For Applicants Who Are Affected

We strongly advise you to avoid unnecessary international travel until the situation becomes clearer if you are from a country that is affected by this pause and your immigrant visa case is still open. This is very important because traveling outside the U.S. could have an effect on how your case is handled.

Who Will Be Affected By This Break?

This pause only affects people from certain countries who are going through consular processing outside of the United States. Countries that are affected are:

Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Bangladesh, Brazil, Cuba, Egypt, Ethiopia, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, Russia, Somalia, Syria, Sudan, Yemen, and many more.

Please visit the Department of State website for the full list of countries that are affected.

What Does This Mean For You?

If you live in one of the affected countries, it's important to keep up with the latest news and be aware of any changes to the advice. This pause is only temporary, but it's important to remember that the **visa application process is still going on**; it's just the final issuance that is taking longer. If you're already in the U.S., this won't change your "adjustment of status," and it won't take away any visas you already have.

We know that going through the immigration process can be very stressful, especially when there are changes like this. We hope you feel better about the situation now that you know what has changed and what has stayed the same. For any news about your case, stay in touch with your lawyer or immigration advisor.

You can find more information on the official U.S. Department of State website or contact Lalani & Associates for personalized guidance based on your specific situation.

This update is meant to keep you up to date and help you make decisions based on the best and most recent information. Stay positive, stay informed, and remember that this is only a temporary problem that will get better.

Question That Comes Up A lot

1. How long will this break from the immigrant visa last?

The U.S. Department of State has not yet given a specific end date. The pause is said to be temporary, and these kinds of actions are usually looked at again regularly. People who are applying should check official updates or stay in touch with their immigration advisor to get the most up-to-date information.

2. Will this break mean that my immigrant visa case will be denied?

No. This pause does not mean that you are denying or rejecting. Your case will still be active and under review. Once the pause is over, visas that are eligible can be issued.

3. What happens next if I've already had my interview?

If your interview is over and your case is otherwise approved, your application may stay in administrative holding until visa issuance starts again. Unless the consulate contacts you, you don't need to do anything else.

4. Can I go from consular processing to adjustment of status (AOS)?

You may only be able to switch from consular processing to AOS if you are legally in the U.S. and meet the requirements. This is a decision that depends on the case and should be made with the help of a qualified immigration lawyer.

5. Will this break have an effect on jobs and visas for family members?

Yes, the pause applies to both family-based and employment-based immigrant visas if the person applying is from a country that is affected and is going through a U.S. consulate abroad.

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