Belize Among Countries Hit by U.S. Immigrant Visa Processing Pause

Belize has been included among seventy-five countries affected by a newly announced pause in U.S. immigrant visa processing.  The news broke on Fox News and later confirmed by our Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade.  The Ministry said it is actively engaging the U.S. Embassy in Belmopan, while the Embassy of Belize in Washington, D.C. has been directed to seek clarification directly from the U.S. State Department on the scope and implications of the decision.  According to preliminary information provided to Belizean authorities, the pause applies to immigrant visas, which typically include family-based, employment-based, and diversity visas.  The Ministry emphasized that only a very small number of U.S. immigrant visa applications are processed in Belmopan and that there is no information at this time to suggest the decision will affect visitor or student visas.  International media reports have since provided additional context. Fox News Digital reported that it reviewed an internal State Department memo instructing consular officers to refuse immigrant visas under existing law while U.S. authorities reassess screening and vetting procedures, particularly regarding whether applicants may become a “public charge.” Reuters also confirmed the pause, citing a State Department spokesperson and the same memo, and noted that no timeline has been given for when processing may resume. The Associated Press reported that the suspension does not apply to non-immigrant visas, such as tourist or business travel.  While the U.S. government has not publicly released a full official list, Belize has now been officially confirmed as being included by local authorities.  The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it will continue to liaise with U.S. officials to confirm details and ensure Belizeans receive accurate and timely information on the status of U.S. visa processing.  Belizeans with pending immigrant visa applications are being advised to closely monitor official updates from the U.S. Embassy and to seek legal guidance if they are mid-process, particularly if nearing the interview stage.