US Embassy Islamabad extends visa suspension to March 20

ISLAMABAD: The suspension of visa services has been extended by the US Embassy in Islamabad until March 20.

While offering regular and emergency services to US citizens, it has canceled all scheduled visa appointments.”All immigrant and non-immigrant visa appointments are cancelled through March 20.”

The US Embassy stated in a post on X that affected visa applicants will receive email instructions on how to reschedule their appointments.

Additionally, the U.S. Consulate General in Karachi and Lahore has suspended all consular services.

Earlier, in the wake of escalating tensions in the Middle East, the United States Embassy issued urgent instructions to its consulates in Karachi and Lahore, directing non-essential American personnel and their family members to depart Pakistan immediately.

The decision has been described as a precautionary measure; however, diplomatic circles are viewing it as a significant signal within the context of the evolving strategic environment in the region.

According to an official statement released by the U.S. Embassy, the move has been taken in light of the prevailing regional situation and security concerns. The statement clarified that no such directive has been issued for the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad at this time.

Sources indicate that the U.S. Consulates in Karachi and Lahore are bound to fully implement the directive, and a phased drawdown of non-essential staff is expected to begin promptly.

The U.S. Department of State has also initiated a fresh review of the security situation, with the possibility of updating travel advisories for American citizens.