Several hurdles are involved in getting a U.S. visa, and the wait times have increased over the past few years for many visa categories. For several reasons such as delays from the COVID-19 pandemic and an increasing backlog of applications. However, there are ways that you can accelerate your visa process and make yourself a more quick-decision candidate. Here are 5 tips that we will share with you on how to speed up your visa application and cut down the wait time.
We at Law and Visas know you want your visa quickly. Our team of professionals will be there to assist you at all times. We provide one-on-one attention to every application – whether for a green card, work visa, or another immigration document. Learn more about how we can help you avoid common mistakes when it comes to your immigration.
1. Get Applying Today to Slay the Backlog.
The first visa process speed tip you’ve heard about is probably the obvious one, but it’s a big one: Apply early. The earlier you apply, the faster it gets reviewed. Immigration to the United States is still being phased out following the pandemic and there are still a lot of cases waiting. If you don’t apply now, chances are you’ll wait a little while for your visa to come through.
When you apply as early as possible, you get it in line first. Getting your forms and supporting documents in order as early as possible can go a long way. We at Law and Visas will get all the documentation done and will take you step by step through the whole process so that you do not miss out on any step. Don’t wait—start your application today!
2. Fill Out an Application with Completeness the First Time.
A factor in getting your visa processed faster is having an application that is fully, properly, and ready. An application that is comprehensive and error-free is more likely to go through quickly.
Many visa applications require lots of research, detail, and documentation. If your application goes wrong — if you’ve filed the wrong fees, filled in the wrong forms, or have documents that they don’t have — then your application may be delayed or rejected. You can also get an RFE (Request for Evidence) from USCIS in case anything goes wrong. RFE Response: It will take months for an RFE response and the delay of your visa to be removed.
Don’t wait for RFEs or delays, just make sure your application is complete with all information and documents. Verify everything before sending it in. Law and Visas offer dedicated support so that you get an excellent, complete application the first time around and make sure you do not fall for the trap.
3. Use Premium Processing (When Available)
If there are some types of visas you can speed up the process with premium processing. It’s a process you can use, provided by USCIS, to get certain immigration applications expedited for a fee. Premium processing guarantees an answer within 15 calendar days, which is a huge time-saver if you need a fast answer.
However, not all visa types are supported by premium processing. You usually have it for certain work-based visas and nonimmigrant visas. For the case of your visa, you would need to fill in a special form and shell out the premium processing fee. It costs more than standard application fees but if the processing time is quick it can be worth it for those or companies who need fast decisions.
If you are interested in premium processing on your visa, ask USCIS if it is available for your visa type. For more information on premium processing and application process, see USCIS premium processing guide.
4. Get an Expedite If There’s a Last Minute Event.
You can ask for an expedited visa process in certain circumstances if your reason is urgent or very good. In emergencies and special situations:
Major medical emergency with a short flight time.
Death in a close family.
Cost loss to the company or individual in the form of delayed production.
Humanitarian, emergency reasons like lack of safety.
Fast-track processing is based on a request, USCIS is the final authority on whether or not to grant the request. If you think that your case is a candidate for expedited processing, you can make an expedited request with USCIS. Also, make sure to show them evidence that you are in an urgent situation to support the request. If granted, this can expedite the visa application process for you.
You can discuss with Law and Visas to understand if you qualify for expedited processing and proceed to file an expedited request.
5. Contact Your U.S. Representative for Help Call 1-800-367-2236 Click here to go to our website
You could also try to have your visa processed a bit faster by getting help from your U.S. Congressman. Congressmen can also ask questions of USCIS for you and resolve certain problems related to your immigration application (processing issues, lost documents).
Reps cannot solve all the cases directly, but they can make you aware of your application and any delays that may be holding you up. If your application is lagging or having problems, call your rep and ask for help. Agents can represent you, if you’re able to get your case heard, and possibly even be able to help move the case forward.
For contacting your U.S. representative regarding your visa application, go to their website for contact information and submission of an inquiry.
Visa application can be time-consuming and overwhelming but there are a few things you can do to speed it up. Early application, accurate and completed application, premium processing, expedited processing when necessary, requesting a letter from your US representative: these are all ways to have a higher chance of getting your visa faster.
The team at Law and Visas can help you deal with the complicated immigration system. Our experts are with you every step of the way, be it a green card, work visa, or citizenship. We provide you with dedicated assistance so your app is as robust as possible and you don’t get pushed or miss an update.
Visit Law and Visas today to get started with a fast and simple visa application.
