The US Department of State said the move is aimed at centralising routine visa services in regional hubs to enhance national security, reduce government spending, and ensure greater consistency in visa screening, vetting and adjudication. The State Department, however, clarified that the change affects only routine visa processing and does not alter the operational status of the embassies and consulates involved. It also emphasised that all diplomatic missions will continue to provide consular services and carry out their regular functions on behalf of the United States. The United States periodically reviews its global diplomatic operations to reallocate resources and streamline consular services. Under the new arrangement, applicants in countries affected by the policy are expected to access routine visa services through designated regional processing hubs, while embassies and consulates continue to provide other diplomatic and consular assistance.