Disrupts bidirectional nucleocytoplasmic transport by interacting with the host RAE1-NUP98 complex (PubMed:33360543, PubMed:33849972). Disrupts cell nuclear import complex formation by tethering karyopherin alpha 2 and karyopherin beta 1 to the membrane (PubMed:32979938). Retention of import factors at the ER/Golgi membrane leads to a loss of transport into the nucleus (By similarity). Prevents STAT1 nuclear translocation in response to interferon signaling, thus blocking the expression of interferon stimulated genes (ISGs) that display multiple antiviral activities (PubMed:33097660). Suppresses IFN-beta production possibly by blocking IRF3 nuclear translocation (PubMed:32979938). Might induce accumulation of host HNRNPA1 (PubMed:33360543). May play a role in viral double membrane vesicles networks to enhance viral replication. May interact with nsp8 (By similarity). Interacts with protein ORF9b (By similarity). Interacts (via C-terminus) with host RAE1 in the NUP98-RAE1 complex (PubMed:35096974); this interaction disrupts the host nuclear import (PubMed:33097660, PubMed:33360543, PubMed:33849972, PubMed:35096974). Interacts with host KPNA2; this interaction may inhibit IFN-beta production by blocking IRF3 nuclear translocation (PubMed:32979938). Localizes to virus-induced vesicular structures called double membrane vesicles. Variant Omicron/BA.1 and BA.2 belong to a lineage first isolated in South Africa (November 2021). Belongs to the coronaviruses accessory protein 6 family.