WASHINGTON: A Pakistani parliamentary delegation has formally raised concerns with US legislators over Washington’s temporary halt on immigrant visa processing for Pakistani citizens, delegation members said.
The issue was discussed during meetings on Capitol Hill, marking an unusually direct level of parliamentary engagement between Islamabad and Washington.
According to the delegation, the visa pause took effect on January 21 as part of a broader US immigration review affecting nationals from dozens of countries, including Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Nigeria and Russia.
Senator Saleem H. Mandviwalla told reporters in Washington that the suspension had generated significant concern in Pakistan and was conveyed to American lawmakers during the visit. He said the matter had also been discussed earlier with US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker in Islamabad.
While visa interviews are continuing, permanent residence approvals for Pakistani applicants remain on hold under revised screening standards.
Senator Rana Mahmoodul Hassan said the delegation held structured meetings inside the Rayburn House Office Building — the first such official Senate engagement in the complex. He added that both sides agreed to establish regular parliamentary exchanges every two months to strengthen legislative dialogue.
The visit was facilitated by the Pakistan Policy Institute USA.
Pakistani lawmakers said discussions also covered trade, security, immigration and regional stability. The delegation proposed forming a Pakistan Strategic Bipartisan Caucus in the US Congress to create a permanent forum for legislative cooperation.
Another Pakistani delegation is expected to visit the United Nations next month, followed by additional meetings on Capitol Hill.
