The Department of State's Visa Office has recently confirmed lengthy waiting times for visa stamps. Individuals from certain countries (India, Pakistan, China, Russia, and Middle Eastern countries, in particular), as well as physicians and researchers in certain high-tech fields have reported waiting up to 150 days or more for their background check to clear so that the visa may be issued by the post.
As a result, if travel is required, advance planning and early visa application are critical, since visa applicants are subject to a greater degree of scrutiny than in the past. The DOS has stated that applicants are advised when they apply that there is no time period within which administrative processing must be completed. Some visa cases are processed quickly, but others take weeks or even months.
Certain procedures are required by regulation in processing every visa application. Based on the particular characteristics of the applicant and the application, such procedures may vary. DOS has stated that they are not at liberty to discuss the procedures or processing times for particular cases.Individuals will have to weigh the risk before making travel plans in advance of receiving a visa. Please contact our office prior to making irrevocable travel arrangements to discuss your plans.
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