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Global US immigrant visa pause: fallout across China, Asia and Hong Kong

On August 26, the US State Department announced a temporary pause on immigrant visa interview appointments at all embassies and consulates globally. Explore our complete coverage of the sweeping ripple effects across China, Hong Kong, and the rest of Asia.

Updated: 27 Aug, 2026

The US has issued a global pause for immigration visa appointments. Photo: Dreamstime/TNS

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Hong Kong lawmaker urges firms to expand into emerging markets amid US visa pause

Jonathan Lamport tells SCMP the local business community is closely monitoring whether business visa processing, approvals will be affected.

26 Aug, 2026

The US consulate in Hong Kong and Macau on Garden Road in Central. Photo: Jelly Tse

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Why US visa pause could have ‘real consequences’ for Asian applicants

Observers warn the pause ‘risks months of cascading delays’ for Asian countries with large numbers of pending applications.

26 Aug, 2026

US President Donald Trump’s administration has tightened legal immigration through new screening and higher costs. Photo: TNS

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Frustration in China as US freezes green card interviews worldwide

The cancelled appointments mark the latest squeeze in a tightening vice on legal immigration during Donald Trump’s second term.

26 Aug, 2026

For many green card applicants, an interview is the final consular step before they can join a spouse, parent or employer in the US. Photo: Shutterstock

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