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The Trump administration has temporarily suspended or rescheduled visa interview appointments at US embassies and consulates worldwide as part of a new training programme for consular officers.
The US State Department said the global training initiative is aimed at strengthening and standardising the screening of visa applicants, including assessing whether prospective immigrants are likely to become dependent on US public benefits.
Applicants who already had interview appointments have been notified that their appointments will be rescheduled, with new dates to be announced later.
The department has not specified how long the suspension will remain in effect.
The move comes as President Donald Trump’s administration continues to tighten immigration and visa policies.
The administration has faced legal challenges over several of its immigration measures, including a policy targeting immigrant visa applicants from 75 countries.