The US has paused immigrant visa appointments at embassies and consulates worldwide, according to a Financial Times report citing US State Department officials. The move comes as the Trump administration increases scrutiny of applicants who could potentially become dependent on government benefits.

Applicants who had scheduled interviews received emails informing them that their appointments had been postponed and that new dates would be communicated later, the report said.

The State Department has launched a global training programme for consular officers to assess visa applicants more closely and consistently, with particular focus on the "public charge" provision under US immigration law. A public charge refers to an immigrant deemed likely to become primarily dependent on government financial assistance.