U.S. Halts Visa Processing in Zimbabwe Amid Government Concerns

The United States government has taken a significant step by suspending the processing of most visas in Zimbabwe, as announced by the U.S. embassy in Harare this week. The pause, prompted by undisclosed concerns with Zimbabwean authorities, is not a travel ban, allowing existing visas to remain valid.

This suspension, effective from August 7, excludes diplomatic and official visas, according to the U.S. State Department. Zimbabwe joins other African nations facing travel constraints under the Trump administration's policy aimed at curbing visa misuse and overstays, with the country reporting a 10.57% overstay rate in 2023.

Harare locals, such as Angella Chirombo, who hoped for their children to pursue education in the U.S., are now caught in uncertainty. Chirombo's son, a prospective student at Michigan State University, awaits his visa interview amidst the halt. Families are now contemplating travel to other Southern African U.S. embassies for visa applications, albeit with financial challenges.

(With inputs from agencies.)