US State Department clarifies visa policy review timeline

The 60-day period for announcing the new visa policy concluded on Friday, as US media speculated an announcement might come that afternoon.

However, Ms. Bruce clarified that the Trump administration is currently conducting a comprehensive security review of visa policies, following an executive order issued on January 20. She stated that this review aims to strengthen security measures concerning visas and entry into the United States.

Addressing claims about Pakistan and Afghanistan being among countries facing potential visa restrictions, Ms. Bruce emphasized in a prior briefing, “First of all, there is no list.” Nevertheless, US media reports indicate that President Trump may soon implement travel bans or restrictions affecting citizens from more than a dozen countries, including Iran and Venezuela.

According to the executive order, US agencies are tasked with creating stricter vetting standards and must present a list of non-compliant countries by March 21.