The United States has extended the closure of visa services at its embassies and consulates across Pakistan until Friday, March 6, citing the current security situation following nationwide protests.
The suspension comes after demonstrations erupted in several cities over the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei during Israeli and American attacks in Iran.
The US Embassy in Islamabad confirmed that all visa appointments have been canceled until March 6 due to security concerns.
Visa services have also been suspended at US consulates in Lahore and Karachi. According to the embassy, all scheduled appointments stand canceled until further notice, with fresh dates to be communicated soon.
Due to the current security situation, the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad and the Consulates General in Lahore and Karachi have cancelled all visa appointments through Friday, March 6.
— U.S. Embassy Islamabad (@usembislamabad) March 3, 2026
The US Mission stated clearly that the cancellations are a precautionary measure linked to the evolving security environment.
Karachi, Lahore consulates halt services
In an alert issued on its official website, the US Mission in Pakistan said traffic changes and possible disruptions prompted consulates in Karachi and Lahore to cancel all visa appointments and other services scheduled for the day.
The US Consulate in Karachi had already canceled visa services and appointments on the first day following the incident in Iran.
Meanwhile, the US Consulate in Peshawar has temporarily suspended all its operations since March 2.
Embassy to resume normal operations
The US Embassy in the federal capital announced that it will resume normal operations and also provide services to citizens of Peshawar during the temporary closure of the consulate there.
Applicants affected by cancellations in Karachi and Lahore will soon be informed about new appointment dates, the US Mission said.
The suspension follows protests held in various cities across Pakistan over the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei in Israeli and US attacks on Iran.
The demonstrations raised security concerns around diplomatic facilities, prompting precautionary measures by US authorities.
Advisory issued for US citizens
The US Mission also issued special instructions for American citizens residing in Pakistan. Citizens have been advised to carry identification documents when going out and to fully cooperate with local police authorities.
They have also been instructed to avoid large public gatherings or protest sites and to stay informed about the changing situation through email alerts and local media updates.
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