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What is 221g ? Process, How long to Resolve, Delay, Issues, FAQs

Any person planning to travel to US has to go through a visa interview process at the US embassy/consulate, and as part of the interview process, the consulate officer reviews all the submitted documents and information and makes the decision, whether to approve or reject the visa for that individual. As part of the visa interview process, they often issue 221g form, when they want to do additional processing and cannot make the decision at the time interview is being conducted. Let’s look at the details regarding 221g and some of the process steps for 221g situations, what happens after that in this article.

What is 221(g) in context of US visa Stamping ?

When the US consulate officer determines that additional processing is required before they can make the decision on your US visa issuance, they issue 221(g) form. It is a basically a piece of paper and it can be in various colors, depending on the consulate and processing they would like to do or information they need to verify.

When is 221g issued ? What are the common reason for 221g ?

A person can be put under administrative processing,also called as 221g, because of several reasons. Some of the most common reasons are:

  1. Background check: This can happen if a person has a common muslim name, or is working in an industry like pharmaceutical, biotech, engineering etc that’s there on TAL (Technology Alert List); or has a name matching to an entry in alert list.
  2. Employment check: This can happen if a person is working for a consulting company and the officer wants to ensure that the submitted client/project information is correct; or want to check if the employer maintains control over employee’s tasks and activities (employer-employee relationship).
  3.  Petitioner Information Management Service(PIMS) : This can happen when the petition has not been updated at the KSC (Kentucky Service Center) and the officer puts the processing on hold until the information gets updated there.

What does the Department of State (DOS) do after 221g is issued?

Once your visa stamping case is put under administrative processing using 221g, following steps happen:

  1. Issuance of 221g a Color Slip :  A slip will be issued to you as the visa applicant by the US Consulate officer. Different color slips are issued for different reasons by different consulates. The slip will have the case number assigned to your stamping. The case number starts w/ the year of interview date and will be of the format 2012xxx-xxx-x or 2012xxx-xxx-xx (assuming the candidate went for interview in 2012).
  2. Submit Documents, mentioned in 221g Slip : If the consulate needs additional documents for the processing, they will ask you to submit the documents. These can be submitted electronically or at VFS drop-box. The issued slip will have information about the required documents and how to submit them. The processing will not start until all the documents have been submitted.
  3. Waiting time : After you submit the documents, if requested in the slip, you just need to sit back and wait for them to process your case. There is nothing you need to do, just need to wait…It can be long at times…
  4. Submit Passport or Visa issuance Decision : Once the processing is complete and you are determined to be eligible for the visa, then you will be asked to submit the passport (if not already submitted) and they would stamp the visa in the passport. If you are not found to be eligible, then they would return the original documents (except for 797) and give a denial letter. Check out Sample 221g US Visa Denial Letter. 

[prompt type=”left” title=”221(g) Case Tracker ” message=”View 221(g) Cases by added by community. Please  add your 221(g) Case for everyone’s benefit. It is fully anonymous and will help many waiting for it like you.” button_text=”View or Add your 221(g)Case!” href=”https://redbus2us.com/trackers/221g-tracker/”]

How long does 221g processing take to resolve and come to a decision ?

There is no set timeline or SLA for 221g processing. It totally depends on the case and it can take as little as a week, or as much as several months. It is very hard to know how much time it will take for them to come to a decision on your visa stamping case. As per US Travel Docs Website, they say that most of the administrative processing cases resolve typically in 60 days, but there is no SLA as such. See below.

US Visa Administrative Processing Time for decision

 When can you follow up on 221g with Consulate or US Dept of State ?

As per US Dept of State, unless it is an emergency like injury, death of family member or something critical, you should not contact them regarding administrative processing before 180 Days. It is kind of long, but that’s what it is.. See below from Dept of State website.

US Visa 221g Administrative Processing Time for inquiry

How to follow-up on your 221g  processing  ? What are the options to check your 221g case ?

As per US Dept of state guidance, you cannot reach out before 180 days, but users can still track their case online using the options provided and sometimes, they can call as well. Below are the various options to follow-up on your 221g case :

  1. Track your passport on US Travel Docs Website 
  2. Track your case number on US Department of State Visa Status Page. Note that not all cases can be tracked electronically, and each consulate has a different method of updating the cases. You should check your country’s US Travel Docs website to know where to check.
  3. Call customer service using contact us on US Travel Docs Website. There are options for live chat, Skype calling and other options. Note that they will not provide any more meaningful information than what’s already available from (1) and (2), but you can always ask more.
  4. Email concerned US consulate (contact information available at respective consulate website). Note that they may not be very good in responding, but you can try it.
  5. Email or call Department of State in Washington DC (contact information available on Department of State website). Note that they will not provide any more meaningful information than what’s already available from (1) and (2), and may be short in conversation. As they mention, you need to wait for 180 days before reaching out to them. In the past it was 60 days, but now it has gone up.
  6. If you were working in US, then you can email your Senator and ask them for help. However, this should be done only if it has been pending for 180 days or more. Again, there is no guarantee. In the past we had the 60 days guidance to reach out on VFS website, but now it is different and the the guidance on Dept of State website is 180 days to follow-up for non-emergency cases. .

[prompt type=”left” title=”221(g)  Community Telegram Group ” message=”Do you need help from community in same boat with 221g ? Join the Telegram Group…Give or get advice….” button_text=”Join 221(g) Telegram Group !” href=”https://t.me/joinchat/JdJoSRfKSvtB_GftUCvaHw”]

Can I expedite 221g processing? Is there premium processing for US Visa Administrative Processing ?

Absolutely no premium processing or way to expedite the process, unless it is an emergency as indicated.  You just need to wait. The wait can be long, but it is what it is…

Does delay in 221g processing mean rejection?

Not necessarily. Unfortunately, administrative processing takes time, and one needs to remain hopeful. If one has been asked to submit the passport, then that’s definitely a positive sign. However, if one has not been asked to submit the passport, then it’s not necessarily a negative sign.

Are there any alternatives to 221g situation for your US Visa?

There are not many alternates, but the few options available are:

  1. Apply for US visa in another category. This can be done as long as you are eligible for that visa category. One doesn’t need to withdraw the pending 221g application with US consulate.
  2. Apply for same visa but through another employer (applicable more to H1B applicants). Based on your current petition, an employer (same or different) can file cap-exempt petition for you. Once it is approved you can re-appear for visa interview. Again, one doesn’t need to withdraw the pending 221g application.

What happens in case of rejection with 221g ?

In case the US stamping request is rejected after the administrative processing:

  1. Consulate will send the petition back to USCIS for reconsideration along w/ their comments
  2. All your original documents will be returned to you, except for I-797 which is sent to USCIS
  3. Once USCIS receives the petition, they will send a notice of receipt to the petitioner
  4. USCIS will review the petition (this could take 2-3 months) and either issue NOIR (Notice of Intent to Revoke) or NOID (Notice of Intent to Deny). The petitioner will be given certain days (30-60 days, actual days given is mentioned in the NOIR/NOID) to respond.
  5. Based on petitioner’s response, USCIS will finally reinstate the petition or deny it
  6. If it’s reinstated, then USCIS will send the document to the concerned consulate, which in turn will get in touch w/ you to appear at the consulate.

Again, this is a very lengthy process and can take time. Some of these steps would happen during the administrative processing as well.

We continue to update the 221g article, based on most commonly asked questions in the blog.

Also, you can check out our 221(g) tracker that has anonymous data with users like you, who added the details for community benefit.  Waiting for the 221(g) response from US Consulate can be very painful…To help everyone be informed on average processing time and other similar cases,  we have built an easy way to track for users their 221(g) status and let the community have an idea on the timeline as well. It is fully anonymous. Please add your case to the 221(g) Tracker.

Original Image : http://www.elfwood.com/art/l/y/lycos/numero_tresbmp.jpeg

   

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2,074 Comments

  1. I would like to share my exepriences about 221 g and B1/B2 visa and the information I collected about 221 g

    Read about Section 221(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act
    on http://travel.state.gov/visa/frvi/ineligibilities/ineligibilities_1364.html

    There are many reasons to get 221 g letter after your visa interview.
    I being a researcher come under ‘Technology Alert List” (TAL) and have to under go 221 g process.

    You may read more about TAL
    http://www.uncg.edu/ipg/talandvisa.pdf
    http://www.uncg.edu/ipg/TAL%20DOS%20Overview.pdf
    http://www.uncg.edu/ipg/tal.pdf

    Pages 4 to 6
    www.state.gov/documents/organization/86962.pdf
    It also gives what are the questions to be asked during visa interview related to TAL

    Now in my case I have been issued US visa 6 times but every time its one year visa as follows
    Dec 1984 J1 (M) No 221 g — got my visa same day

    Nov 2005 B1 / B2 (S) No 221 g — got my visa same day
    My 221 g experience–

    Interview visa type 221g letter color Cleracne received after

    Mar 2006 B1 / B2 (M) White 29 days

    Dec 2009 B1 / B2 (M) Yellow 18 days

    Jan 2011 B1 / B2 (M) Green 33 days

    June 2012 B1 / B2 (M) Green 25 days

    May 2013 B1 / B2 Green documents submitted by email but came back as in one of invitation letter contact phone number of sender was not there So resent on 30 May

    When I had gone for interview in June 2012 I asked VO that why every time I have to go thrugh this process. He said clerance validity is one year. Next time you apply for visa before it gets expired This time ( May 2013) I did it two months before my visa expiration date.
    When VO took out the 221 g green letter I told her what was told by VO last time. VO said OK let me check. She went back to office from her interview window chair , came back and said – dont know how last time VO told you like that. You have to undergo this process.

    This time I have to attend a conference and I hope clearance should come before the conference date. Also unless I get clerance I can not book the air ticket or hotel at the cheaper rates.

    Read the news in Newyork times

    http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/03/science/03visa.html?_r=0

    Last year when I applied , at VFS I was told that I am eligible for IWP (Interview Waiver Program) as last year in the IWP eligibility there was no question- If your previous visa is with annotation. Last year when VFS office told that I am eligible for IWP I was very happy. I submitted my passport but after 3-4 days passport came back with a letter indicating ” interview required”. When I went for interview I was aksed to undergo 221g process.

    Now my questions is if the applicant is not eligible for IWP just because his previous visa is with annotation then in that case–
    there should be provision that when applicant submits his application – along with that– submit all the documents which are asked in 221 g letter. Get the clearance and notify the applicant. Submit passport as you do in IWP or call for interview and issue visa.

    I am finger printed 3-4 years back but this time I had to go to Mumbai first for photo -finger printing , then after 10 days for interview and then asked to submit documents under 221 g.
    Why so much of lengthy procedures? and that too every time giving only one year visa.

    I am not against 221g clearance as it is needed for nations security but there should be some logic asking again and again to submit my resume about my past and recent research , list of publications , patents etc. I am working in research filed for last 30 years and it is obvious that my research field , experience is not going to change every year significantly.

    I hope this time my 221 g clearance comes before the conference date !!

    Reply
  2. Hi,

    I attended my B1 interview on May 31,2013 at Chennai Consulate. My interview went on fine and VO confirmed that my visa is approved. After the interview I was handed over 221G pink slip. I am not sure why this has happened. I was asked to go to counter no 31 and the indian lady asked few questions o like my height, qualification, experience, countries I have travelled. She just asked me to drop the passport and invite letter from US. My company falls under the BEP category.

    Can you please let me know what are your thoughts on this?

    Regards,
    Arun

    Reply
    • Hi Arun,

      Even i am having the similar case. The only difference is of dates. I attended interview on 12th July ’13. Please update me if you get any reply.
      Could you please share the state of your Permanenet Adderess.

      Thanks
      Kamal Kumar

      Reply
    • Arun/Kamal,
      This usually happens when they want to do background check on you. Such queries are usually resolved in 3-8 weeks, but can take longer as well.

      Reply
    • Hi Arun,
      Did you get your visa ?.
      Please,if you did. let me know how long it took to get it and whether your travel date was still valid when you received it, thanks

      Reply
  3. I attend H1B visa interview on 24th Jan, 2013 on 7th year extension, I got approved my I-140 in G.C but they gave 221g whitelsip and said admin processing. They took all documents except my passport. But recently i got message from my manager saying that USCIS reached to company asked about my joining date, roles etc.. I received my documents before this happens. In website still it is showing case is pending for administrative process but after i read the article if they are not approve visa they will return documents except I797. In this case mine is approval or rejected?

    Reply
    • Upender,
      It’s still under process. They may be doing background check (and hence the visit to your employer). USCIS will now send their results to the consulate who will then decide to approve or deny the visa. Still no set processing time for all this.

      Reply
  4. Dear Saurabh,
    we appeared for visa interview at mumbai consulate india on 23rd march 2012 for immigration visa as my sister has filed pettion for us,then they gave us 221G ,administrative process then they asked us after one month to submit affidavit of blood relation of all siblings that also we had submitted & they also asked for our passport along with affidavit,we sent to them ,they kept our passport with them since may 2012 to january 2013 & then return our passport & told us the same that your case is under administrative process under 221g is continue when it has done we let you know,eventhough no. of mails ,phones no response from them,i would like to know that when they complete our admin process & issue us the visa,as from our side no documents are pending,please if you know somebody at usa or mumbai,please help me because due to that we cant plan any outside visit
    ,its great favor if u can help me this,once again many thanks for your kindness & positive attitude
    Thanks,
    kamal

    Reply
    • Kamal,
      There is no set processing time to 221g process. It can take weeks, months or years. There is nothing you can do at this point except to wait.

      Reply
  5. Hello Saurabh

    I have converted my H 1 b from Regular to Premium yesterday, but as i expected i dint find any change on my case status, which was still on Initial review. When will actual 15 day clock starts? and will they straight away start my premium processing(15 day clock) or not? when can i expect change on my case status?. Could you kindly help me with this?
    Thank you.

    Reply
    • Sairam,
      Once USCIS receives the upgrade package, they will process it in a day or two. The 15 calendar day window will start from that date.

      Reply
  6. Hi pls suggest me that c1/d visa ,i faced my intervew on 21.03.2013.they gave me white slip &.the case status show stil pending.pls help me what should i do.

    Reply
    • Sabir,
      You cannot do anything except to wait for them to complete the processing. This can take few weeks or several months.

      Reply
    • Thak u for rply. Me.one thing that i attended my visa intervew at kolkata consulate on 21.03.2013 for seaman visa C1/D.i get my case no.they take my passport & other docoment.they told me that ‘your application requires additional administrative processing before afinal decision can be made’how long this prosess pls let me know.can i get my passport.they also tel me inbetween two month your visa will clear.pls advise me .thanks.

      Reply
      • Sabir,
        If they are doing background checks, then those are typically resolved in 3-8 weeks. If you have a common muslim name, then it can take longer. Someone just had their visa approved after 7 months of processing.

        The good news is that they kept the passport, which is a positive sign. If you need the passport in b/w, then contact the consulate and ask the process. They may ask to submit a written letter for the same.

        Reply
  7. Sourabh

    Is this thread for 221g just for H1B visa or 221 g for any type of visa e.g. B1/B2 too?
    For B1/ B2 I am going through 221 g process every year for last 5-6 years
    I can share my experiences for the same

    Reply
    • Par26,
      This is for 221g in general. Please share you experience on this page, or you can email it to us and we can write a new blog post on it. You can email us using the contact link above.

      Thanks

      Reply
      • @ Arun -I have shared my 221 g experience for B1/B2 visa in detail.
        The comment will be displayed after the moderation

        @Sourabh I had sent my experience in detail with -contact us button but not sure if you received it. I have shared the same now here under comment.

        Reply
  8. Hi, I attended my Visa interview for H1B stamping ( first time stamping, EVC model) at the Kolkata consulate on May 7th 2013. The VO asked a lot of questions about my employer, my education (I got an MS from US univ), etc., He finally kept my passport and documents and gave me a white 221(g) form – just ticked the section where it says that the case needs more processing. He also said I might have to come in for a re-interview.

    Now, my wife is in the US on a stamped H1 (stamped 2 months ago). If I dont want to wait for admin processing to drag on and if I want to go for H4 stamping, how can I get my passport back? I tried reaching out to VFS, but I cant get to a human operator. Is it possible to get my passport back WITHOUT withdrawing the H1 application? If so, what is the best way to do this? Please advise. Thanks.

    Reply
    • Abhishek,
      I think the usual process is to submit an application asking for the passport back. You can also include that they can continue to the processing and you can submit the passport later when they are ready to issue the visa, and you need the passport for other purposes.

      Try to email them and see if they respond w/ the actual process and where to send that letter.

      Reply
    • To get to a human on phone, Call US Consulate and once connected, dial below numbers,
      1 – 2 – 2 – 3 – 5, one at a time, this will take you to operator.

      All the Best.

      Thanks,
      Imran.

      Reply
  9. Hi Saurabh,
    I had my H1B visa interview on Sep 10th, 2012 in Hyderabad. They have given me 221g and said they are going to do background check. There is no update until now. Also, I don’t have a job right now. What are the chances of getting my visa approved? As I don’t have a job now, will my visa get rejected? Is there any deadline for updating my case? I am not sure how long I need to wait. Approve or Reject, they need to update my case.
    Thanks,
    Phalgun

    Reply
    • Phalgun,
      Nothing can be said. 221g is kind of black hole and one can only wait for them to complete the processing. Do you no longer have the job w/ the company that filed your H-1? If yes, then go for cap-exempt H-1 petition (aka H-1 transfer). Even if visa gets approved you cannot use it for travel as the H-1 employer no longer employs you.

      Reply
  10. Hi,

    My Case is not even H1B processing, It is a simply H4 spouse visa. My husband left for US on 16th of Dec 2012 on H1B and I went for my interview on H4 Spouse Visa on 18th of March 2013, since then it has been 60 days and there has been no update. The Officer there took my passport and said I need a little bit of Admin Processing and handed over the 221g White slip. Since then I have been waiting for them to return my passport. I wonder if any H4 requires so much time. I am staying alone without my husband since the last almost 6 months now and its becoming extremely tough for me to manage stuff.

    I do send them mails to enquire about my status but its the usual reply to wait untill Its 60 days. Now since 60 days have passed , does anyone have any idea what to do in my case. I am totally lost and getting really impatient now. I am also completely disappointed by the Consulate and its working. Can anyone guide me as to what it to be done next since my 60 days waiting time is also gone.

    Reply
    • Miracle,
      Do you have a common muslim name? If yes, then it could be background verification just like they do it for H-1 visa applicants. For background verification it doesn’t matter what visa you are trying for. As long as it is something that can be used for travel to US, they can put people in background verification.

      Ask your spouse’s attorney to follow-up w/ DHS in US. They can also write to the Senator in their area. Although it may not expedite the process or tell you the timeline, it may give you a sense of what’s going on.

      Reply
  11. Hi,
    i attended my visa interview with my wife and daughter(8 months old). After few regular questions, she told that my visa is approved, but need to undergo AAP and handed me 2 pink slips, one each for me and my wife, and asked me to go to counter no 31.
    at Counter 31, an Indian lady asked me questions about my height, earlier countries visited and about my siblings. She also kept my passport and other documents.
    Now, the big question is, how soon can i get the passport back? if i have to travel to another country,can i take my passport back , travel and submit the passport again, without impacting the overall process?
    Any experience would help much.
    Regards,

    Reply
    • Parvez,
      You are most likely in background verification process. Typically it is 3-8 weeks but it is not a bounding timeline for them. If you want to travel to another country, then call their customer support and let them know. They may ask you to submit a letter and will then return the passports.

      Reply
  12. Its been more than 10 and half months since i got 221 g pink slip for business trip. i almost stopped checking my case status now. every time case status remains same. just to see the GREAT USA system i check my case status. so FUNNY it is. how can one wait for months to start a hotel business in USA? so i too changed my plans along with my partners although all of them got 10 yr visas.great business nation you are BIG BROTHER. may be my case will help others to know how bad is this 221 g(pending administrative processing).

    Reply
  13. We are four members(mother,2 daughter, 1 son) .Three members got the us visa.But one member(son) not get the visa in us embassy dhaka and they ask administrative processing wait several week(how many days for wait) .Our everything papers and others material totally OK.

    Reply
  14. Hi Saurabh,

    Please guide on this.

    I was working for company A on my H1. I transferred my H1 to some other company B few months back without giving any notice to company A.

    But my spouse’s H4 is not yet transfered to company B.

    my question : 1) is there any need to transfer my spouse’s H4 to company B??

    2) what if company A amends my H1, will my spouse’s H4 will be hampered.

    3) we have filed H1 for my wife this year with i-94 of my previous company. will that any way affect her H1 filing if my old H1 gets revoked

    Please guide on this. Its really important .
    Thanks !!

    Reply
  15. Hello Saurabh,
    I was in US in L1 visa after the completion of three years I have applied for further stamping and appeared for the interview at Toronto Canada. After the interview the officer gave me 221g Yellow card and ask me to wait for the admin process. As my visa was valid for another two more months I traveled back to US. After a month time consulate sent me a mail saying that my clearance has been done and to resubmit the passport along with 221g form and copy of clearance email. After few weeks I came back to Toronto and submitted my passport along with the mentioned documents. They give me a slip as receipt and ask me to come after two days. On the due date morning I got a mail from our company attorney saying that my profile went for another round of admin process. Till the time – 6 weeks now, no information. Any suggestions or your experience here will be really appreciated

    Thanks,
    Eldin

    Reply
    • Eldin,
      Administrative processing is kind of a black box. There is not much you can do here, except to wait. Your attorney can follow-up w/ DHS but not sure if they will provide anything meaningful.

      Reply
  16. hi saurabh

    i had attended interview on 24 th of jan and i had been given a white 221g and asked to submit all doc possible i had submitted it after a one month delay on march without passport. after fifteen days the documents which i submitted got returned along with 221g letter asking to submit client letter and project list. i submitted both on march 24 th along with passport but they didnt ask for passport but the lady in ofc collected it from me. on april 4th i recieved my passport back with 221 g blue form to return passport i had returned the passport back in counter within a hour and on april 10 th i recieved my passport back with no visa stamping but with additional administrative processing ticked what does this whole process mean any one in this form have an idea about this .. what is the percentage of getting visa as i am fed with this whole process

    Reply
    • Vinodh Kumar,
      At this point there is nothing you can do except wait for them to complete the processing. It can take few weeks to several months. They will review the submitted documents and will either ask you to submit the passport for stamping, or send the documents back to USCIS for possible revocation. Until then, you can follow-up w/ them but their response will be pretty standard.

      The process has also been outlined in the main article above.

      Reply
  17. I had my interview on Sep 10th, 2012. They gave me a white slip with case number. It seems they will be doing employment background check. They thought my client letter is fake. It is strange they are taking so much time. It has been more than 7 months and still there is no update on my case 🙁

    Reply
    • Hi Phalgun,

      Any luck, my case is also similar, they thought my client letter is FAKE. I attended the interview on Sep 25 2012. It is now May 30 2013. 8 1/2 months. Did you receive any update?

      Reply
      • No updates yet. Status still shows administrative processing. Do you still have that job? Do you know if anyone else had similar case and got visa? Do you think we can still get visa?

        Reply
  18. Hi Saurabh,

    I am working in leading software company.I appeared for H1b interview at Mumbai on 10th Apr 2013. The Officer checked my passport and orignal I-797 document and asked me few questions like
    Client Name,client loction,desgination,salary in US and matraial status(I am married).
    and he gave me yellow 221(g) and wrote down “Document drof off box”.
    I tried to recollect all the thing what he asked and found one thing… I have mentioned high salary($5000) in DS-160 form what actually mentioned in my LCA ($4375). Is this a problem?

    I saw somewhere in another blog that “The actual salary could be equal to or greater than the amount mentioned on LCA.” So I guess that is not a reason why they gave me yellow 221(g) paper.

    Please guide me..its very urgent.

    Reply
      • No, this is not an issue.
        The following are the color codes and the explanation of what each color means:

        Blue: A 221g Blue slip is given when the additional documentation is required. After submitting the required documents, a decision will be taken by the Consulate.

        Pink: A 221g Pink slip is handed out when your application needs further administrative processing. The consulate will notify you once the processing is done. This form is most likely issued when the Visa Officer is doubtful about your current employer or work related information. You will be given a reference id and you can track the status online.

        Yellow: A 221 g Yellow slip denotes general type of administrative processing. The Consulate looks at all the documentation provided by the candidate and the employer.

        White: A 221g White slip denotes requirement for further processing by the USCIS. The Consulate pushes back these kinds of cases to the USCIS and the decision is taken based on the information obtained from the USCIS.

        Reply
        • Thanks Delhi_14_April for your quick reply. I was very frustrated while searching on other blogs.

          But still I have one question, if it’s a general type of administrative processing than why officer wrote down “Document drop off box” .
          And do you have any idea how much time it will take and how I come to know the status of my Visa. Thanks in advance.

          Reply
  19. Hi!
    My father had Immigrant visa interview on 22nd of March 2013. He is the only member of our family going to US. My sister filed application only for him. At the Mumbai consulate he was asked, why he is going alone to which he replied, my children are still studying and they’ll be with their mother. And he is told to submit a fee of 165$. Meanwhile an American came and asked do you have any pic with your daughter. My father didn’t carried any photographs there. At the end they gave back all the original documents along with the passport and a white paper letter stating “Your visa case is currently undergoing necessary administrative processing.” Please guide what to do and what does it mean. Thanks in advance

    Reply
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  21. Hi everyone,

    My h1 visa got approved after 5 months of 221G processing at Toronto consulate.

    Do I have to go back to Toronto consulate to obtain the visa stamp? Or can I get the actual stamp from any other consulate in a different country since I already have the approval? FYI I am currently not in Canada since I couldn’t stay there for that long!

    Thanks !

    Reply
    • Hi 221g_approved,

      Is this your first time h1b stamping? is your name common muslim? was this for h1b and h4 together ? did they gave you white slip?

      Please reply, one of my friend is also waiting for more than 4 months now. he has all above situations.

      I am also waiting for more than 4 months, still no update.

      Reply
  22. Does writing to legalnet help. I have waited for about 200 days so far for my L1A to come through. The attorneys seem to make a lot of money by sending out correspondences and enquiries. Just want to make sure this is worth it..

    Reply
  23. Hi Saurabh,

    I took my interview on Dec3 and was given 221g. They have asked all the documents related to emloyer and client relation ship.

    I submitted all those documents on 21Dec and still waiting for the response.

    I was not contacted by Consulate neither my Employer nor My Client was contacted till date.

    my question here is the 221g issued to me asked for documents regarding employer and client relation ship, then they should have contacted Client or atleast my employer on this regard if they have issued a 221g regarding their relationship. But none was done so far. What might be cooking inside Saurabh.

    Reply
  24. Hi All,

    I had a H1B visa interview week ago & was given blue slip with all the employer related document marked.
    My concern is, i am not having any case number on blue slip. When do we get a case number?
    My company is yet to submit the documents, it will be done in few days.
    Can you please tel me how to check case number and when do we get a 221g case number?

    Thanks,
    SB

    Reply
    • Check your case at

      CEAC.State.Gov

      Use your DS 160 Number to track your case.

      Sit tight it might take couple of months. I have been waiting for 2 months for blue slip from Mumbai.

      Reply
      • Hi Nirma

        Any update on your case.

        My went for interview on 31st of december in New delhi. first person to be in queue. I was with my family, my family was asked to wait. Typical questions were asked about me and my employer and why i left IBm and wanted to join this small time employer. the project was internal so no case of evc or employer-employee relationship.

        the only goof up i did was he asked about my previous Visa for whcih i said this is my first h1B, though i had travelled in 1998 on a different Visa (c1/d) and i had mentioned the same in my Ds 160. I forgot to mention about that visa and said this is the first time i am appearing for h1b , though i have multiple work permit of countries in Europe.

        I got a mail on 14th january with tons of document to be submitted which i did on 24th of January. In middle of February they made a call to my employer and send a questionaire to which he corretcly responded.

        Its been middle of march and there is no update. the time line of 60 days will finish on March 24th and i am not sure what to do. can you or saurabh suggest what should be my action plan or what i can expect from this?

        thanks

        Reply
        • @Man

          I am stuck in same situation and slowly accepting the fact that only thing you can do is wait.
          If you have a lawyer you can ask your lawyer to make an inquiry on your behalf at Legalnet after 60 days of Document Submission. (Only lawyers can make inquiries there).
          You can call Department of States and find out whether it is still pending or not.
          Consulates in India do not have a direct way to reach. i.e. you can only send your inquiries to support-india@ustraveldocs.com but they do not have access to anything and will give you a template answer.
          Only thing you can do is Wait and look for something else to divert your mind till this stupidity ends on your case.

          Reply
      • Thanks Nirma,

        But my only concern is when i checked few comments on blogs and website, people also track their status using the case number of format 2013XXXXXX-001.
        When do we get this kind of case number? because what i can find from comments was, when we check status using case number it gives more detail information.

        Please let me know when & where do we get case number of format 2013XXXXXX-001?

        Thanks,
        SB

        Reply
        • There is no set standards among consulates so HYD consulate will give you a case number that is XXXX-XXX-XXXX and Mumbai consulate will not give you anything like that.

          I have a blue 221g as well and you can track it through your DS 160 if no case number in XXXX-XXX-XXXX format is given.

          Reply
          • Hi Saurabh

            New to share
            After waiting for close to 60 days my passports were returned with a denial letter specifying my employer does not qualify/willing to be eligible for H1B Visa.

            However my employer has sponsored close to 60 H1 and has a employee strength of 20 guys currently.

            I have another petition valid till 2014 with another employer with 100+ employee strength and he is sharing with me a client PO and contract ( not Name specific client letter). I will be working with them if Visa gets approved and only if i am posted in the US. What do you suggest my chances with a recent 221G denial? with a new employer of 100+ employees do i stand a fair chance for Visa approval if he shares the PO with the client ( with whom my petition was filed) but without a Name specific client letter. An urgent reply is appreciated.

            Man

  25. Hi,

    Can some one confirm if i can cancel my appoinment with embassy as iam unable to attend due to personal resons. it may take a long time for me? will this H1b pitetion will be valid for next year if wish to attend probably next yr starting?

    By cancelling appoinment, will it be a negative impact on me if i wish to apply for H1b again?

    Thanks in advance,

    Ryan

    Reply
    • Ryan,
      Different consulates have different ways to cancel the visa appointment. One can do it online or by calling the consulate helpdesk. If you don’t attend visa interview now, you can still go for another stamping during the validity period of the petition. If the petition expires, then new cap-exempt petition needs to be filed and approved before appearing for stamping.

      Reply
  26. Hi Saurabh,

    I have attended my H1b visa interview on October 26th 2012 @ Chennai consulate. I was given 221g white slip with additional administration process. So far no additional documents asked and no response from consulate. Do you know how long this process will go? it has been 5 months no response from consulate. I have verified with my employer and client no one contacted them so far. Do you know anyone who got approved with out asking any additional documents in additional administration process?

    Reply
    • Hi Lakshman,

      This looks like similar to mine situation, My interview was on 12th November 2012 and still waiting, its first time h1b visa case, white slip was given to me…on web site its showing still under admin processing….hope will get soon..wait is really killing now…

      thanks

      nirma

      Reply
      • I had interview at Mumbai consulate on Dec 13th. Given a blue slip asking additional documents. I submitted documents on Jan 5th. Havent heard anything since than.

        Reply
      • Hi Nirma,

        I have been in US for last 6 years. I have completed my 6th year and got my I-140 approved and filed extension based on my I-140 and have approved petition till February 2015. I work for direct client and is working with the client for last 4 years [EC].

        I have submitted all the possible documents that I could and still waiting to get response..

        -Lakshman

        Reply
      • lakshman – am also on the same situation. 6th year got my i140 approved and extension till 2015. my interview was on dec 30 @ kuwati us embassy. no update yet. so are you now in india ?

        Reply
    • Lakshman,
      Are you working in consulting model or as a full-time employee? I know few cases when 221g was issued for background verification and was later approved. However, there is no set processing time and in worst case scenario it can take even a year for to know the decision.

      Reply
      • Hi Sourabh,

        I am in consulting firm which has direct client,i.e i don’t have any other layer in between my employer and client. Employer is Vendor to the client.

        My case situation has some complexity. Initially I went to Mexico for my stamping on September 19th 2012 and during the interview time VO told me that he doen’t have enough information about my employer to process my visa and told me to visit home country for stamping.

        So I came back to US on temp I-94 [30 days ] as my earlier Visa got expired. I came to India on October 19th 2012 and attended my visa interview on 26th October 2012.

        During the visa interview they have asked me what happened in Mexico and I have explained the same that VO told me at the time of my interview in Mexico. Chennai consulate VO’s told me that they doesn’t have time to go through all the documentation and send me to the different window in which Indian officer was there and took all the documents copies and noted down all the details of previous employers and client details and hand over me the white slip with admin processing is checked.

        They have returned all my original documents and passport and kept all the copies of my documents. Since then there is no update in my case contacted them multiple time using the help desk numbers in ustraveldocs.com website and send several emails. No useful information was given its the same old statement its under process.

        I am thinking to apply for fresh H1b again with same employer and same client will there be any problem ?

        What if they put me again 221(g) with new H1b do I need to again wait for similar amount of time?

        Let me know your thoughts on this . Appreciate your help.

        Thanks,
        Lakshman

        Reply
        • Lakshan,
          You can file a cap-exempt petition through same employer. However, chances are it may also run into 221g just like the previous one. There is no set processing time and both 221g can take few weeks to several months to process.

          You can ask your employer/attorney in US to follow-up w/ DHS but it won’t help in speeding up the process.

          Reply
  27. i apply tourist visa with my wife in January 2013 in Mumbai in interview date my wife got visa on same time and they gave me yellow page 221g and they say take u time ur case is under processing whats that means could u explain me pls

    Reply
  28. Hi There,

    I had interview in month of april 2012 and petetioner was ready to file H1B for me. My petetioner filed my H1B and it got approvd in oct month 2012. but in the month of june/july i lost my job here in india and due to shoulder injury i took long break. currentl im doing a freelance project for a company here in india.

    Will i face any probs in getting H1B visa as iam not a ful time employe as before petetioner filed my H1B? Any sugestions please…Appreciate…

    Reply
    • Raj123,
      It is not required to be a fulltime employee in your home country at the time of H-1 interview. Just respond truthfully.

      Reply
      • Hey Saurabh,

        Thanks for your swift response. I appreciate ..just wannaa check if you have come across same kind query from any one near time…i would like to know how was their experience in consulate…

        Any one , plz share your experience…

        Thanks,
        Raj

        Reply
    • Phal,
      If you have lost job, then your employer no longer supports your H-1. You should look for alternate employers, have them file cap-exempt H-1 for you and then go to US on H-1 through them.

      Reply
  29. I got 221(g) white slip 2 my months back, during this process can i change my Employer
    and re-file or submit the new required documents with Petitioner change as well as Client
    Is it possible ? what would be the impact of this change ? PLease reply

    Reply
    • Raaj,
      Yes, another employer can file a cap-exempt petition for you. Once approved, you can appear for stamping through the new employer.

      Reply
      • Thanks saurabh, i should not reply to that 221 g email and change the employer from there i can file the cap exempt with differant client invite. any idea how long this will take ?

        Reply
        • Raaj,
          If you have the documents for current 221g, then you can submit them and let it continue processing (maybe it will get approved).

          Meanwhile, another employer can file cap-exempt petition for you and then appear for stamping (unless the 1st one gets approved). Petition processing can take 2-6 months under regular processing, and 15 calendar days under PP (not including RFE time).

          Reply
  30. Hi Saurabh,
    I was given a case number in this format:
    2013 xxx xxxx
    Which do not match the format for visa status check.
    I was interviewed on 01 Feb 2013, can you help?

    Thanks,
    Riz

    Reply
      • Hi Saurabh,

        Can you confirm the consulate phone numbers? I got interviewed at Delhi.

        As per the CEAC visa status tool, the case number should be like following:
        2013xxx xxx xxxx

        I’m checking the status using my Application ID and it is showing ‘In Process’.
        But I saw one update in this forum where the status differs when Case number entered.

        Just trying all I can do 🙂

        Thanks for a prompt support,
        Riz

        Reply
        • Rizwan,
          I don’t know the numbers, but you can get them from Delhi Embassy website or from their new visa scheduling site (usatraveldocs).

          Reply
  31. Hey Surabh,

    I was in US in L1 status almost 4 years and 6 months with a well known IT company and applied for a change of status to H1B through a small desi consultancy and got approved for 1 year and 6 months on last October. In fact I had returned to India on last September due to family commitment and could not return to US in H1B due to 221G issue and last month my petitioner responded for the 221g and waiting for the response from the consulate. Meanwhile this April I am thinking to apply for a new H1B through a different desi consultancy in new quota so I will get a new H1B with fresh 6 years from coming October since I would complete 1 year stay in India by that time. So my question is

    1) What will happen to my existing H1B when I apply for new H1B? I don’t want to lose the existing one since it may get 221g cleared at any time.
    2) Should I cancel my existing H1B before applying for new H1B?
    3) What is your suggestion?

    Thanks for your help every time.

    Reply
    • Sumash,
      I recently read on an attorney’s website that 6 years clock is reset only when the person has stayed outside US for more than 1 year before applying for H-1 visa. As you left US in Sep 2012, your clock is reset only if new cap-subject H-1 is applied after Sep 2013. You can confirm this w/ an attorney as well.

      If you apply another cap-subject petition, you can let the current petition as is. The employer holding that H-1 petition can decide whether to withdraw it or not (you cannot withdraw petition, only employer can).

      Reply
  32. Hello Every one,

    One Good News , Today I got my H1-B Visa after a long wait of 5 months.
    I had my interview on Sep 28th 2012 and issued 221g white slip, After long wait of 5 months got a mail from HYDCEA@state.gov to submit my passport on Feb14th 2013 and got my passport with Visa stamping on Feb 20th 2013.

    So all the people who received 221g be with patience next will be your turn.

    All the Best.

    Regards
    Malathi Reddy

    Reply
    • Hi Malathi,

      During these 5 months, how were you following up with them? Did you send any email , if yes to which email id?

      Is your US petitioner same as your current company?
      Did they gave you all documents that you submitted at the time of interview?

      Thanks!

      Reply
      • Hi,

        I use to call them regularly on there call center numbers and write queries to support@ustraveldocs.com than they will update the status.

        My US Petitioner is different from current employer and they have given me all the docs what ever I have submitted.

        If you need any other updates pls write to me.

        Malathi Reddy

        Reply
        • In between these 5 months did consulate people ask you to submit any additional documents apart from the documents that you submitted during your interview time.?

          Because I was also in similar situation attended my visa interview on October 26th 2012 and got 221g white slip with additional administration processing and so far no email/ no one contacted my employer or client and no additional documents requested.

          Appreciate your help. Please let me know

          Thanks,
          Lak

          Reply
  33. Hi Saurabh,

    I was in touch with you regarding my 221 g case which was issued in novmeber ’12 and I was asked to submit court documents for my DWI charges which were dropped. In mean time I lost my job last month. Also I was on probation for my obstruction of highway misdemeanor. since i dint physically report to my probation officer due to delay in visa, I violated the term of probation and there is chance of arrest warrant issued against my name( that’s the procedure) even though they know i am stuck because of visa issues.
    So i emailed the mumbai counsalte office and asked them what should i do as i need to appear in front of judge and clear my charges as well as wind up my stuff.

    this is there response. Can you please advise should i apply for traveler’s visa or student visa. as its difficult to get the h1 job in my field from here in India. I can show strong ties to come back to india as i have my family business here.
    REsponse
    “Dear Sir,

    Unfortunately, if your position of employment is no longer guaranteed by the employer, you will have to reapply for another visa for travel to the United States. I encourage you to reapply with another approved petition should you wish to work in the United States. The prior charges that came up during your visa application process this time have been cleared up, so, if you reapply, the process will likely go more smoothly for you. However, since the petition that is the basis of this application is no longer valid (since there is no longer qualifying employment), you must reapply with another approved petition and pay the required visa fees. We hope this information helps, and sorry that you lost your job because of the delay in the processing of your visa application.

    Sincerely,

    Consular Information Unit”

    Reply
    • Anish,
      If you know employers in US in your field, then they can also file H-1 for you although it may be tough to get recruited w/o in-person interview. The next best option is B-1 visa. You can submit the documents related to your probation case to get the visa. F-1 may not work out as you will have to first get enrolled in a school and then apply for F-1.

      Good luck!

      Reply
      • thanks saurabh,

        i had talk with my immigration lawyer and he told me that i should not consider applying for any non immigrant visa like b1 or f1 soon as they can question my intent even if i can show strong ties of coming back to india as i had been in usa for last 5 years and also my h1 status got approved. however he said its my decision whether to apply for it or not. He also said that if i apply for h1 or L1 then my chances of them approving the visa is higher.

        looking at the response from the embassy i feel that i should act now and take my chances as i need to clear the probation violation charges and wind up my stuff. what is your opinion ??

        Reply
        • Anish,
          H-1 and L-1 may take time to process, and may not get approved if you don’t qualify for that visa. B-1 is a faster route and worth the risk and money. H-1/L-1 is more expensive.

          Reply
  34. Hi Sourabh

    last week I checked the 221g status with 221g query number (2012xxx-xxx-0001). Till now I was checking query through other number (AAxxxxxxx). Its first time I checked the status with (2012xxx-xxx-0001). Now there is difference in the status of both.
    (2012xxx-xxx-0001) shows me Issued and last updated on oct-30-2012 and other query number (AAxxxxxx) shows administration process last updated on Oct-26-2012. I am not sure what is the right status.
    I did send an email to consulate but did not get useful information. Please advice?

    Thanks
    GN

    Reply
          • Thanks sourish

            with the given link I can only track my case through application id and 221g query number given by the visa officer. I am not able to find the option to key the passport number. please help ?

          • GN,
            You are right. It doesn’t uses passport for tracking. And I assume you are already using your application number and 221g# on this site. In that case, it’s better to wait for consulate to revert back to you w/ correct status.

            BTW, why are you using so many variations of my name? Is it that difficult to spell?

          • Thanks for your feedback and help. I did send an email to consulate any looking for some meaningful response.
            No your name is not at all hard for me write and Spell. Its a typo. Sorry for that…

          • Hi Saurabh

            Finally after 4 month of long wait got H4 approval on 22 feb and got back the passport on 24 feb.
            Thanks for your support & help…

  35. I have attended my interview two and a half months back and they have taken my passport and all the paperwork and gave me a white slip. Unfortunately my contract with the client ended a week back which was also mentioned in the inquiry sent by USCIS to my client. The USCIS called me and told me we have you paperwork here but it says you contract ended a couple days back. What should i do now? Please advise.

    Reply
    • Shal,
      Your employer needs to find a new client, file LCA for that client location followed by H-1 amendment. Then you need to submit all this information to consulate against your 221g case. Or you can re-appear for another interview w/ the amended petition.

      Reply
  36. One of my colleague has got 221g from Mumbai consulate & I have filled my DS-160 & paid my visa fee in Mumbai consulate & now I only have to take my Visa Interview Date. I just want to ask that can I appear for Interview in Mumbai consulate? or I have to wait till he clears his quarry
    please reply me as soon as possible.
    I need your valuable suggestion.

    Reply
  37. One of my colleague has got 221g, he applied in same US company which i have applied. He appeared in Chennai Visa Consulate for H1B and waiting to get response from them. My employer is saying that you cant appear for the H1b in Mumbai Consulate until he receive’s his decision. So, can anybody tell me that is that correct? or I can appear for an interview in Mumbai Consulate.

    Reply
  38. hi…
    i got a mail asking to send my passport 1 month back.till date i did not receive any response from them.did the same thing happen to anybody else

    Reply
    • Bujji,
      You can enter your passport number on CEAC tracking website to see where the process is. It doesn’t provide too many details though.

      Reply
  39. H4-221 g white slip

    Hi my wife got 221g query on 26 oct 2012. Consular requested for petition, employer letter and other client letter. we submitted all the doc including passport on 12th dec 2012. It’s already 50 day passed no response. I am continuously checking online 221g case status every day.
    Current status is

    administration processing
    case created 25th oct 2012
    status updated 26th oct 2012

    I have no clue whether embassy stared looking in to our case. last updated status is 26th oct 2012 and we had submitted the doc on 12th Dec 2012.
    Please advice what going on? how long we have to wait more?

    Thanks
    GN

    Reply
    • GN,
      Unfortunately there is no set processing time. You have to continue to wait. Even if you follow-up w/ consulate or DHS, chances are they will not provide any meaningful information. Once 60 days have elapsed, your attorney in US can try contacting DHS (again don’t be too hopeful). As a last resort, you can contact your senator here in US and request for help. It used to help in faster processing but off late it has been used so much that DHS has stopped giving it any preference.

      Reply
        • Sourabh

          Could you please guide me is there possibility to get H4 soon, if I’ll apply again after 60 days?Is there need to withdraw current petition?

          Thanks
          GN

          Reply
          • Hi GN,

            I am waiting for my wife H4 visa(since 09-Jul-2012) for close to 7 months still no updates and it is still on admin process. Please let me know if you could find any way to get the H4 visa soon.

            Thanks

        • GN,
          You can apply for another visa even before 60 days. There is no wait period. The wait period is for attorney in US to follow-up w/ DHS.

          If you apply for H-4 again w/ the same petition (w/ or w/o withdrawing the petition), then there is a strong possibility that it will also be put into 221g like the first one.

          Reply
          • Saurabh

            we have another concern. we had submitted the passport at the time of submitted the visa documents. So if we go for reapplying the visa, definately we have to ask consulate to return the our passport.
            If we ask embassy to return the passport, is there any negtive impact on the existing 221g case

          • What is the procedure to get the passport back? If we dont want VISA, then is there any way that we can get our passport.
            I have submitted few other origina documents unfortunately, related to my job experience. Will I be getting them back also?

          • how can you get your passport back? Whom you will be asking and what is the procedure? I too need to get it back from Delhi consulate….

          • GN,
            I am not sure if it will have a negative impact or not. You can say that you have plans to travel to another country and need the passport back. Once you have the passport, then decide what to do w/ it.

          • Thanks Sourabh for your valuable feedback and time.
            I will post the result here.

            Kin
            You have to call consulate and find out the procedure to get back the pass. They asked me to came to visa office and drop a letter.

          • Hi GN,

            Did you get back your wife’s passport? Pls let me know the procedure. I am also thinking of reapplying for H4 visa for my wife again.

            Thanks

  40. we appeared for visa interview in mumbai on 23 march 2012,they giave us 221g paper & asked to submit our passport with them,but we told them as we not lived now in india,already worked i & stayed in QATAR then counsellor told us that we informed you ,no need to comeback india you send your passport from there to your relatives & they submit to vfs
    we received letter from embassy in may 2012 & we submitted the blood relation affidavit & passport again as per thier requirement to vfs,ahmedabad,they told us within 7 days you will received your passport back but
    they return our passport after 9 months & wrote that still your administration process continue when it will done we inform you,please let me know because in march 2013 we complete one year as they wrote in the 221g paper if you not submit the required document within one year your application will cancelled but they did not ask any document to us & still process continue since 9 months
    on website they told after 60 days you can enquire about your status but no body reply how much time will they still wants to take,please inform me on
    tanisha_shah2004@yahoo,com
    Many Thanks,
    Kamal

    Reply
    • Kamal,
      Unfortunately, there is not much you can do except to contact them to follow-up on the case. Your attorney in US can also follow-up w/ DHS to get an update. There is no set processing times and in worst case scenario it can take several months or even years.

      Reply
      • Dear Saurabh,
        Many Thanks for the reply,if you get further more information in future,please let me know,appreciate you lot,Its ridiculous system by them,it gives too much hectic to the people unnecessarily

        Reply
      • Dear Saurabh,
        we appeared for visa interview in mumbai on 23 march 2012,they giave us 221g paper & asked to submit our passport with them,but we told them as we not lived now in india,already worked i & stayed in QATAR then counsellor told us that we informed you ,no need to comeback india you send your passport from there to your relatives & they submit to vfs
        we received letter from embassy in may 2012 & we submitted the blood relation affidavit & passport again as per thier requirement to vfs,ahmedabad,they told us within 7 days you will received your passport back but
        they return our passport after 9 months & wrote that still your administration process continue when it will done we inform you,please let me know because in 23-03-2013 we complete 1 year as they wrote in the 221g paper if you not submit the required document within 1 year your application will cancelled but they did not ask any document to us & still process continue since 1year,so i need to write them as 1 yr complete on the 23rd march u did not ask for any document to us till date,after 23-03-2013 they will ask that 1 yr complete & yr application cancelled
        on website they told after 60 days you can enquire about your status but no body reply how much time will they still wants to take,please inform me on
        tanisha_shah2004@yahoo,com
        Many Thanks,
        Kamal

        Reply
        • kamal ramanlal shah,
          That 1 year window is for you to respond to the 221g document. Once you have responded to that document within that 1 year window, there is no more specific time period. They can take few months or more than a year, but it will not cancel the visa petition.

          As this is taking so long, you should discuss w/ your employer/attorney about alternative like filing another petition and then appearing for stamping through that petition.

          Reply
    • KK,
      You can contact the consulate to know if they have more information, but chances are that they will not provide anything new. Your attorney can try to follow-up w/ DHS to know when the files were sent to USCIS and then w/ USCIS to know how soon they will be updated in the system.

      At times, it is faster to get a new petition filed (as a back-up) than to go through this process.

      Reply
      • Saurabh, thanks for your suggestion. You were right on the consulate’s response: they would say nothing but the automatic reply. My lawyer told me not to borther them too much in case of pissing them off. However her also seems does not know which branch of DHS he should contact except the USCIS hotline. He said he can act only when the case is back to USCIS. Do you have any idea whoelse I can contact in DHS?

        About filing a new O1 petition, my concern is that the consulate may reject it as the previous one, since I don’t know their comment yet. Unfortunately, O1 is my only choice.

        Reply
        • KK,
          I don’t know about O1 petition. I was referring to another H-1 petition.

          I don’t know the specific phone number, but you can call them at the number listed on their site and ask for guidance.

          Reply
          • Dear Saurabh
            My file finally reached USCIS on Feb 25th,2013. It did take 2 months sailing over the sea…….However there is no update ever since. I enlisted help from a US senator’s office but seems it didn’t help much. It’s a little strange that none of my petitioner nor my lawyer got any notice from USCIS for reciving the files or other informations. Any idea what is going on in USCIS’s office? Thanks!

          • hi Imran ,
            I checked my case status on USCIS website using my case receipt number. It turned from decision to post-decision activity

          • Hi KK,
            Thanks for you quick reply.

            When I am trying to get information for my case receipt number which was wrote by consulate on below link, it’s don’t show my case number in “ Case Status Report.pdf ” and this PDF is updated till 15th Apr 2013. My interview date was 10th Apr 2013.
            http://mumbai.usconsulate.gov/case-status.html

            and when tried to search my case number on
            https://egov.uscis.gov/cris/Dashboard/CaseStatus.do
            link its showing “The application receipt number entered is invalid. Please check your receipt number and try again”.
            Please guide me and let me know the best way to track my 221(g) yellow case.
            Thanks in advance..

          • hi Imran ,
            Sorry I don’t know neither. I was using the case number starts with “EAC”, not my interview number. You might want to try.

          • Dear Saurabh
            It’s more than a month since last update and I still didn’t get anything from USCIS. Any guesses what’s happening here? Thanks!

          • KK,
            Unfortunately its a black box. One cannot guess what’s going on. Usually they process it within few weeks, but may be overloaded w/ new petitions that have been filed in April.

  41. Saurabh,

    i have a question regarding the 221g waiting process time. On the consulate site, it is mentioned that after 60 days we contact the consulate regarding our visa process. Does 60 days imply only working or both working and non-working days too? I have heard a different view from my friend. so wanted to clarify it here. I have attended the interview on Nov 30th, 2012 at New Delhi and consular gave me white 221g to submit physical panel reports. All those required documents were submitted by the Hospital and reached the consulate around Dec 13th, 2012. I still haven’t heard back anything from the consulate yet. Some people are saying it would take a minimum of 6weeks. After 60days of time, how can we contact the consulate?

    Reply
    • VN,
      There is no set processing time. I don’t know why they have published that when they don’t adhere to it. Still, if they have mentioned 60 days they refer to days after all the documents have been submitted and is calendar days (includes holidays).

      But like I said, its just a number which is hardly honored.

      Reply
  42. Hi
    I didn’t any slip, he just gave me a check list of documents which I need to submit via email or through american express. He also kept my passport … the thing is that He did give me any slip. Is it necessary to have the slip or its ok If he gave me only the list of documents which needs to be submitted??

    Please reply …

    Reply
  43. hi guy i submited for f1 visa on interview date they ask me some queston and they give me yellow slip and my wife got visa on next day my case is pending they issue me a yellow slip could u tell me what is a sign good or bed can u give me reason

    Reply
  44. Hi Surabh,

    Last year when I was in US I applied for L1 to H1 change of status and I got H1 approved for 1 year and 6 months since I had already spent 4 years and 6 months in US in L1 status. Being in L1 status I came to India on Last September and planning to get my H1 stamping done on next month. If I delay my US travel to next October (1 year break in India) can I stay 6 years in H1B status or only 1 year and 6 months?

    Reply
    • Sumash,
      Only the time spent inside US is counted towards the 6 year clock. So it is possible your petition is valid for just 6 more months by the time you enter on H-1, but your employer can file for extension to capture the time so that you spent 1 year 6 months on H-1.

      Reply
  45. Dear Saurabh,
    After long wait, I got the confirmation from Delhi Consulate to have a meeting after Petition Reaffirmation. They only asked for passport, I797B and Reaffirmed Petition Notice.
    Saurbah,
    1. Can you please guide what thing I need to take care?
    2. What documents, I must carry?
    Thanks so much for your support and response.

    Reply
    • Delihi_24_April,
      Although your petition has been reaffirmed do not take this lightly. Carry same documents as before (if you can get a recent version of the documents, then carry those). Also carry all documentation related to the reinstated petition – any letter your employer sent to USCIS, any documents USCIS sent to your employer etc. I don’t think there will be too many questions, but you should be prepared w/ same questions like first interview.

      Good luck!

      Reply
      • Dear Saurabh,
        1. My petition is expiring on 10-Feb-2013. Will this effect my meeting?
        2. Once I got the stamping and my petition expires, what should I do?

        Please revert.

        Thanks

        Reply
        • Delihi_24_Apri,
          1. It is possible that they put it in administrative processing asking for extended petition.
          2. Once the petition expires, your employer will have to file for H-1 extension (cap-exempt). Once the visa expires and if you are still outside US, then you will have to re-appear for stamping after getting the petition extended.

          Reply
          • Saurabh,

            What if I have another approved petition till 2014 from different employer available, Will that help after Visa Stamping?

            Thanks

          • Delihi_24_April,
            Are you planning to go for stamping through this employer or the other one? They will consider only the petitions of the employer you are planning to work for.

          • Saurabh,
            Currently, I hold 2 petitions.
            1. Petition 1 went under 221G and reaffirmed. I got the email from USCIS to attend the Interview. This petition will expire on 10-Feb-2013.
            Now, after stamping, my employer has to ask for extension of petition? If yes, in that case, will again I have to appear for interview?
            2. Now, let us assume, I got the stamping for above petition, In that case, my 2nd petition from different employer has any importance?
            Please rever.
            Thanks!!

          • Delihi_24_April,
            1. Yes, they will first file for petition extension. Once approved you will have to appear for stamping again.
            2. No, that petition is of no use unless you plan to work for that employer.

          • Hi Saurabh,
            I am really really disappointed on my H1b case. My H1B Interview happened on 24-April-2012. My case was put on hold under 221G. My Petition is reaffirmed on 14-Nov-2012. My petition was expiring on 10-Feb-2013. Received response from Consulate for re-interview on 16-Jan-2013. I went for stamping on 27-Jan-2013. I got my Passport on 4th Feb 2013. When I checked the Approved H1B VISA, I got the stamping only from 01-Feb-2013 to 10-Feb-2013 (So practically only for 4 business days).
            What should I do? And to whom I speak? Please suggest.
            Thanks

          • Delhi_24_April,
            Now, your employer will have to file for cap-exempt petition (aka H-1 extension) and once approved you will have to appear for visa stamping. It is another round of wait and anxiety, but that’s how the immigration system works.

  46. Hi Surabh,

    My H1B interview ended up with White slip on November since I could not provide the Client DoU document when VO asked. It looks like my petitioner is delaying to respond for the White slip. My questions is

    1) In case if they don’t respond for the white slip within a year what will happen? Will my petition and visa permanently get rejected?
    2) Can my petitioner withdraw my H1B petition? Or can they use my H1B approved cap to apply for another candidate who is already in US?

    Reply
    • Sumash,
      1. Most likely, consulate will send the information to USCIS for further reconsideration. USCIS can then either revoke the petition or reinstate it.
      2. Yes, they can withdraw the petition. Even if they do that, you can still use it to have another employer file cap-exempt petition for you in future. They cannot use your cap number for another employee of theirs.

      Reply
  47. I had my visa interview at delhi consulate and following things happened
    1. It was terrible cold (2 to 4 degrees) and we stood in a long queue at 7:45, my interview slot was at 8AM.
    2. Once we were allowed inside, they (at a screening counter) kept my passport, I797 approval notice and DS160 together and asked me to go inside the big hall where interviews were happening
    3. My number displayed on board and there was a instructor who mentioned me to go to a counter
    4. At around 8:30 AM, a lady visa officer took my interview
    a) I work for a big organization and my visa sponsor was from a small US based company
    b) VO asked me how long I’m with my current organisation follwoed by following questions

    -> Why do you want to move from a big organuzation to a small company?
    -> How big is the small company? how many employees work there?
    -> how you got to know about this sponsor
    -> who paid for your visa petition
    -> who is the owner of the company
    -> what are the documents that you have related to your sponsor?
    -> what else documents you have?

    At the end, she mentioned that she wont be able to take a decision immediately. Please leave the documents and you may go home now, we will get back to us….

    She took all documents, passport and did not issue any coloured slips….

    puzzled and I’m not sure when will I receive the passport back, am not worried about VISA though..I know that it got screwed up 🙂

    Reply
  48. I had my O1 interview on Oct 15 2012 and was told that the case was being administration processing.On Dec 23rd,2012 I got a letter from US consulate says that my petition has been returned to USCIS for reconsideration and possible revocation. The consular officer stated that they need to determine I am fully meet the qualification of the visa category. My petitioner called USCIS yesterday but USCIS said they haven’t got the petition yet. How long it would take for the petition to arrive USCIS office? How when can the files be on the desk of the one who originally approved my petition?

    Reply
    • KK,
      They should receive it within few weeks (say up to 30 days). It may or may not be assigned to the original officer who approved the petition.

      Reply
      • Thank you very much Saurabh! It’s almost 20 days but they still didn’t get it, I just hope they can start reviewing again. Any idea how long will this re-consideration will take?

        Reply
          • Hmmm, that’s horrible….which means I can’t have a timeline for my plan, right? Is there any way/anyone we can enlist to help speeding up this process? Thanks!

          • KK,
            There is no way to speed up the process. Your attorney can follow-up w/ USCIS but it won’t fasten the processing.

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