US Embassy in Pakistan suspends all visa and consular services after violent protests
The US diplomatic mission in Pakistan announced the cancellation of all immigrant and non-immigrant visa interviews as well as services for US citizens on Monday, March 2, 2026, due to security concerns.
The decision followed violent protests outside some US diplomatic facilities in Islamabad, Karachi and Lahore. Protesters gathered in response to US attacks on Iran-related targets and in some cases attempted to breach security barriers. Police used tear gas to disperse crowds.
An official statement said all US mission staff will face movement restrictions until further notice, and US citizens in Pakistan were advised to avoid large gatherings and follow official alerts.
Individuals whose visa interviews or consular services were canceled will be notified by email on rescheduling, though no timeline for resuming services has been set. Officials noted that visa processing has faced long delays previously.
Experts warned that the suspension could seriously disrupt travel plans, business projects and migration matters. The US Embassy urged citizens to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for urgent alerts.
At least 10 protesters were killed during an assault on the US consulate in Karachi. Reuters, citing two US officials, reported that US Navy personnel fired on demonstrators as they breached the outer wall on Sunday amid widespread protests following the killing of an Iranian leader in attacks on the country.
US officials said it remains unclear whether shots from Marine guards hit anyone or caused fatalities, and whether other security forces, including private guards or local police, also fired. A Sindh provincial government spokesperson said "security forces" opened fire but provided no details. Witnesses reported hearing gunfire and tear gas near the consulate.
Pakistan's government banned large gatherings nationwide after protests spread. Reports indicated 26 total deaths across cities. Security has been heightened around US diplomatic sites in Islamabad, Lahore and Peshawar, with roads to the Karachi consulate closed. The US State Department has not commented officially.
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