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US Temporarily Suspends Visa Interviews Worldwide to Reinforce Screening Training

Yoo Younggyu

Published : Aug 26, 2026 11:19 AM


▲ Citizens line up to obtain US visas in front of the US Embassy in Jongno-gu, Seoul, on July 31.

The Donald Trump administration has temporarily suspended visa interviews for visa applicants worldwide.

According to Reuters on the 25th (local time), a U.S. State Department spokesperson stated that day that training to strengthen visa screening has begun at all U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide, and that visa interview schedules are being adjusted accordingly.

The State Department stated, "The purpose of this training is to enable consular officers to screen out applicants deemed likely to rely on U.S. public welfare benefits and to ensure that visa applicants are screened comprehensively and consistently."

Specific details regarding the training content or schedule have not been disclosed.

Previously, the British daily Financial Times reported that interview schedules for visa applicants at U.S. embassies and consulates have been rescheduled one after another.

Applicants reportedly received notifications that their existing interview schedules were adjusted, along with instructions that new dates would be provided at a later time.

Since taking office, the Trump administration has pursued aggressive immigration enforcement policies through measures such as restricting visa issuance and revoking permanent residency.

(Photo: Yonhap News)