In a major reversal, the U.S. has halted visa restrictions imposed on Pakistan and more than 40 other countries.
According to details, controversial travel bans were introduced by the Trump administration through an executive order signed by Donald Trump on January 20, aimed at protecting the U.S. from terrorism and security threats.
The deadline of March 21 set by the Trump administration passed quietly, and the State Department later confirmed that no new timeline had been determined for implementing the restrictions. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce also stated that no specific date had been set for enforcing the visa restrictions.
According to U.S. media, countries like Pakistan, Russia, and Venezuela had been categorized under different tiers, with Pakistan placed in the “orange list”—meaning applicants were subject to strict scrutiny and detailed interviews.
The U.S. administration faced internal disagreements, legal complexities, and diplomatic pressure over the policy. More than 30 American lawmakers urged President Trump to fully withdraw the controversial travel ban, stating that it harmed the economy and diplomatic ties without significantly enhancing national security.
Pakistani officials have said that negotiations with Washington are ongoing. While no final decision has been made, experts believe that the policy may be reconsidered in light of future U.S. elections or changes in international diplomacy.
It is worth noting that the U.S. has taken a significant U-turn by suspending visa restrictions on over 40 countries, including Pakistan.
