ISLAMABAD: A senior Pakistani senator has voiced strong optimism that theUnited States may soon lift its recent suspension on immigrant visaissuances for Pakistani nationals, following productive engagements duringa parliamentary delegation visit to Washington. Senator Saleem Mandviwalla,who led key discussions, highlighted positive signals from US officialsamid ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the policy affecting thousandsof Pakistanis seeking permanent residency.
The US Department of State announced on January 14, 2026, a pause onimmigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries, includingPakistan, effective January 21, 2026. This measure targets countries whereimmigrants are perceived to have a higher likelihood of relying on publicbenefits, aiming to prevent abuse of American taxpayer resources through acomprehensive review of vetting, policies, and public charge regulations.
Senator Mandviwalla, a prominent member of the Pakistan Peoples Party andpart of the Senate-led delegation, engaged with US lawmakers and officialson Capitol Hill during the visit in late January 2026. In mediainteractions upon return, he stated that discussions raised hopes for anearly resolution, suggesting the US could lift the restrictions onimmigration visas for Pakistanis in the near future based on reassurancesreceived.
The delegation’s agenda encompassed broader bilateral ties, includingsecurity cooperation, trade enhancement, and issues concerning thePakistani diaspora in the United States. Senator Mandviwalla specificallyraised concerns over the visa pause’s impact on family reunification,professional opportunities, and educational pathways, emphasizingPakistan’s contributions to regional stability and counterterrorism effortsas leverage in negotiations.
Official US sources confirm the suspension applies solely to immigrantvisas for permanent residency and does not affect non-immigrant categoriessuch as tourist, student, or business visas. This distinction issignificant, as demand for temporary visas remains high, particularly withthe United States co-hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026 and preparing for the2028 Olympics, events expected to draw global visitors.
The policy stems from executive priorities under the current administrationto enforce stricter immigration controls and ensure self-sufficiency amongnewcomers. A State Department update lists affected nations across Asia,Africa, the Middle East, and beyond, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh,Iran, Nigeria, and Russia, with Pakistan prominently included due tostatistical concerns over public benefits usage.
No official timeline for lifting the ban has been disclosed by USauthorities as of late January 2026. Reviews of this nature could spanmonths, potentially resuming processing by mid-to-late 2026 if proceduraladjustments suffice, though major regulatory changes might extend theduration further. Pakistani applicants with pending cases face indefinitedelays unless exceptions apply.
During the Washington engagements, Senator Mandviwalla also addressedrelated diaspora issues, including instances of Afghan nationals allegedlyusing Pakistani identities in visa applications, a matter raised with UScounterparts to prevent misuse and strengthen bilateral trust. Thesediscussions underscore Pakistan’s proactive diplomacy in mitigating adverseeffects on its citizens abroad.
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The visit forms part of sustained parliamentary outreach to bolster Pak-USrelations amid evolving global dynamics. Invitations extended to USlawmakers for reciprocal visits to Pakistan aim to foster deeperunderstanding and cooperation across parliamentary channels, potentiallyaccelerating resolutions on consular matters.
Immigration agents and affected communities in Pakistan have expressedmixed reactions, with some welcoming the senator’s optimistic outlook whileurging concrete outcomes. The freeze disrupts long-term plans for manyfamilies, professionals, and investors, prompting calls for accelerateddiplomatic pressure to restore normal processing.
Analysts note that such pauses often serve as temporary measures pendingpolicy refinements, and positive bilateral engagements could expediterelief for Pakistan. Senator Mandviwalla’s statements reflect confidencedrawn from direct interactions, positioning parliamentary diplomacy as avital tool in navigating US immigration shifts.
The developments highlight the interplay between domestic US policypriorities and international partnerships. As Pakistan continues advocacythrough multiple channels, including its embassy in Washington, theprospect of eased restrictions offers cautious hope to those impacted bythe January suspension.
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