US visa appointment suspension won't affect Peruvian students, says former foreign minister

The United States has temporarily suspended appointments for immigrant visas at its embassies and consulates worldwide, a move that has prompted questions about its broader implications.

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the recent measure by the North American government has a very specific scope and would not affect the plans of young people who travel each year from Peru to pursue university studies.

However, former Peruvian Foreign Minister Hugo de Zela has stated that the measure will not impact Peruvian students aspiring to study in the U.S. In an interview with RPP Noticias, De Zela explained that the U.S. government's decision is narrowly focused on immigrant visas, which are intended for individuals seeking permanent residency.

De Zela elaborated that this policy is linked to a process of training consular officials to conduct more in-depth reviews of each case, aiming to prevent immigrants from becoming a burden on the government. He emphasized that the new policy does not apply to those seeking visas for tourism, business, or study. Student visas, in particular, have distinct requirements, including admission and enrollment at an educational institution and proof of sufficient financial resources.

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the U.S. government's decision is narrowly focused on immigrant visas, which are intended for individuals seeking permanent residency.

This suspension of immigrant visa appointments follows a previous announcement by the Trump administration to revoke up to 200,000 tourist or business visas granted to individuals who entered the U.S. as short-term visitors and subsequently sought asylum. This review targets B1 and B2 visas issued between 2016 and 2026, which are for temporary travel for business or tourism and do not permit establishing residency in the country. The Department of State considers seeking asylum after entering on a visitor visa as a potential misuse of the permit.

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this policy does not apply to those seeking visas for tourism, business, or study. Student visas, in particular, have distinct requirements, including admission and enrollment at an educational institution and proof of sufficient financial resources.