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US Embassy Extends Pakistan Visa Suspension Amid Security Crisis

The US Embassy in Islamabad has extended the suspension of all visa services until March 20, with consular services in Karachi and Lahore also remaining suspended. The move follows a March 3 order for non-emergency US government staff and their families to leave the consulates in Lahore and Karachi due to safety risks. This security situation emerged after widespread protests in Pakistan erupted following the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader in a reported US-Israeli strike. The protests led to violent clashes, including outside US diplomatic posts, resulting in multiple casualties.

Key Points: US Embassy Pakistan Visa Services Suspended Until March 20

  • Visa services suspended until March 20
  • Consular services halted in Karachi & Lahore
  • Security risks prompt staff departure
  • Protests followed killing of Iran's leader
2 min read

US Embassy in Islamabad extends suspension of visa services until March 20

US Embassy in Islamabad extends visa suspension, consular services halted in Karachi & Lahore amid security concerns after protests.

"All immigrant and nonimmigrant visa appointments are cancelled through March 20. - US Embassy in Islamabad"

Islamabad, March 13

The US Embassy in Islamabad on Friday extended the suspension of its visa services until March 20 while stating that all consular services at the US Consulates General in Karachi and Lahore also remain suspended.

In a statement shared on X, the US Embassy in Islamabad mentioned, "The US Embassy in Islamabad continues to serve US citizens requiring routine and emergency services. All immigrant and nonimmigrant visa appointments are cancelled through March 20. Affected visa applicants will receive instructions by email on rescheduling their appointments."

The Embassy shared the details of the website, where applicants can check the status of their appointment. The Embassy further stated, "All consular services at the US Consulates General in Karachi and Lahore remain suspended."

On March 3, the US ordered non-emergency government employees and family members of staff at its Consulates in Lahore and Karachi to leave Pakistan, citing safety concerns, according to an official statement.

In a statement, the US Embassy in Pakistan said, "On March 3, 2026, the Department of State ordered non-emergency US government employees and the family members of US government personnel from US Consulates Lahore and Karachi to leave Pakistan due to safety risks. There is no change to the status of Embassy Islamabad."

The decision was taken after protests erupted in Pakistan following the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli strike on February 28. At least 23 protesters were killed in clashes in Pakistan, including 10 outside the US Consulate in Karachi, and 11 in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan's (PoGB) Skardu, where the crowd also torched a UN office. Two protestors were killed in Islamabad, Pakistan's leading daily The Express Tribune reported.

In Karachi, demonstrators gathered outside the Consulate, where witnesses reported gunfire in the area.

In Lahore, hundreds of protesters assembled outside the Consulate, with clashes reported after police used tear gas to disperse the crowd.

In Islamabad, protesters attempted to march towards the Embassy despite roadblocks and heavy security deployment.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
The situation sounds very volatile. It's sad to see protests turning violent and lives being lost, whether in Karachi or Skardu. Diplomatic missions have to protect their staff, but ordinary people seeking visas get caught in the middle. A tough situation all around. 🙏
R
Rohit P
From an Indian perspective, we've seen how instability in our neighbourhood affects everything. This will impact trade, travel, and people-to-people contacts. Hope the Pakistani authorities can ensure security so that essential services can resume.
S
Sarah B
While the security concerns are valid, the communication from the embassy could be better. Just an email saying "cancelled" isn't enough for people who have spent months planning. They should provide a clearer roadmap for rescheduling.
V
Vikram M
The trigger was the strike in Iran, but the reaction spilling over and targeting diplomatic missions is concerning. It shows how regional tensions can quickly escalate. India needs to watch this closely for our own strategic calculus.
K
Karthik V
Feel for the applicants. The US visa process is already a long, expensive affair. This adds another layer of anxiety. Hopefully it's just a short-term suspension and not a sign of deeper diplomatic issues.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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