U.S. State Department Halts Immigrant Visa Applications Worldwide

Why it matters locally: This nationwide halt on immigrant visa processing could affect Virginia residents with family abroad seeking to immigrate, as well as businesses and educational institutions that rely on international talent.

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The U.S. State Department has announced a worldwide halt to processing immigrant visa applications. This action impacts individuals seeking to obtain permanent residency in the United States. Officials indicated that the pause applies to all immigrant visa appointments. This measure follows previous efforts by the administration to modify immigration regulations. Earlier, a federal judge blocked a separate visa restriction. That previous ban would have impacted individuals from 75 countries.