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H1B Visa Stamping 221(g) Tracker
Not everyone are lucky to get H1B visa stamping at first attempt…Some of you might have got 221(g) query from the Visa Consular officer ( blue, white, yellow) asking to submit documents. The most frustrating thing about 221(g) blue form is that there is no way to track your application…You just have to wait….it can be frustrating to wait…This page is meant to help others get an idea about processing times and how long does it take to process a 221(g) issued H1B case…If you were ever given 221(g), please share your details to help others get an idea. You may check out below articles as well.
- 6 tips from H1B stamping – 221(g) experience
- Drop Box submission process – 221(g) – No Box
- Chennai H1B visa – 221(g) stamping experience
To update, Click link : H1B visa 221(g) Tracker
{ 2372 comments… read them below or add one }
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Hello,
I applied for H1B Visa on Jan-2011, and I get 221(g) Administration Processing.
I get the following email from the US Embassy on June-2013, saying :
” Dear Sir ,
We are sorry to inform you that your application has expired, so you have re apply with a new DS160 and appointment.
Cordially,
Consular Team ”
Would you please tell me: what this email means, and what to do next,
Thank you for your help.
A.Med,
When did your petition expired or expires? When did you submit documents against your 221g?
Thank you for your kind reply,
Actually I don’t know when my H1B Visa application was expired,
I didn’t get explanation in the email that I get on June-2013.
I get 221g on Jan-2013 , and then I submtited additional documents on March 2011.
Regards
A.Med
Sorry
I get 221g on Jan-2011 , and then I submitted additional documents on March 2011.
A.Med,
By petition I am referring to your 797. It should have the expiration date on it.
Hi,
I understand your question now,
My I-797 will expire on December 14, 2013, I still have 6 months
Shall I re-apply for the 2nd time, by filling DS 160 online forms, and an appointment for VISA interview.
What Document I should provide ? I already submitted all required after my first Visa interview on Jan-2011 .
Is it possible to avoid 221g thistime, or it could be same scenario again.
Thank you for your help.
A.Med,
You can appear for stamping again, but chances are that it will also run into similar issues. However, I don’t see any other alternates as stamping is mandatory.
Is your employer still willing to hire you on H-1? You will need to carry more recent documents when appearing for the interview. Maybe the employer can file for extension petition (at most 6 months prior to current 797 expiration date) and you then appear for stamping, so that petition doesn’t expire while case is being processed.
Hi,
My I-797 will expire on December 14, 2013, I still have 6 months
Shall I re-apply for the 2nd time, by filling DS 160 online forms, and schedule an appointment for VISA interview.
What Document I should provide ? I already submitted all required documents after my first Visa interview on Jan-2011 .
Is it possible to avoid 221g this time, or it could be same scenario again.
Thank you for your help.
Hello Everyone,
Anybody who is waiting response from US-Emabsy(New Delhi) since more than 4 months for fressh h1B admin processing clearance?
Please share!
Hello RM Khan,
I am waiting on New Delhi Embassy since March 8th. Its Almost 3 months, mine is H1B Extension and under Admin processing.
Manu
I am waiting since March 8th Mumbai embassy for 221g blue form approval
I’m also waiting from New Delhi consulate since April 2013 (H1B transfer, 221g White; Passport retained, No further documents/information asked so far). Fingers and leg crossed!
Hi Saurabh
I had been to Chennai consulate for stamping on 16th Feb,2012 and in receipt of 221 g PINK SLIP bearing common muslim name. VO collected my passport and told me to check with website. While waiting, I recalled my passport as it was expiring in December,2012 for extension and now filed for H1-Cap exempt application in non-premium.Till date I have not heard back from consulate. I was wondering what are the options I can consider here.
When my employer(BEP status) reached out to consulate – they provided the same reply that my case is being worked on.Also as mentioned earlier – when I check at CEAC website – https://ceac.state.gov.
I found the last updated date as 25th July,2012 – Does it mean that my case has been parked .
Appreciate your guidance/advice.
Khan,
Unfortunately there is no set processing time. From the status message itself it is difficult to know what’s happening in the background.
You can either continue to wait or appear for another stamping when your extended petition gets approved (although there is a possibility it will also run into similar issues, but worth a try).
Thanks Saurabh for the insights.
I was wondering why is the CEAC website lists as last update date as 25th July,2013. Is there any way to check /follow up.
Appreciate again your guidance/help/advice.
Khan,
Don’t know why it is that date. It could be something was updated in your file on that date, or may be they have a batch process which updated several applications. Can’t say w/ surety.
Saurabh – Just a correction it shows up as 25th July,2012.
Any help is greatly appreciated.
Thanks Saurabh. The last updated date being 25th July,2012 , with update nearing year too.. Is there any way to seek clarification.
Thoughts?
Khan,
In some scenarios it remains pending for more than a year. Unfortunately, there is no other way to seek clarification or follow-up or expedite.
Hi Saurabh, My case status now shows “Issued”. However, I have not received any info on the status of the passport. Originally I opted for passport pick-up at the US consulate. How do I know if the passport is ready and when to pick-up. Do I receive an email regarding the passport status? Thank you very much. This blog is awesome and very useful..!!!
A quick recap:
Visa interview date: 29 April 13 (221g white; email received on the same day)
Docs submitted on: 02 May 13
Case status changed on 30 May 13 to “Issued”
Waiting to hear abt the passport status.
Thank you all for sharing your valuable experience here. Good luck for all of those who are going through this trouble.
Hello Vivek,
May I know in which consulate you had your interview.
Manu
Hi Manu, I went to Hyd.
Vivek,
They usually sent a SMS and email when the passport is ready to be picked-up. Wait for few days to see if such a notification is received or not.
Thanks Saurabh,
Vivek.
Hi Saurabh, If the status changed to Issued, does it mean the visa is approved. I am on O1 visa with direct employer and all my documents are legit.
Thank you,
Vivek.
Vivek,
Yes, issued means approved. However, I don’t know how soon passport is ready for pick-up once that message appears.
Saurabh,
1st h1b Interview in mumbai on 9th Feb 2011, VO issued 221g yellow without any documents & then my petition was send back to USCIS for revoke & review
USCIS reaffirmed it in April 2012 & i rec’d i797c from employer & attended 2nd interview in mumbai on 17th Sept 2012 but VO didn’t issued any 221g nor any memo & gave my passport back & told me Embassy will approach me
Rec’d 221g green by email in March 2013 & was asked to submit documents
which i submitted in May 2013
Checked with customersupport dept rec’d email
“However, your case is currently on hold under Section 221(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) pending the officer’s review. Section 221(g) of the INA prohibits the issuance of a visa to an individual whose application is incomplete or inconclusive, or whose eligibility has not been firmly established. Please be assured that we will contact you as soon as the processing will complete.”
Will VO issue or will deny H1B Visa ???
Waiting for ur kind feedback …
Anand,
That looks like a long ordeal. However, it is still not possible to say whether they will approve it or deny it. You may continue to wait for them to complete the processing, but I think your petition is also to expire. So even if the visa is issued, it will be valid until petition expiration date. Why don’t you look for another employer who has better chances of getting approval during stamping. Based on your previous petition, you are also eligible for cap-exempt petition.
Hello Saurabh,
I appeared for H1B extension visa stamping interview on 8th March. Received 221g and was asked to submit documents related to employer which I submitted on 12th March.
My case is showing admin processing since 8th March. On 9th April the status update date changed but status remained same.
I have finished my Master’s from USA and I am working in states since 2009.
My employer called DOS and asked for my status, they informed that it is under admin processing with new delhi consulate.
Please suggest if there is any way to expedite this or how long should I expect it will take to resolve.
Thanks,
Manu
Manu,
Unfortunately, there is no set waiting time. It can take few weeks or as much as several months. There is not much one can to expedite the processing.
Hi Saurabh,
I heard from one of my friend that employer/attorney can contact senator to look at the 221g case. could you please provide more information on this option. I have been waiting queue since last 3 months now. Please guide me.
Thanks,
Tushar
Tushar,
It was more helpful when it was still new and not everyone knew about it. Now it has been used so much, that DHS has stopped expediting the cases on its basis.
Still your senator can try, but chances are that they will receive a standard reply from USCIS.
Hi Saurabh, can I contact them or my employer should contact them. Please guide me through this process. Thanks,Tushar
Tushar,
If you were ever in US, then you can contact them and provide more details like your address, city etc. If not, let your employer contact them.
There is no standard process. Find the senator for your area, go to their website and contact them.
Hi Saurabh, I have in US since last 3+ year and in same state. so will try this option as well. Is there any negative effects of doing this? just want to make sure that I am not triggering any wrong button there.
Tushar,
Either it will help you or will do nothing; but it will not impact the case adversely.
Hello Tushar,
Just want to share my experience about senator. My employer contacted local senator. Senator checked with DOS. After a week they replied me same what I see on CEAC website.
Manu
Thanks Manu for sharing your experience here.
I have been informed that someone contacted my client for h1b visa application ( I am in EVC model) for my roles/responsibilities and work details last week and we have sent the same to them. My client is supporting with this. ask was for below details.
1) Job description with duties
2) Project description of the task to which he has been assigned.
Saurabh, any thoughts on this action. This happened after 100 days. still no update on case update date on ceac site.
Hi Saurabh , any thoughts on my last post..
Tushar,
This means they are making progress in your case. The feedback will now be submitted to the consulate who will then issue the final judgment. Again, no timelines for all this.
Hello Everyone,
My H1B visa application is in administrative process since last 1 1/2 year.I just checked the status on CEAC website update and its showing below status.what does it mean “NO STATUS” on CEAC website?Please advice me.
U.S. Department of State
NONIMMIGRANT VISA APPLICATION
No Status
Application ID or Case Number: AAXXXXXXXX
Case Creation Date: 01-Oct-2011
Please contact the U.S. Consular office you believe is responsible for processing your visa application.
For more information, please visit U.S. Consulate General Toronto.
krishna,
y don’t u followup with embassy was there any 221g issued along with checklist.
If issued did u submit the documents along with 221g ??
Then followup with the ustraveldocs.com for support
hope it works out ..
Anand,
Toronto US consulate replied me ,they are no longer responsible for application sent back to file t USCIS for further review.They already requested docs and i submitted them within 10 days of interview.Dont know what does status mean now?
Hello,
Hi, have a similar case, my H1B status on CEAC website shows also ” NO STATUS….Please contact the U.S. Consular office you believe is responsible for processing your visa application.”
Any idea whats going on, and how long it will take?
Regards
Dear all,
This is to inform you that my admin processing is completed and received passport with visa stamped.
Thanks All for support.
Thanks
Muhammad Hafeez,
Congrats! Is it possible for you to provide a quick summary of your visa journey so that it helps others who are still waiting.
Thanks!
Yes Sure,
I got I797 approved form on 1 October 2012.
Received all physical copies of docs on 5th of November 2012.
Applied for visa stamp on 14th November 2012 with family(H4).
after a along wait got visa stamped on 12th May 2013.
I have common Muslim name, first time H1b and first time traveling abroad.
Thanks Suarbh and team, This blog has helped a-lot to release frustration.
Thanks Muhammad Hafeez. So your ordeal went on for 6-7 months. Nice that it has finally ended.
Have a safe trip to US!
Hi Hafeez,
Congrats.
I have also a common muslim name.
I attended the interview on 12th Dec 2012 in New Delhi.
Waiting for update.
Please be in touch with me @er.afzaalkhan@gmail.com
Thanks
Hi Suarabh and others,
I had applied for my J-1 visa in US consulate, Sydney on March 14, 2013. The consulate officer kept my passport after giving out the white slip 221G form. As it it has been 60 days I called US consulate today and requested my passport back. I was told that if I withdraw my passport my visa (which has been under administrative processing) will be kept on hold till I return my passport…ANY CLUE??
Sha,
Sorry for the late response. Not sure what happened to your case. Did you withdraw the passport?
Hi Saurabh, I was interviewed for B1/B2 on 18-Mar. I got 221(g) refusal. I submitted all information/ documents on 20-Mar. I am visiting embassy website for 221(g) daily as I am supposed to travel to USA for business in early June. How much time it usually takes for embassy to investigate information reach decision? The response will be appreciated.
Puru,
There is no set processing time. At times, it can take few weeks while other times it can take several months. There is not much you can do here except wait.
Did anyone go to the Kolkata Consulate recently for H1B Stamping for a midsize company? I’m not getting enough feedback on Kolkata Consulate on any of the forum. Are they issuing 221(g) for everyone?
H1BSeeker12,
They don’t issue it to just everyone. It’s case by case basis. No one can say concretely whether you will receive 221g or not. A better indicator will be other employees in your company who went for stamping recently.
Hi Suarabh and others,
I am seeing my case update date is changing while checking on below link. I have received a call from consulate today they need my previous passport detail, i have sent them right away and waiting.
its still showing admin processing but case update changed only.
https://ceac.state.gov.
any idea whats going on with my case or how long it will take?
thanks
M.Hafeez
Muhammad Hafeez,
They contacting you is a good sign as it indicates that they are working on the case (if they maintain a backlog). However, it provides no more useful information on how much longer it will still take. Nothing else you can do except continue to wait.
Good luck!
Hi Mr. Saurabh,
My passport is pending with US Embassy for almost one year now, regarding H1B visa stamping.Almost every week I am reminding them about status. This time I wrote that if they dont want to issue me H1B visa, please return my passport without stamping, as I have lost the charm.
They replied , please wait, we apologize for the inconvenience caused to you. The matter has been escalated and as soon as we hear from the counsulate, we shall inform you.
What does it mean?
Is there any other case in your knowledge pending for one year or more?
An early reply is solicited please.
Manish Rawat,
Do you know if the response is from their standard support team or the consulate itself? I haven’t seen instances in the past when it was escalated and got expedited. Yes, there are cases which have been pending for more than a year.
Hello RM Khan,
No update yet. Only sterio type reply they are communicating that the matter under admn.processing and as soon as they hear from USCIS, they will communicate with me.
In fact I have lost charm and I wish to get my passport back even without stamping.
Shall wait for few weeks then submit a written application to return my passport.
Hello Manish & Lucifer….
Is there any update on your case.My case is still same….
Thanks!!
No updates yet
Hi Saurabh,
Just to overview on my case which i am discussing since JAN 2012, I applied for H1b on 23rd JAN 2012 and got 221g from Mumbai consulate and they sent my petition for reaffirm to USCIS. My employer has got I797 C Notice of application stating that it is ‘Approval Notice’ which was issued on 6th march 2013. It is almost two months now and still i did not hear anything from Mumbai consulate. As you said they will probably contact me for next interview but I am still waiting. I already email to Mumbai consulate and they were saying you will get post from Mumbai consulate.
Would you please let me know usually how much time it will take? what should i have to do next?
Sky
Sky,
Try contacting Mumbai consulate again. Once they have received the intimation from USCIS they will ask for another round of interview. Until then there is not much you can do. Also, get the 797C from your employer as it will be required during next interview.
Hi Saurabh,
I contact them and got the same answer stating that
“With regards to your query, we would like to inform you that, as per the response given to you vied the case number. the post(Embassy/Consulate) will contact you once they receive the affirmed petition.
what should i do next?
sky
Sky,
There is nothing else that can be done from your end. Maybe contact them again after few days. These things can take some time, so remain optimistic and patient.
Hello,
I have been in the US from 1999 to 2005 using 2 H1B Petitions. I have 2 daughters born in the US.
I came back to Algeria for some work in Africa, then I filled a new H1B, I get my new Work permit & my wife H4 from USCIS on Dec-2010.
I’ve attended my VISA interview on Jan-2011 at the US embassy in Algeria. and then I get my 221g / Admin processing, I submitted additional Documents including my previous US-VISA, the company documents and my family Documents.
Few weeks later, They called my employer in the US for some questions, and since then, I’m still waiting. I’m checking my Visa Status at ceac.state.gov, it still showing “Application receipt pending”.
My H1B-petition will expire on Dec-2013. Would you please advise me, My Computer projects are suspended because of this issue…
Thank you.
Daho,
These days getting 221g has become very common problem in h1b stamping. It also depends on color of 221g slip. You can google the processing time for each color. But if you are employed with a genuine company then you should be fine otherwise you can expect longer waiting times. Many of my friends have been through this situation. Some got through in 2 weeks and some took 7 months. Wish you luck !!
Thank your for your reply
just for your info, I get my 221g on Jan-2011 (white color) showing this message “Please provide copies of the corporate organizational documents for your company, along with the Company’s tax documents and emplyee payroll records since inception”.
I submitted all documents on March-2011, but the process took too much time (more than 2 years with Visa status: Peding), is this normal?
Regards
Daho,
I wont say this is normal. But for some reason they are just stretching the time. As said before if your company and your job all are genuine then you should be fine. Just need patience !
Daho,
Ask your attorney in US to follow up on the case. 2 year wait is ridiculous.
I have a Question and would be glad if someone can answer that ! I filed for H1B through Employer A for H1b FY2012 . My H1B was approved but i got 221 G in stamping. Employer A withdrew my petition. Is it possible to file a new LCA through Employer B in Cap exempt category and get stamping ? Or is it that i have to go for new Visa ? If someone who has this experience or who has the knowledge on this , please advise . Thanks
Karthikeyan p,
LCA is not cap-exempt but I-129 is. So B can file for a LCA and then a cap-exempt H-1 petition. You will need at least the receipt number of A’s petition for this.
Hi Saurabh ,
Many thanks for the explanation .
So B can file for a LCA : How much long this will take .. Any idea
then a cap-exempt H-1 petition. : How much long this will take .. ANy idea
Thanks in Advanced for your valuable information !
With Regards,
Karthik
karthikeyan,
LCA takes around 10 days.
H-1 petition takes 2-6 months under regular processing, and 15 calendar days under PP. If RFE is issued then it can take longer.
Hi Saurabh,
Thanks a ton for all the inputs you gave spending your time . Cheers
With Regards,
Karthik
Hi RM Khan,
I attend H1b Visa internew at New Delhi counsalte.
The brief of my case is as under:-
.
1. First H1b visa interview at New Delhi consulate on 4th March 2011 and issued 221(g) slip
2. Submitted required documents on 5th April 2011.
3. H1b Visa denied on 1st Nov.2011 .
4. Case was reviewed and approval reaffired on 23rd April 2012.
5, Second H1b visa interview at New Delhi consulate on 1st June 2012, passport retained and again 221(g) slip issued.
6. Required doucments submitted on 26th June 2012.
Passport No.G3081900, Receipt No.EAC1017551048 dated June 14, 2010.
Validity of I-797 01/21/2011 to 09/30/2013.
Almost every week I am sending mails ,to the US embassy and every time they are saying that my case is under process.
Hi Manish,
Thanks for sharing details.
My case is for fresh h1b. Received RFE in Nov 2012 and got approved in Dec 2012.
VO did not ask so many questions.It looks like he is not interetsted. Just asked my passport and name then started to typing mean while he asked 4 questions(Your Name, Compnay name, Location and client) that’s it.Finally, issued a white slip and no docs asked. you can reach me rafat.sayeed at gmail
Interview date:- 06 Feb 203
Thanks!
Hello Saurabh,
Could you please help me out? How much long should I wait or there is no hope.
I am working with a good MNC (IT Company). My colleagues who are also working for same client(Topmost USA based Pharma Company) got 221(g) but got cleared within 2-3 weeks. I am waiting since 06 Feb 2013.
Thanks a lot in advance!!!
RM Khan,
From your name I suppose you have a common muslim name. If the administrative processing was related to that, then it can take longer than normal. There is no set time, but worst case is several months.
Thank you very much Saurabh …..
Now, It’s going to complete 3 months…Based on your experience do you have any wild guess. The H1B issued on the name of “Shaheed Ahmad” not RK Khan. So, name issue is resolved now
.
At the time of interview I have been told to wait only few weeks .Is there any way to do the follow up as they mentioned on the official web site there is 60 days timeframe.
Waiting to hear from you.
Thanks !!!!
RM Khan,
There is no set processing time. If more than 60 days have elapsed, then may be your attorney in US can follow-up on the case. But be prepared that they will not provide anything more meaningful than what you already know.
Thank you very much Saurabh for your explanation ……you are doing a very great job. I truly appreciate it!!!
Hello Manish,
Did you get your VISA? There is no update on my case
Thanks!
Hi Saurabh,
I am a Ph.D working in biological research. I was in US on J1 visa from 2006 till 2011 doing post doctoral training in CA. I visited India only once during my J1 period & got stamped. IN 2011 while in US, I changed my employer & got H1b visa and work as Scientist. I fall under the H1b cap-exempt category. Now I came to India in 2013 on vacation & had to get a stamp. I attended fingerprinting on March 21st, 2013 & interview on March 25th, 2013 where in my case was out under 221g at Hyderabad US Consulate. I was asked to submit the questionnaire electronically, which I did the within 2 days of interview. The receipt email of the questionnaire was confusing & I assumed that I have to submit additional documents at VFS.So I went the very next day to submit the documents. At the VFS, I was told that I do not need to submit anything other than the electronic questionnaire. But I insisted & submitted the paper documents. I am waiting for the visa till date. Till yesterday the case was showing update as of March 25th, 2013, but today it shows case updated April 17th, 2013, under Admin Processing. Please guide me if there is anything from my end that I could do. My employer has put me on administrative lave of absence as I ran out of my PTOs & I have urgent work to finish which they are waiting for me. I cannot do it from India as I work in a lab.
I did change my last name due to marriage while in US. The name change reflects on the SSN & passport.
Incidentally, the same consular as mine, approved my husband’s O1 visa for working in research in CA !
I have my return flights booked & am changing it to every next week, waiting for the visa & paying the airlines the fine of date change.
Please guide & help.
Thanks,
Pallavi.
My Passport was kept by the consular at the interview.
Pallavi.
Pallavi G,
Most likely your case triggered TAL (technology alert list). Once you submit the documents, they will do a background check. Normally these are resolved in 3-8 weeks.
I know someone who received this in Delhi last year (she works as a research associate in a Big Pharma) and her case took 3 weeks. There is nothing much you can do at this time, except to wait for them to complete the processing.
Hello Saurabh,
So changed the flights to Monday. But at the end, at least it is done.
Finally a sigh of relief…my status showed ‘Issued’ today afternoon….a month after the visa interview. I went to the OFC site to get the passport, but was not ready. Then in the evening today I got an email that the documents & passport is ready for pick-up. Unfortunately, since it is Friday today & the post will be closed for passport delivery, I will not be able to collect it until Monday & I had a flight for Sunday
One thing that I noticed is that, 2 days before my status showed issued, I started getting new status update dates which was not moving at all till that time. So if you see change in your case status update, that might be positive news.
I wish everyone good luck for the stamping who are waiting & thanks to Saurabh & team for your help.
Best wishes,
Pallavi G.
Congrats Pallavi! Have a safe flight to US.
Congratulation Pallavi
Hi Pallavi, Congrats..!!
I need to ask you a quick favor. I am a PhD and on O1 visa same as your husband. I work for a Pharmaceutical Company. I got a White 221g on Apr 29 ay Hyd consulate and submitted the docs on May 2. My Admin Process Status is not updated since Apr 29. Could you please share with me your husband’s O1-stamping experience. That will be very helpful. If you could give me your or your husband’s contact number at vivekkumargarripelli at gmail dot com, that would be very helpful discussing your experience. Thank you very much.
Vivek.
Vivek,
Your case might be in TAL which gets resolved in 3-8 weeks. Is it still pending? Did they ask for resume, details of foreign trips etc?
Hi RM Khan,
I am waiting for H1B visa for the last almost 5 months. Passport pending with embassy. Every fortnight, I am sending mails about status, .Each time they are intimating that case is still under administrative processing. NO documents asked from me.
Hello Lucifer & Manish,
Where have you attended the consulate interview.Is this one your fresh H1B,….??
You can connect with me at rafat.sayeed at gmail or yahoo.lets try to findout whatt is similar between us.
Thanks!
Hi RMKhan,
I attended Visa Interview at New delhi consulate on 13th December 2012 and got pink slip.NO documents asked.
Still waiting
Hello Lucifer,
Did you get your VISA? There is no updat eon my case
Thanks!
Hello RM Khan,
No updates yet..the last updated date is still showing 4-jan-2013.
Hello Everyone…
Is there anybody who is waiting response from US-Emabsy(New Delhi) since more than 2 months for fressh h1B admin processing.
Hello RM Khan,
I am waiting for H1B visa for the last almost 11 months. Passport pending with embassy since 1st June 2012 after submission of all documents. Every fortnight, I am sending mails about status, as my I-797 shall be expiring on 30th Sept.2013. Each time they are intimating that case is still under administrative processing.
I referred the matter to Mr.Saurabh of this site,he is of the opinion that we cannot do any thing excepting having patience.
Hey Saurabh,
I got an email from support@ustraveldocs.com
(Subject: Your Case Case-2013-XX-XX-XXXXXXXXX Has Been Closed).
Mail: Your case has been updated, please log back into your account to view the details.
My case is pending the submission of your passport and I am asked to submit my passport to nearest OFC.
221 docs were submitted on March 06, 2013.
Ques: -
1.) I’m not able to check status on CEAC site. Could you please share the case number format. I’m getting invalid case number error message if m passing 2013-XX-XX-XXXXXXXXX has case number.
2.) What should I interpret from this email – VISA issued or Admin Processing has been closed for awhile(till the time I submit passport)?
Thanks
Deep,
1. If you received 221g, then you can try using the case number mentioned on 221g as well. If that doesn’t work either, then its better to contact their helpdesk and confirm
2. There is no clarity on this. In the past, the response was more specific but this is a new system now. Again, either we can speculate or you can wait for few days to know the sure result (or you can check w/ consulate).
Thanks Saurabh for your quick reply.
221(g) slip has DS160 number only and I’ve check status against DS160 number. Status is still same.
Tomorrow, I’m going to OFC to submit my passport. I’ll check with them regarding case status.
Hi All,
I have a H1B petition which expires in Oct 2013. I had attended the visa stamping in Hyderabad and currently it’s in Adminstrative processing (I attended Visa Interview on 12th Oct’12). I don’t know how much time it is going to take.
currently I am searching for a new sponsor (but I have to pay H1 fee again)..but I have few queries before I go for new sponsor…
1. I believe, my case comes under cap exempt..Please correct me if I am wrong.
2. Am I eligible for new pitition this year as my case is currently in progress (admin processing). It will expire on Oct’13.
Quick response is really Appreciated.
Thanks
Simha
Yes Simha, you are good to go for both the options. any employer can file your H1B petition under cap exempt. and you DO NOT have to cancel your present to file a new one or cap exempt petition.
All three can go in parallel.
Though, for 2014, you have to be real quick (unless you have already applied), it might go in lottery.
Good luck,
Deepak
Hi Saurabh,
I attended L1-B renewal stamping along with my family (wife and 2 children) at Mumbai consulate.
My case details:
Interview Date: 20 July 2012
Got 221g yellow form no docs required. Note only 1 yellow form was issued with my code, family was not issued forms separately. All passports were returned.
Code appeared in CSR pdf: Mar 22 2013 (8 months plus)
Only my code appeared in the CSR report on Mumbai consulate site. None of my family members codes appeared. My questions are:
1. Is it expected that the barcode appear for each dependent family member in the CSR report independtently or is the application clubbed as one so barcode for main applicant only is updated?
2. Should I wait for barcodes of all my family members to be updated before submitting the passport to VFS or no need to wait and I can still submit my family member passports along with mine?
Need your valuable input of this matter.
I contacted USTraveldocs and DOS but did not get any proper response.
Thanks
Om,
1. As you attended the interview together, that’s why only 1 code appeared.
2. I think you should submit all the passports w/ a letter explaining the scenario.
Hi Saurabh
One quick question my H1 is sent back to USCIS under 221g for reaffirmation or revocation.
I have NEVER worked for the employer who filed my H1 not even one day Once it was filed in 2011 I returned back to India. It got approved later and till today it moved till USCIS.Can my current employer file a transfer of that H1 under cap exempt.
Thanks & Regards
Ravi
Ravi,
Yes, current employer can file for a cap-exempt petition for you on the basis of previously approved petition.
Hi,
I came to US on L and my wife joined me after few months on L2.
I did apply for H and got it approved but went back to India and enter to US to maintain my L status.
My L was suposed to expire on 12/31/2012 and so is wife’s L2.
My H employer filed the amendment on 19th December and subsequently I got the approval on 22nd Feb,2013.
Unfortunately my employer did not apply the form i-539 for my wife’s H4.
She went to India on 27th, Feb and attended the visa inteview in Mumbai on 12th March.
She was handed over a blue slip and were asked to submit all of my visa (L1, H1, B1) and petitions.
We submitted them along with the Dec pay stub and W2 for 2012 on 13th March.
No updates on the web site and it just says delivered to post.
My wife has not submitted her passport and the CO never mentioned this being an administrative processing.
I understand there is no defined time frame but anyone has been through this earlier, please share the experience.
We have the return tickets scheduled for 17th April and we have our 13 month old baby travelling with my wife.
I know the baby being with my wife does not gurantee any leniency either.
Thanks
Sandeep Mishra,
There is nothing new I can tell which you don’t already know. She stayed in US for 1 week b/w Feb 22 and Feb 27 while you were on H-1 and she was on L-2. I think the officer will be lenient for the week, but in the end it’s officer’s discretion.
Hi Saurabhji,
I seek your valuable opinion.
The brief of my case is as under:-
.
1. First H1b visa interview at New Delhi consulate on 4th March 2011 and issued 221(g) slip
2. Submitted required documents on 5th April 2011.
3. H1b Visa denied on 1st Nov.2011 .
4. Case was reviewed and approval reaffired on 23rd April 2012.
5, Second H1b visa interview at New Delhi consulate on 1st June 2012, passport retained and again 221(g) slip issued.
6. Required doucments submitted on 26th June 2012.
Passport No.G3081900, Receipt No.EAC1017551048 dated June 14, 2010.
Validity of I-797 01/21/2011 to 09/30/2013.
Almost every week I am sending mails ,to the US embassy and every time they are saying that my case is under process.
Even I told them, if no chance of vista stamping immediately, please return my passport.
In reply they say, we appreciate your patience and as soon as admin. processing is over, we shall inform you.
WHAT IS YOUR OPINION, WILL THEY ISSUE ME VISA AND FOR HOW MUCH PERIOD OR IT WILL RESTRICT TO THE VALIDITY OF I-797 EXPIRING ON SEPT.30, 2013?
Regards,
Manish
Manish, we all understand your situation. We all have either faced the same or are in the same boat.
About your visa issue decision, nothing can be predicted. It is based on individual case, (interview, documents submitted, employer etc). Regarding the visa stamp validity, it is going to be the expiration date of your present petition (i.e. 09/30/2013).
Do not worry about the expiration, you can apply for extension once you land here (in premium if you have very less time) I had a colleague who landed here one month before his visa expiration and immediately they filed for extension in premium.
Make notes from your interview, discuss question with your employer and how to answer them appropriately. It is not the end, and there is no need to loose the hope.
Everything will be fine. Good luck.
Deepak
Hi Saurabh,
As intimated earlier, my passport is pending with US embassy since 1st June 2012 and since then no communication.
Almost every week, I have been reminding US embassy by mail at support@ustraveldocs.com and every time they are intimating we appreciate your patience and matter is under additional administrative processing and as soon as decision is taken by embassy , we shall communicate.
Is there any other mail address of US embassy or other higher authority, whom the case may be taken up for early decision?
Regards.
Manish Rawat,
That’s the only way to communicate with them. If you want the passport back, then call them and ask about the process. I think you need to submit a written application to return the passport.
There is no way to expedite the process. Unfortunately it takes its own sweet time.
Hi Saurabh,
I have attended interview on 06th Feb 2013 for fresh h1b.They put my case in admin processing & handed over a white slip.Also, they did not ask any other documents.They kept my passport & experience letter & return all the documents including original petition and asked me to wait for 2-3 weeks.Now, It’s 7th week but did not get any update from them.
Is there any chance for stamping…? I got RFE against this case in November 2012 for additional documents.
Your help will be appreciated!!!
Hi RM Khan,
This looks like background security check, I have been also in same boat and waiting since Nov 2012, due to my common muslim name.
Hopefully it will be resolved soon.
Thanks
Muhammad Hafeez
Same case with me. This is my 3rd H1 stamping & stuck since December 2012. I have a common muslim name too.
Hi Hafeez,
Thanks for your response.
I checked with my previous employer and visited to all the places where they can do background check.I am sure that they are not doing any background check.
Do you have any idea how much time they are taking to get decision.
I had my interview in November 2012 and since then no reply. I have a common muslim name too. I am assuming it has something to do with my background check, since my employer has never been contacted during the process till now. As I seen in the forums since last couple of month, If it was a empolyment verification, it is not taking more than 60 days. I hope it gets resolved very soon.
Hi HYD 221g,
Oh it looks like we are on exactly same situation, mine was also in November 2012, I am hoping for april month, as one of my friend told me that it takes about 5-6 months, mine is going to complete in april, so i guess it will be lucky month for us. hoping for the best for all of us….its really very frustrating process and has greatly affecting life… just waiting and waiting….
Thanks
Muhammad Hafeez
Hafeez,
I hope we hear something within in next few days. I am running on 132nd day. It has made my life miserable in many ways. Keep posted if your hear something. my e-mail is mik3772 at gmail dot com
Hafeez and others,
We have experiences the similar pain and anger at some point of time, but over the period you will realized it is just another phase of life.
I would personally suggest you to take this period as an opportunity to see things at larger canvas and try to find harmony and peace in every situation.
You can spend more time with your loved one from whom you were away and (again going to be away soon.)
Have some certification or complete anything pending.
Go visit some nice place you always wanted to.
You are definitely going to miss this period my friend. And remember, every moments is a new beginning, not an end.
May God be with you ! Good luck to all of you.
Hi HYD 221g,
any update on ur case?I am still waiting….
Thanks
Muhammad Hafeez
In Admin Process process, where common name check was involved, I have seen cases resolved within 2 to 3 month window (sometimes sooner).
If they company’s and person’s background check, it is all depending on when your case is picked up.
In some cases USCIS visited client’s/employer’s office and some cases, they reaffirmed the case without even calling the client/employer.
Keep your spirits high guys.
Thanks Deepak for well wishes,
Yeah you are right, we check everyday site and see “you case is till in admin processing” and hope for next day and so on, this is making us strong to tolerate and be patience.
Thanks
Muhammad Hafeez
Hi RM Khan,
They wont let you know about this procedure but if you go through blogs and googling you will find they do background security check, any how we should not be worried as we are clean and dont have any problem, we will get but time matters only…I guess there are lot of peoples who have been waiting since 2012, I guess it takes about 5-6 months, as i have been experiencing it.
Thanks
Muhammad Hafeez
Thanks Hafeez……
There is 60 days timeframe as per embessy site.Now, I am going to complete 60 days. let us see what happen…..
Hi RM Khan,
I am not discouraging you but as my personal experience, I was told my admin processing would take 2 months as VO said but it has taken about 4 and half months still waiting but as it depends on case to case…hope you will get it soon…
THanks
Muhammad Hafeez
Thank you very much Hafeez….
I have been told to wait for 2-3 weeks only. but now almost 2 months completed. you are right it depends on case to case.
Thanks
RM Khan
Hafeez,
I received ur e-mail and replied to it, but i keep getting mail delivery failure e-mail to ur hotmail e-mail. Even my interview was on November 14 at HYD consulate. still no update. Post ur e-mail. Will stay in touch.
Hello Hafeez,
Any update on your case….I contacted to consulate, they do not have any update.Just saying your case is in admin processing………… (((
Thanks!
Hi RM Khan,
Same here, it still in pending…very frustrating…..waiting waiting ….
Hafeez.
Hello Hafeez….
any update??
you can contact to me @ rafat.sayeed at gmail.com.
Thanks!
Still no update…
waiting and waiting, frustration growing high and high….lets see. hoping for best…
Thanks
M. Hafeez
Saurabh,
Need you suggestion.
I got 221g in dec 2012 now 95 days passes and no luck.
I have a bond with my company till oct 2013.
Please tell me if after bond completion I got my stamped Visa then is it possible for me to change company along with visa.
means if this visa is valid for other company also or if I resign my company will cancel this visa.
Suggest
Lucifer,
Bonded labor is not allowed in US. People are free to join/change employers at their will. However, if you have a contract outside US, then you will have to see the labor rules in that country.
Hi Sourbah,
Thanks for your answers. I got B1 Visa. thanks dude!!!!!!!
Congrats wantAnswer! Have a safe trip.
221g(white) from hyd consulate.
saurabh – received my passport with visa stamped after 42 days. thanks for your info.
Congrats Srikanth! Have a safe flight to US.
Finally after 1 month, 18 days of 221 (G ) White form wait, today I have received my passport with Visa Stamping.
Here goes my H1B journey:
Visa stamping date : 17th Jan 2013
Consulate : Hyderbad.
received 221(g) White form requesting for client Contract document.
Submitted contract document within a weeks time at VFS.
on 13th feb, received email to submit passport at VFS and i have submitted it on 14th Feb.
On UStraveldocs.com website, passport status didn’t show up till 26-feb. On 27-feb, I was able to see the status as Delivered to Post and at the sametime, I was checking my visa status on https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx?eQs=WwjqOlbeRYzCYubaSQI+RA== website .
On 28 Feb, I saw my Visa status changed to ISSUED from ADMIN PROCESSING.
Finally I have received email on 04/mar to pickup passport from VFS office. today i have collected my passport with VISA stamped.
Thanks Saurabh & team for your answers.
All the best for everyone who are waiting for VISA stamping.
Regards,
Sam
Congrats Sam!
Hi All,
I got my passport yesterday from VFS office, When I opened the envelope I found that the passport had no H1B stamping in it.
I also had another envelope which said “Your Visa Is rejected as your US employer do not qualify for H1″ It also had a note that US consulate will handover my case to USCIS….Atleast I got my passport back within 60 days of my VISA interview.
When we send email to passportstatus@…, I got reply saying it is with origination scan. What is peculiar is even now ceac website showing it as “administrative processing”
I also got a mail from noreply@… to collect passport, prior collecting passport..
Thanks everyone for your answers and support!
Hi Saurabh,
I was attend the interview on Dec 31st of 2012. After 60 days, I send mail to ustraveldocs.com.
Got a reply, it says ” Please be informed that your documents are under the Consulate process “.
Can you tell me what is that “documents are under the consulate process”.
Regards,
Madhes
Madheswaran,
This means they are still processing your case. There is no set processing time and it can take several months at times.
Hi Saurabh,
Rencently my status changed in CEAC website. It shows “post is attempting to independently verify certain information presented by Mr.XXX”. This means how long it takes to get my status of visa.
Please let me know any one got visa after this above status and how much time it takes after this status.
Madhes,
Seems like background verification. There is no set processing time and can take few weeks or up to several months.
Current Employment Details – I’m working for company ABC, India and working on Project of client XYZ.
Petitioner is ABC, US and Client is XYZ.
I had a interview on Feb, 2013 and my case is moved to Administrative Processing [221(g)]….Got white slip
They have asked to submit copies of all pay slips and monthly bank statements for last year
Ques – I have never been to US so I don’t have any US pay slip or bank statement.
Do they want to check my current India Employer relationship? Should I submit my India pay slips and bank statements? …I’m confused.. Please advise
Usually who have been to US, are asked for Salary Slips or bank statement. Please correct me if I am wrong?
Saurabh ….. Please help
Deep,
That is correct. You haven’t been to US so payslips and bank statements do no make sense here. If you don’t want to take chances, then submit your Indian payslips and bank statements along w/ a letter stating that you have never been to US and so don’t have any US documents.
Thanks for the reply
I am going to Toronto for H1B Stamping on 12th of March 3013 . Anyone going in that week please let me know.
Reach me @ : flex.mir at gmail dot com
Interview date : March 2012(Mumbai)
Received a NOID on amended petition Feb 2013. Total 11 months and still waiting for a closure.
whats next? how does this go about from here ? any advise?
Not much keep waiting most probably you will never hear. It is a mess.Are you on internal project?
External on-site. what diff does it make?
Hitesh,
Your employer can open a MTR/appeal against the decision which can take another few months and doesn’t guarantee approval. It may be faster to go through a different employer in the next cap.
hi saurabh -i came on vacation to India and attended my h1b visa interview. visa officer issued 221g and kept my passport. his query was why i attended visa interview inspite of choosing visa waiver program.after basic questions, he said that he was issuing 221g the same that was given two year back. dependant got visa. .Any suggestions/ advise ? thanks
Sree,
See the response here
Hi Saurabh,
Applied H1b when i was in India and it’s processing time i moved to USA on H4. Recently H1b approved and later my employer filed for COS and it was denied(didn’t mention any reason that). I don’t want to go for stamping.
1). Now is it possible to transfer(new employer) visa and do the COS in premium processing?.
2). For transfer petition approved and COS denied then i need to go for stamping. In this case i am having two I-797B petitions(I applied for transfer using I-797B approved petition and transfer approved). Shall i try stamping with two approved petitions. First i will go with stamping with first I-797B petition if i get 221G then shall i try with other approved petition?.
Please advice.
Saurabh please help me out. Thanks.
You can have more than one approved petitions, but your visa will be issued based on only one. If you apply using first and it got rejected, you can always apply with second one.
It all depends how each employer is presenting your case.
You cannot hide the fact that your visa was rejected, and it is advisable not to do so.
Make a strong but genuine case and stick to the employer who can give better supporting documents.
Good luck.
Thanks Deepak. Is there any chance of approval of COS once it’s rejected?.
H1bstamp,
1. Yes, another employer can file cap-exempt petition w/ COS for you. Previous petition denial will not impact you as long as the reason was not related to your immigration status or your documents. Its ok if the denial was b/c of employer specific reasons.
2. Agree w/ Deepak’s comment
Hi Saurabh,
Thanks for the reply. My previous employer COS petition denied due to i came to US on H1b petition processing after i came to US H1b approved. That was the reason(person came on H1b processing time and it’s approved after it’s approval).
Now shall i apply transfer with COS in premium with new employer?. Is there any chance of COS approval this time?.
Thanks in advance.
H1bstamp,
It will not impact the COS processing of your new H-1 transfer.
Hi,
I got 221G in April 2012 ( Yellow slip) for H1 extension. VO asked me to keep checking site with some tracking number. My tracking number does not appear on that site. But USCIS site status is showimg that they emailed me decision. Could you please help me to understand this. Wether its approved or rejected?
Amees,
USCIS website is for the petition and not visa. Check the CEAC website for visa processing update or you can look at the consulate website (which you are already doing).
MY H1 extention was already approved. After taht I went India for stamping. But after this deciusion m confused wether they cancelled or what?
CEAC website is not showing my code. But Consulate website is showing decision is sent. Status changed to Decision
Amees,
So the consulate where you appeared, says that the decision has been sent. Did you submit the passport? If yes, then stamped visa must be on its way. Did you get notified on your phone/email about the passport?
Hi Saurabh,
Today status again got change to Post decision activity saying that Case is revoke. here are my queries:
a. What is complete procedure time if I provide all doc for revokation case
b. What are chances of approve of such case?
c. should i apply for revoke case or good to file hew H1 in Cap 2014?
d. I am filling new H1 ( my employer is ready ) , do i need to cancel the old case with revookation. will it cause problem in new H1?
Here is total case details:
H1 extention
Visa stamping: 27 April 2012
221G: 24 May 2012
Decision: Revoke- 28 Feb 2013..
Please provide your valuable input on above query , so that it can help me to proced further….
Sorry for too much questions
Amees,
1. Your employer can file MTR or appeal against the decision within 30 days.
2. They will have to show why the denial was incorrect and why it should have been approved. If USCIS agrees to the documents submitted, then they will reinstate it else the petition will remain denied.
3. Talk to employer about their confidence level. As a backup you may decide to go through cap again through a different employer.
4. No action required on old case for the purpose of new filing.
Thanks Saurabh for your inputs….
Today again i got update…. USCIS requested Documents as – SOW & Client letter ….
My employer is ready to provide docs.
1. How much time it will take again for decision after submitting docs?
2. My PM is suggesting to go for New L1 ( safe and side).. I have 6+ experience… which I am not ready to take a chance.
3. Can I raise new H1 in this cap from same employer?
Amees,
1. There is no set processing time but can take few months in general.
2. Are you qualified for L-1?
3. If it is filed w/ same/similar set of documents, then new H-1 can also run into issues like this. Whether you file another cap-subject H-1 petition or cap-exempt petition (aka H-1 extension), they will face same scrutiny.
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