ISLAMABAD — The US Embassy in Islamabad has officially extended the suspension of all visa and consular services across Pakistan until Friday, March 6, 2026. This decision, driven by severe security concerns, follows a weekend of violent anti-US protests triggered by the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
The closure affects the US Embassy in Islamabad as well as the Consulates General in Karachi and Lahore.
BREAKING: US embassy cancels all visa appointments in Pakistan
🔴 LIVE updates: https://t.co/l7MxnZeWOO pic.twitter.com/ogbrWsPRpB
— Al Jazeera Breaking News (@AJENews) March 3, 2026
Reasons for the Extended Shutdown
The suspension was initially set for March 2 but was extended as nationwide unrest intensified.
- Consulate Siege in Karachi: On Sunday, March 1, a mob of hundreds attempted to storm the US Consulate in Karachi. Reports indicate that security forces opened fire to prevent a breach, resulting in at least 9 to 10 deaths and over 35 injuries.
- Nationwide Unrest: Protesters in Islamabad and Lahore have clashed with police near diplomatic enclaves, leading to the imposition of Section 144 (prohibiting gatherings) in several major cities.
- Personnel Safety: US government personnel have been directed to restrict all non-essential movement until the security environment stabilizes.
Security is increased and containers are placed in front of roads leading to the US Consulates in Karachi and Lahore following violent demonstrations across Pakistan against the United States’ and Israel’s attacks on Iran
📸 Asif Hassan, Abdul Majeed, Arif Ali pic.twitter.com/SryDZvKlIh
— AFP News Agency (@AFP) March 3, 2026
Advice for Affected Individuals
The US Mission has issued the following guidance for those with cancelled appointments:
- Automatic Rescheduling: Applicants do not need to take action yet; the Embassy will provide new appointment dates via email once operations resume.
- Fee Validity: Previously paid Machine-Readable Visa (MRV) fees will remain valid for one year from the date of payment.
- Safety for US Nationals: US citizens are urged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), avoid large crowds, and keep a low profile.
Regional Context
The security posture in Pakistan mirrors a broader regional trend. US missions in Jerusalem, Beirut, and Doha have also curtailed services as Iran continues to launch retaliatory strikes against US and Israeli interests in the Gulf.
“The safety of our personnel and the public remains our highest priority. We are monitoring the situation hourly in coordination with Pakistani authorities.” — US Embassy Spokesperson
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