U.S. embassies across Pakistan, Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia have suspended visa processing amid escalating Iran–Israel–U.S. tensions, leaving thousands of applicants in limbo.
U.S. embassies and consulates across six countries in the Middle East and South Asia have indefinitely suspended visa processing due to escalating tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. The move impacts Pakistan, Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia, leaving thousands of applicants facing uncertainty and delays.
US Embassy Operations Suspended Across Six Countries
The decision halts all routine visa services at U.S. diplomatic missions across the region. The U.S. Embassy in Kuwait City has fully suspended operations and canceled all consular appointments indefinitely, citing heightened regional tensions and security concerns, according to a State Department alert.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Affected Countries | Pakistan, Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia |
| Services Suspended | All routine visa processing and consular appointments |
| Duration | Indefinite suspension |
| Reason | Iran-Israel-US conflict and security concerns |
Extended Delays for Visa Applicants
Experts indicate that tens of thousands of applicants may face prolonged or indefinite delays in securing new appointments if the suspension of visa services continues.
Impact on Indian Travelers and H-1B Applicants
While the current suspension does not directly impact Indian applicants applying within India, it adds to existing challenges. Since September 2025, U.S. visa regulations require applicants to apply only from their country of residence or nationality, ending the option of booking faster appointments in third countries.
Notification Process for Affected Applicants
Applicants impacted by interview cancellations are being notified via email with instructions for rescheduling. However, revised appointment dates have not yet been announced. The uncertainty is further compounded by limited commercial flight operations from international hubs in the UAE, with the possibility of sudden disruptions.
Changes in U.S. Visa Application Rules
Recent policy changes have made the U.S. visa process more stringent. The interview waiver program (“Dropbox”) has been withdrawn for most applicants, requiring the majority of non-immigrant visa seekers to attend in-person interviews. As a result, embassy closures are causing significant disruption to the application process.
Ongoing Challenges for Indian H-1B Applicants
Indian H-1B applicants continue to face separate issues, including appointment rescheduling since December 2025. Many applicants have reported receiving new dates extending several months—or in some cases, even years—into the future, with no official clarification on timelines.
Overall Impact
The suspension further strains an already burdened U.S. visa system, particularly affecting applicants who had planned travel via the affected regions or require consular services in these countries.
FAQs
Q: Which countries are affected?
A: Visa services have been suspended in Pakistan, Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia.
Q: How are applicants being informed?
A: Affected applicants are receiving email notifications with rescheduling guidance, though new dates are pending.
Q: Can Indian applicants apply from these countries?
A: No. Current regulations require Indian applicants to apply from India.
Q: Are there alternatives for urgent applications?
A: Options are limited, as most applicants are now required to attend in-person interviews following the withdrawal of the interview waiver program.
Source: U.S. State Department
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