State Department Database Problem Causing Nonimmigrant Visa Delays

The U.S. State Department (which issues U.S. visas at consulates abroad) experienced a serious problem starting July 20 with its database that records and prints visas, following a software upgrade. This computer problem is affecting issuance of nonimmigrant visas as well as immigrant visas (green cards) at U.S. consulates abroad.

The State Department has announced that it is making progress in restoring its nonimmigrant visa database, but the system is not yet functioning at full capacity. According to official estimates, some visa applicants could see delays of up to 10 to 14 days while the agency works to return its systems to full functionality. In addition, between July 20 and 28, U.S. consulates processed about half of the normal number of nonimmigrant visas, creating a backlog of more than 200,000 nonimmigrant visa applications.

The State Department is cautioning travelers that the system will not be operating normally until the backlog is cleared. It could take several weeks or more to fully restore the consular database. Until it is functioning normally, consulates could limit nonimmigrant visa interviews and other services.

If you are a nonimmigrant visa applicant with a need to travel soon, please contact your attorney or paralegal at McCown & Evans to discuss. We would advise that clients avoid applying for U.S. visa stamps at consulates abroad until the State Department’s computer system is repaired, unless visa issuance is absolutely necessary at this time to obtain new work authorization, or to renew an expired visa after urgent business-related travel. In an emergency situation, the State Department has said that its consulates will prioritize cases, but please note that an “emergency” situation may be very strictly interpreted. We predict that visa processing turnaround times abroad for most U.S. visas will likely take longer than normal for at least several weeks, until the backlog is cleared.

McCown & Evans will continue to monitor this situation, and will provide further updates as information is released about U.S. visa processing in the wake of the system outage.

 

Disclaimer

This information is for general use only. You should consult a licensed attorney for legal analysis and advice regarding the specific details of your case