ISLAMABAD, June 18: To review the security procedures at the US embassy, the consular section will suspend non-immigrant visa interviews from Thursday until further notice, says a press release.

The visa applicants will not be allowed to enter the embassy with briefcases, suitcases or large handbags.

The consular section has asked the applicants to bring only necessary documents for the interview. The documents may be carried in a clear plastic bag, it said.

The US embassy press release said all the applicants with appointments for interview should not come to the embassy and would not be permitted inside. Courier services would still be allowed to deposit passports for initial screening.

The consular section will inform the courier services when appointments for interview resumes. Instructions on how an applicant can reschedule through the courier service.

The press release said immigrant visa interviews and American Citizens Services would continue uninterrupted.

The embassy has apologised for the inconvenience, and has expressed gratitude for cooperation of the applicants.