Key Information for HR and Global Mobility Teams

Recent developments in the Middle East have significantly disrupted U.S. consular services across the region. Following a security alert issued by U.S. Department of State (DOS)  on February 28, 2026, several U.S. embassies have closed temporarily, suspended routine services, or limited operations to emergency assistance only.

For HR and Global Mobility professionals, these developments will affect employee visa processing timelines and relocation schedules for employees working in or traveling through the region.

Due to ongoing security concerns, consular services, including visa interviews, passport services, and other routine appointments, have been suspended or limited at many posts across the region. In several locations, embassy personnel have been instructed to shelter in place, which further restricts normal operations.

Current Status of Consular Operations (March 7, 2026)

Below is a summary of the current operational status at selected posts.

Bahrain

The U.S. Embassy in Bahrain closed on March 1, 2026, and remains closed until further notice. Embassy personnel are under shelter-in-place orders.

Cyprus

All routine visa and U.S. citizen services have been suspended at the U.S. Embassy in Nicosia due to security concerns.

Iraq

All consular operations have been suspended, and embassy personnel remain under shelter-in-place orders.

Israel

The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem has suspended all consular services, and operations at the embassy branch office in Tel Aviv are also paused through at least mid-March.

Jordan

The U.S. Embassy in Amman remains open; however, American Citizen Services appointments have been canceled, and embassy personnel have been instructed to shelter in place.

Kuwait

All consular services at the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait have been suspended until further notice.

Lebanon

Routine consular services remain suspended. Limited emergency passport services have resumed at the U.S. Embassy in Beirut.

Qatar

Routine consular appointments at the U.S. Embassy in Qatar have been canceled while embassy personnel remain under shelter-in-place orders.

Saudi Arabia

Routine consular services across all U.S. diplomatic posts in Saudi Arabia are currently suspended.

United Arab Emirates

Routine consular services are suspended in the UAE due to the regional security situation.

Considerations for Employers

These disruptions create significant challenges for employers managing international assignments, as visa processing delays or cancellations affect start dates, relocation timelines, and project staffing. Employers with visa processing tied to any of the affected posts should consider the following:

• Expect visa interview cancellations and delays in visa issuance and passport return.
• Monitor embassy-specific announcements, as each consular post determines its operational status.
• Plan for contingencies, including delayed start dates or alternative immigration strategies where feasible.

Because the situation remains fluid, HR and mobility teams should continue monitoring official embassy announcements and U.S. government updates for the most current information regarding consular operations.

How Meltzer Hellrung Can Help

Meltzer Hellrung will continue to monitor developments affecting U.S. consular operations in the Middle East and their potential impact on visa processing and international mobility. Our team is available to assess case-specific effects and advise on possible contingency strategies.

Please contact your Meltzer Hellrung attorney with any questions.

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