India, Aug. 27 -- US embassies and consulates worldwide began postponing or rescheduling interview appointments on Wednesday, causing fresh uncertainty for immigrant visa applicants seeking to move permanently to the country.

The US State Department has attributed the disruption to a global training programme for consular officers. The exercise is intended to strengthen the way visa applications are reviewed, with particular attention being given to whether applicants could become a "public charge" after entering the country.

Applicants who had already received interview dates have reportedly been notified that their appointments are being moved. New dates are expected to be issued, but the US State Department has not provided a definit...