The COVID-19 pandemic caused a suspension of U.S. visa services worldwide. As restrictions have eased, most U.S. embassies and consulates have resumed certain appointments for immigrant and nonimmigrant visas. Here’s the current status of visa services in different countries:
COUNTRY | VISA SERVICES
Philippines
The U.S. Embassy in Manila has resumed all routine visa services. Some visa types may have longer wait times for interviews compared to before the pandemic. Priority is given to applicants with urgent travel needs and those with specific visa types. Learn more about immigrating from the Philippines.
Mexico
The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico are processing nonimmigrant visas, though wait times may be longer. Applicants may apply for an interview waiver if their visa expired within the last 48 months. Limited routine appointments are available for non-residents. Fees increased as of June 2023. K-1 visa appointments are scheduled in Ciudad Juarez by document completion order. Learn more about immigrating from Mexico.
United Kingdom
The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in the U.K. have resumed routine visa services, but appointment availability remains limited, with a backlog of applicants. The Embassy cannot respond to queries by email or phone. Check for updates here.
Israel
The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem and the Tel Aviv branch offer limited services for immigrant and nonimmigrant visas. Those needing emergency travel can request an expedited nonimmigrant visa. Applicants may also apply at other U.S. embassies if urgent. Visit the Embassy’s website for more details.
Dominican Republic
On September 23, 2024, the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo introduced a new visa appointment system that includes features for visa fee payments, interview scheduling, and document delivery. Visa Application Center (VAC) appointments are now at the SAMBIL Shopping Center. Interviews for all immigrant visa categories and limited work and student visas have resumed, prioritizing tourist visa applicants whose appointments were canceled in 2020. Find out more here.
Thailand
The U.S. Embassy and Consulate General in Thailand have resumed routine visa services. Backlogs may result in longer wait times. Visa renewal by mail is available. Starting November 29, 2023, the CDC requires immigrant visa applicants to receive a COVID-19 vaccine within 12 months of their medical exam. More details are here.
Sudan
Due to ongoing violence, the U.S. Embassy in Khartoum remains closed. Follow State Department guidance if you need to leave Sudan.
Brazil
The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Brazil have resumed routine nonimmigrant visa appointments, and the Consulate in Rio de Janeiro processes all immigrant visas. Wait times remain high for some services. Read more about immigrating from Brazil.
Cuba
The U.S. Embassy in Havana resumed full immigrant visa services in 2023, with some temporary work and exchange program visas available as of August 19, 2024. Certain visa types, such as B-1 and B-2, still require Cubans to visit other embassies. More details are here.
Nigeria
The U.S. Embassy in Nigeria offers all immigrant visa types, with priority for certain cases, such as family members of U.S. citizens. Nonimmigrant visa renewals may be processed without an interview in some cases. Learn more about immigrating from Nigeria.
Colombia
The U.S. Embassy in Bogotá has resumed all routine nonimmigrant and immigrant visa services.
India
The U.S. Consulate in Mumbai has reopened immigrant visa services, while routine nonimmigrant services remain limited across India. Learn more about immigrating from India.
China
Routine consular services have resumed at the U.S. Embassy in Beijing and Consulates in Guangzhou and Shenyang. The Shanghai Consulate only offers emergency services for now.
Ukraine
As of March 2024, the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv resumed immigrant visa services for certain cases, including K-1 and DV visas. Some nonimmigrant visas are also being processed.
Russia
Due to staffing issues, the U.S. Embassy in Moscow suspended immigrant visa services, and appointments are handled at the U.S. Embassy in Warsaw. The U.S. Embassy in Tashkent and the Consulate General in Almaty process certain Russian immigrant visas. Visit the official site for more details.
Canada
The U.S. Embassy and consulates in Canada have resumed most nonimmigrant visa services. Learn about immigrating to the U.S. from Canada.
Vietnam
The U.S. Embassy in Hanoi has resumed all visa services, with a new system in place for visa applications as of September 28, 2024.
Indonesia
The U.S. Embassy in Jakarta offers immigrant visas across categories, and nonimmigrant services have resumed. New security measures implemented on November 1, 2024, restrict large bags, and certain applicants may need prior approval for translator services. Find more details here.
Lebanon
The U.S. Embassy in Beirut is now processing all immigrant visas for Lebanese family members of U.S. citizens. Routine nonimmigrant services are not currently available, but applicants may reapply at other embassies.
Policy Updates
In 2024, several new U.S. immigration policies were introduced that could significantly impact visa services across various categories. These changes are aimed at streamlining processes, addressing backlogs, and adapting to the evolving landscape of immigration needs.
New U.S. Immigration Policies Introduced in 2024
- Family-Sponsored Visa Processing Improvements: The U.S. government has implemented measures to expedite the processing of family-sponsored visas. This includes increasing staffing at consulates and enhancing technology to reduce wait times for interviews and approvals.
- Employment-Based Visa Adjustments: Changes have been made to the employment-based visa categories, particularly for STEM fields, to attract highly skilled workers. This includes expanding the eligibility criteria for H-1B visas and increasing the number of available slots for employment-based green cards.
- Diversity Visa Lottery Updates: The Diversity Visa Lottery program has seen adjustments in eligibility criteria and application processes to ensure a more equitable distribution of visas among underrepresented countries.
- Enhanced Asylum Processing: New policies have been introduced to streamline asylum applications, aiming to reduce backlogs and improve efficiency in processing claims.
These policy updates reflect a commitment to improving the immigration system while addressing the needs of families, employers, and asylum seekers.
Tips for Visa Applicants
Navigating the visa application process can be daunting, especially amid delays and evolving policies. Here are some tips for applicants:
Advice for Scheduling Visa Appointments Amid Delays
- Plan Ahead: Given potential delays, applicants should schedule appointments as early as possible. Check the specific wait times for your local consulate or embassy regularly.
- Use Online Tools: Many embassies offer online appointment scheduling systems that allow you to see available dates and times.
- Be Flexible: If possible, be open to scheduling appointments during less busy times or at different locations where wait times may be shorter.
Documentation Checklist and Preparation Tips for Interviews
- Gather Required Documents: Make sure you have all necessary documents ready before your interview, including:
- Passport
- Visa application forms
- Financial statements
- Proof of ties to your home country (e.g., job letters, property deeds)
- Practice Interview Questions: Familiarize yourself with common interview questions related to your visa type and practice your responses.
- Dress Appropriately: First impressions matter; dress professionally for your interview.
Highlighting Online Resources for Tracking Application Status
- USCIS Online Account: Create an account on the USCIS website to track your application status in real-time.
- Embassy Websites: Most embassies provide online portals where you can check the status of your visa application.
FAQs by Country
Visa applicants often have specific questions based on their country of origin or intended destination. Here are some common queries:
How to Expedite Appointments in India
- Emergency Appointments: Applicants can request expedited appointments for urgent travel needs by providing documentation supporting their request (e.g., medical emergencies or family emergencies).
- Use of Premium Services: Some U.S. embassies in India offer premium services that allow applicants to pay an additional fee for faster processing.
Documents Needed for a B1/B2 Visa in Nigeria
- Required Documentation:
- Completed DS-160 form.
- Valid passport with at least six months validity beyond your planned stay.
- Payment receipt for visa application fee.
- Recent passport-sized photographs.
- Evidence of ties to Nigeria (e.g., employment letter, property ownership) to demonstrate intent to return after visiting the U.S.
- Interview Preparation: Be prepared to explain your travel plans clearly during the visa interview and provide any additional documents requested by the consular officer.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel to the US straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for a Spouse Visa, Green Card, Visitor Visa, or Study Visa, we handle every step from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas has a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need in the US. Call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can assist you.
