The Trump administration has paused immigrant visa appointments around the world.

The U.S. State Department said its embassies and consulates are starting a global training programme. It said visa appointments will change to give staff time for the training.

The department did not say how long the pause will last. It also gave few details about the training.

Officials said the training will help visa officers review applications. They will look at whether an applicant may need public benefits in the U.S.

The Financial Times reported that some applicants have already received emails about the changes. Their embassies or consulates have moved their interview dates. Officials will give them new dates later.

The move comes as President Donald Trump continues his wider immigration crackdown.

His administration has increased deportations and revoked some visas and green cards. It has also made some legal immigration processes harder.

Trump says the crackdown will improve security in the U.S.

Some of the administration’s immigration policies have faced court challenges.

Last week, a U.S. judge blocked a policy that stopped immigrant visas for people from 75 countries. The judge said Secretary of State Marco Rubio did not have the legal power to make that decision.

Rights groups have also criticised several immigration policies. They say some of the measures are unfair and could affect free speech and due process.

Trump made stopping illegal immigration a major part of his 2024 campaign. His administration has also made legal immigration harder in some cases.

The State Department has not said when normal visa appointments will return.

Applicants affected by the changes should wait for updates from the U.S. embassy or consulate handling their case.