VIENTIANE, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- Laos' Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a notice advising Lao citizens to refrain from applying for visas to travel to the United States after Laos was included among 75 countries affected by a suspension of U.S. visa issuance, effective Jan. 21.
According to the ministry's notice issued on Wednesday, the announcement followed a U.S. decision to suspend the issuance of all categories of entry visas to nationals of designated countries, including Laos.
The ministry warned that visa applications submitted during this period will not be processed, and applicants will forfeit their application fees without receiving a visa. Citizens are therefore advised to refrain from applying for U.S. visas until further notice.
However, individuals traveling to the United States on official duties or to attend international conferences by invitation may continue to do so under existing arrangements. ■
