Presidential Proclamation 10998 on "Restricting and Limiting the Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the Security of the United States," became effective on January 1, 2026, which restricts the entry of nationals of Afghanistan. Visa applicants who are subject to Presidential Proclamation 10998 may still submit visa applications and schedule interviews, but they may be ineligible for visa issuance or admission to the United States.

• Deadline to Apply for Chief of Mission (COM) Approval = December 31, 2025
• Deadline to submit all supporting documentation for your COM approval application, including any additional documentation requested by the Department = June 5, 2026. These deadlines do not apply to visa processing steps after receiving COM approval.