State Department Shuffles Travel Approval Powers to Deputy
Published Date: 5/7/2026
Notice
Summary
The Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs passed on some important travel decision powers to the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary starting February 10, 2026. This means certain travel approvals for foreign visitors that protect U.S. interests can now be handled faster and more flexibly. Key leaders in the State Department still keep their authority, so nothing else changes about who can make big calls.
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