When applying for a U.S. green card from abroad, applicants must visit a U.S. consulate for an interview before their visa can be approved. But what if there’s no U.S. consulate in your country? According to a recent report by the Cato Institute, a libertarian think tank, there are 67 countries where the U.S. does not offer immigrant visa processing. As a result, applicants from these countries have to travel long distances to complete their interviews, adding significant expenses and time to an already lengthy process.
This lack of local consular services affects around 720 million people worldwide. In the last decade, the U.S. issued over 400,000 immigrant visas to people from countries without visa processing, such as Mozambique, Norway, Iraq, and Venezuela. However, the report suggests that these numbers might be higher if the distance barrier weren’t in place.
On average, green card applicants from these countries must travel about 669 miles to attend their interview. For some, the distance is even greater—for instance, applicants from Eritrea need to travel 1,158 miles to Nairobi, Kenya, for a consular interview. From 2012 to 2021, the U.S. issued 7,159 immigrant visas to Eritrean nationals.
In some cases, the U.S. doesn’t have a consulate or embassy at all in the applicant’s country. Twenty-four countries, including North Korea and the State of Palestine, lack any U.S. diplomatic presence. Additionally, 12 other countries, like Iran, Ukraine, and Russia, have seen their U.S. consulates permanently or indefinitely closed. Another 28 countries have consulates that handle only nonimmigrant visas, which are for temporary visits, and do not process immigrant visas.
The Cato Institute report points out that this approach may be reasonable because nonimmigrant visas are more frequently issued than immigrant visas. However, it also notes that excluding immigrant visa services at these locations is challenging to justify since immigrants often have stronger personal or familial connections to the U.S.
Finally, three U.S. embassies—in the Central African Republic, Timor-Leste, and South Sudan—provide either no visa services or very limited nonimmigrant visa processing.
To address these issues, the report suggests that the U.S. consider offering virtual consular interviews or allowing immigrant visa applicants to conduct interviews at consulates that currently only handle nonimmigrant visas. This could make the process easier for those living far from U.S. consular services, potentially increasing access for those who are otherwise deterred by the travel burden.
Impact on Affected Countries and Applicants
Increased Burden on Applicants to Travel to Third Countries for Processing
Recent changes in visa policies have led to increased burdens on applicants from certain countries, particularly those who now must travel to third countries for visa processing. This shift can create logistical challenges, as applicants may need to arrange travel, accommodations, and time off work to complete their applications. For many, this added requirement can be both costly and time-consuming.
Higher Costs and Logistical Difficulties for Applicants
Traveling to a third country for visa processing incurs additional expenses, including airfare, accommodation, and other travel-related costs. For applicants from low-income backgrounds or those with limited financial resources, these expenses can pose significant barriers. Moreover, the uncertainty surrounding appointment availability and processing times can lead to further logistical difficulties, complicating the already complex application process.
Delays in Family Reunification and Employment-Based Immigration
The requirement to process visas in third countries can lead to delays in family reunification and employment-based immigration. Families separated by borders may face extended waiting periods before they can reunite, impacting emotional well-being and stability. Similarly, skilled workers seeking employment opportunities may find their job starts delayed due to the lengthy processing times associated with traveling for visa applications.
Examples of Affected Countries
Notable Countries and Their Neighboring Alternatives for Processing
Several countries have been notably affected by these changes:
- India: Indian applicants may need to travel to neighboring countries like Nepal or Sri Lanka for visa processing, which can be challenging given the distance and costs involved.
- Nigeria: Nigerian travelers might have to go to Ghana or Cameroon for visa applications, creating additional hurdles due to potential visa requirements for entry into those countries.
- Pakistan: Pakistani applicants may find themselves needing to travel to Dubai or other Gulf states for processing, which can be both expensive and logistically complicated.
Impact on Local Communities
The shift in visa processing locations has broader implications for local communities in affected countries. Increased travel requirements can strain local economies as individuals spend money abroad rather than within their communities. Additionally, families facing delays may experience increased stress and anxiety related to separation, impacting overall community well-being.
Workarounds for Applicants
How Applicants Can Apply in Third Countries
- Research Nearby Embassies or Consulates: Applicants should identify the nearest U.S. embassies or consulates in neighboring countries that accept visa applications. This research will help determine the most feasible options for processing.
- Check Eligibility Requirements: Ensure that you meet all eligibility requirements for applying at the chosen location, as some consulates may have specific guidelines or restrictions.
- Schedule Appointments Early: Given the potential for high demand at third-country locations, it is advisable to schedule appointments as early as possible to secure a spot before traveling.
Tips for Navigating the Process in Alternative Locations
- Prepare Documentation Thoroughly: Ensure that all required documents are complete and organized before traveling. This preparation can help minimize issues during the application process.
- Stay Informed About Local Procedures: Each embassy or consulate may have different procedures; therefore, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with specific requirements at the location where you will apply.
- Consider Local Support Services: Look into local immigration consultants or legal services that can assist with navigating the application process in a third country.
Highlight Any Potential Barriers
- Visa Requirements to Enter the Third Country: Before traveling, verify whether you need a visa to enter the third country where you plan to apply. This requirement could add another layer of complexity and cost.
- Language Barriers: Be prepared for potential language barriers when communicating with embassy staff or navigating local services in a third country.
- Cultural Differences: Understanding cultural norms and practices in the host country can facilitate smoother interactions during your application process.
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 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.
