EXCLUSIVE: US resumes immigrant visa processing for Hungary, Poland as pause remains elsewhere - Reuters

The United States has restarted the processing of immigrant visas for applicants from Hungary and Poland, ending a temporary suspension that had been in place for those two countries. The resumption applies specifically to the immigrant visa categories, allowing eligible individuals to continue their applications toward permanent residence in the United States.

The pause in visa processing remains in effect for other nations, meaning that applicants from those countries continue to experience a halt in the adjudication of their immigrant visa petitions. No indication has been given that the broader suspension will be lifted in the near term.

The decision comes amid an administration that has consistently emphasized tighter controls on both illegal and legal migration. Since taking office, the president has campaigned against illegal immigration while also pursuing policies aimed at reducing the overall flow of lawful migrants into the United States.

Officials have not provided a clear explanation for why Hungary and Poland were selected for the early reinstatement of visa processing. The criteria or considerations that led to the differentiated treatment of these two European allies have not been disclosed.

The resumption of processing for Hungary and Poland is expected to allow pending cases to move forward, while applicants from other countries will continue to await further guidance on when their visa petitions may be reconsidered.