ISLAMABAD: In a brisk action following US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s announcement, the US Embassy in Islamabad declared on Friday that a temporary suspension of immigrant visa issuance from several countries, including Pakistan, will come into effect on January 21. In a statement posted on X, the embassy emphasised that the suspension will only apply to immigrant visas – those designated for individuals seeking permanent residency in the United States. It further confirmed that non-immigrant visas, including those for tourists, students, athletes, skilled workers, and their families, will remain unaffected by the measure. The embassy explained that the decision was driven by the need to ensure new immigrants undergo a rigorous vetting process. “This pause will remain in effect until we can guarantee that all new immigrants meet the highest eligibility standards, including assurances that they will not rely on public assistance,” the statement stated. While the measure has sparked concern among those affected, it reinforces the Trump administration’s steadfast commitment to tightening immigration controls, with national security and economic welfare positioned as the primary justifications for the move. The move is poised to deliver far-reaching consequences for those already caught in the immigration pipeline. Yet, the US Embassy in Pakistan has offered little transparency on how long the suspension will endure or whether it could escalate to encompass additional visa categories, leaving many in a state of uncertainty. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026