US pauses all immigrant visa appointments globally amid H-1B row, crackdown: Report

The United States has reportedly halted all immigrant visa appointments worldwide due to a crackdown on immigration policies. This move is part of the administration's efforts to tighten restrictions on immigration. A State Department official cited by the Financial Times stated that the pause is aimed at limiting access to applicants who might require US assistance.

Additionally, Reuters reported that a State Department spokesperson announced a global training initiative at all US embassies and consulates, which will affect visa service appointments. Applicants scheduled for interviews at US embassies and consulates received emails informing them of rescheduled appointments and future notice of new dates.

The decision to cancel all visa appointments follows the Trump administration's proposal of a new $103,265 application fee for H-1B visas, which would allow American companies to hire foreign skilled workers. This proposal comes a day after the administration announced a hike in the fee from $100,000, initially halted by a court ruling in June.

The new fee is expected to take effect after a 30-day public comment period. The crackdown on immigrants by the Trump administration has been widely criticized by human rights groups as discriminatory and violating free speech and due process rights.