Home » US Immigration - Visas » What is 221g ? Process, How long to Resolve, Delay, Issues, FAQs

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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2,073 Comments

  1. Hi

    I attended H1-b visa interview last Thursday and was issued a 221-g, your application is going through needed administrative processing. I was stunned because I wrong for a top tech company as a full time employee. I reviewed and started searching in all my docs to uncover what must have triggered a 221g.

    I found that I made a mistake in DS 160 form for question

    Has anyone ever filed an immigrant petition on your behalf with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services?
    I selected “Yes”

    in the explain section I wrote “My company filed H1b petition and it was approved.”

    It was my mistake I misread the question as has someone filed non-immigrant visa.

    Now I am a worried and would like to know what are the possibilities will consulate verify with USCIS and find out that I wrongly selected YES while I should have selected NO. (or) will they outright reject the application?

    Thanks

    Reply
  2. I have given the Visa interview for H1B on 9th Aug 2017 and 10th Aug 2017. My case also got a 221g letter as my travel location is different from the one that is already approved for my petition. My company filed an LCA and they got that approved also, I have submitted all my documents on 11th Aug 2017 and then with the new LCA re-submitted all documents on 18th Sep 2017. I was about to travel in last week of August but waiting for Visa to get stamped. I am also getting some standard responses as stated by few people above. Any idea on how much time it will take and how to follow up more rigorously. Please help on this !!

    Reply
    • Hi my status on csec website change from adminstrative processing to application received plz tel what it means and is it good sign to get visa. Applying in May 2017 still waiting

      Reply
      • I am also on the same boat..don’t know whom we need to contact for further action..did you get any update from anyone on this issue ?

        Reply
          • Hey Hassim,

            This is good news, sounds like light end of the tunnel, congrats.
            When exactly you appeared\handed the 221g ? I am waiting since June 23rd status continues to be the same.

            Good Luck.

          • I apply in may 2017 in london. Got the visa but again i apply on my wife basis she got less n i got more what a joke.

          • What can a person do in such cases man, I myself stuck from 6 months where as later few candidates from same employer & client with same documents got the visa and travelled already.

            Purely bad luck ☹️

  3. Hello Team,

    My case is now hanging from 103 days, upon sending a general inquiry to US consulate Chennai today I got the below response, now this is a unusual response hence requesting any body having past experience with it please shed some light.

    “Please wait for the admin process to be completed, we will get in touch with you, We are unable to provide any time frame in your case.

    There are a few cases which have been refused for administrative processing but do not fall within the category of cases listed in the website and your case is one of those not in that category. ”

    This is a very unusual reply & there is very less on google about.

    Thanks in advance.

    Reply
        • Yeah, waiting since Jan 2017. Every 15 days sending follow up mails and getting default response.Yes its better move and think its just an option.

          Reply
      • I got this reply after 60 days now I am on day 74. When should I rewrite them? I am a J1 visa applicant for a postdoc.

        Dear Applicant:

        We would like to inform you that your visa application is refused for administrative processing. This processing is mandatory and cannot be expedited. While we understand your concern and probable frustration, we cannot speed things up. Your visa application will be reconsidered when the administrative processing is completed and we will notify you.

        You can check the status of your case by visiting our website at ceac.state.gov and type in your case number. The website is updated regularly to reflect the most recent status of your case.

        We are required to conduct administrative processing in many cases. Unfortunately, we cannot give a specific time frame during which processing will be completed, as each case is different and may require different processing than another case that may appear similar. While we recognize how frustrating these delays can be for applicants, please be assured we process each case as quickly as possible.

        We hope this information is helpful.

        Sincerely,

        Reply
      • I guess the situations under 221g for Indian citizens are the worst globally and it’s simply because of the type of visa common to them in their applications. India has the highest number of H1B visa applicants globally and this category of visa always calls for close scrutiny by Consular officers. I had a similar case in Lagos a few months ago. During my B1/B2 visa interview , the guy who interviewed me returned my passport to me and handed me a white 221g slip. He said he’d have to put my case under administrative processing and would contact me as soon as they’re done. Barely 60 days after my interview with them, I received an email requesting my passport for submission at the designated location. 3 days later I tracked my status on their website and saw that my case had been updated, meaning they’ve received my passport and started working on it. 7 calendar days after my case was updated, I saw another update with the word ‘Issued’ written in blue colour . 2 days later, I received both text message and email from the embassy that my passport was now ready for collection at the designated place, got there and met a visa stamp inside.

        Reply
      • Hello Raji,

        I think its started to make some sense to me now, so this one of those cases which are handed to private agencies for background checks, but generally they don’t go anywhere until the expiry of your petition.

        Ah, sorry to say this man, I think we should move on with other plans.

        Best of luck.

        Reply
        • Can you please let me know if you suggest me any other plan that we can move on. My current petition also is going to expiry in next month.

          Reply
          • Hey,

            Can find more about it if you google around much, however a candidate from my previous organisation had the same case, went for stamping in chennai Oct last year, got 221g nothing moved anywhere last month company attorney contact USICS in vermont & got the reply to file for a fresh petition as the outsourced agency couldn’t attend the case before the actual petition expired.

            Very sad & very painful, let the process running in the background but don’t rely on it or plan around it.

            Good Luck to all of us.

    • I also got a response saying that my visa application is refused for administrative processing. I didnt get it. I thought I got denied because of the word “refused” so I asked them to explain further . They replied that my visa application is still under administrative processing. Few weeks after that, they emailed me to go to the embassy to submit additional documents.

      Reply
  4. Any progress on someone’s case seeking a response on 221g/AP ?
    If you are visiting this page then please post an update.

    Good Luck ✌️

    Reply
    • Hi i got visa me n my wife apply together but i got 10 yr visa n my wife got only 1 year and on my wife visa it says clearence received 20 sep 2017 plz help me why i got more n she got less any printing mistake plz help.

      Reply
        • B1 b2 she is a scientist she apply for a conference and i apply with her and on her visa there is a not aswell it says clearance receveid dd/mm/2017

          Reply
          • Hassim, is you wife’s occupation related to any in technology alert list? If yes, then she might have got lesser duration than usual one.
            The reason of administrative processing could be related to that too.

  5. Dear Saurabh / Team

    In year 2012 when I went to US Consulate in Chennai, India for H1B stamping I got 221g slip asking more details about employer. I submitted all the required details and after 10 months I got a letter from consulate saying that I have failed to present documents required in connection with visa application and the petition is being returned to USCIS for review with the recommendation to be revoked and if the USCIS revoke the petition the beneficiary may become ineligible for a visa under 212(a)6(c)(i). After 2 months I saw petition status in USCIS website that “Revocation Notice Was Sent”. I did not take any action after that. Last week I went to US Consulate in Manama, Bahrain for B1/B2 visa stamping and visa officer denied visa with 214(b) pink slip. The reason officer given was I have submitted fraudulent offer letter in 2012 hence cannot issue visa this time. In fact I have not submitted anything fraud in my past petition and all the documents that I submitted was which I received from my petitioner. But not sure if my petitioner used any forged offer letter and petitioner is a small company mainly in manpower consulting. So how can I challenge and proceed now to get the US Business visa? In fact I have been in US in L1B visa for almost 5 years before this issue happens and I have US citizen daughter as well. Worried will it affect Green card application in future if my daughter sponsor me? Your great advice will be appreciated. Thanks!

    Reply
    • Immigration visa if you have immediate relative like daughter as citizen and she sponsors for your for green card, visa denied under 212 a(6) c can be applied for waiver n this will be waived off, consult good attorney

      May be you should have challenged the revoked petition in 2012 itself,

      Reply
  6. Hello All,
    The Ceac Status is:
    Case Created: 22/08/2017.
    Case Updated: 23/08/2017.
    Case Updated: 24/08/2017.
    And till today the dates are same and the status showing administrative process.
    I am in Merchant Navy and I applied for C1/D Visa at Mumbai Consulate. I went for biometrics on 22/08/2017 and for Consular interview on 23/08/2017 in Mumbai BKC. On 23rd during my interview consular asked for my passport and after that she told me, “you visited Iran” I have mentioned this on DS160 that I have visited Iran. Second question was “have you ever been given shore leave” i said yes then she asked for how many days i said only 1 time for 2 hours. These only two questions she asked me and when asking questions she was turning pages of my passports then she told me to wait, after 5 mins she came and directly gave me 221g blue form and told me to write on a piece of paper entry and exits dates clearly as in passport it was in persian language. I travelled to Iran for 3 contracts first was for 8 months and then 3 months home for rest the second for 10 months then 1 month rest last was for 6 months and now I am changing my company,so, I submitted 221g, written travel dates, passport and CDC on the same day 23/08/2017 at VAC Mumbai. Then after at 28/08/2017 i got email to collect my passport i checked the ceac status it was same administrative process. I picked my passport on 29th in that I again got 221g blue slip and in this was only administrative process was ticked and till now nothings has changed..
    Can you help me in my case how much time it will take?
    What process is going on till now?
    They will Issue me the visa?
    I am supposed to join on ship from Miami Port on 24/09/2017.

    Reply
    • Hi Mahavir

      I have a similar case . Travelled to iran and hence i was given 221 g form in march 2018. till now my case is on hold.

      Can you tell me what finally happened in your case?

      Regards
      Jigar Bhalani

      Reply
  7. Hi,
    I gave interview for J1 ( exchange visitor) visa at Hyderabad consulate on
    20-July-2017 . The VO gave me white slip and my visa is in administrative processing till today ( 54 days). The joining date for my post doc was 1 September 2017, moreover, my SEVIS will expire on 30 September. I am thinking of writing directly to Hyderabad consulate or I should write to USA travel docs.

    Reply
    • Hey Pramod,

      DO you have the direct contact id of consulate, If so do that, however I found there isn’t much difference in reaching out to either of them, try it.

      Should have tried already by now, if you dates are all passed then I would advice just inquire on your case (without mentioning the above details).

      Good Luck,
      ?

      Reply
      • Thanks for your reply. I had written previously to support@ustraveldocs.com around 10 days back. They asked me for the scan copy of my 221(g) but gave the standard reply of AP from consulate general Hyderabad. I will write them again.
        Regards

        Reply
  8. I have been working on H1B in US for past 10 years. Have gone through visa stamping several times without any issues. But this time I was issued white slip of 221G. Was asked to submit client letter. It has been more than 90 days and still no information about the same.

    Still in wait.

    Reply
    • Hey Vinny,

      Am also in the same boat. i have submitted the documents and its been 110 days but still no response from chennai consulate. post here if you get any update or touch with me through rajimatics@gmail.com. Please make sure about your petition expire date. if it is soon (~90 days) start your extension process through your employer.

      Good Luck. Hope will get good news soon.

      Thanks,
      Raji

      Reply
  9. I had my visa interview last week Friday. And my application was approved by the consular, however, I pleaded with the consular to allow me go with my passport as I needed it for an exam next day. He then handed me the 212g and he wrote on the form ‘send in ppt for issuance’. I had sent in the pssport thru the DHL collection Centre here in Nigeria. But my visa application status on the portal still reads ‘administrative processing’ and I have less than 2 weeks to travel.

    Please can anyone explain what’s happening

    Reply
  10. Did anything moved for anybody seeking a response of AP ?
    If you are visiting this page then please post an update.

    Good Luck,
    ??

    Reply
    • After administrative processing they ask me to submit my passport and travel dates but the problem is if i submit my passport and travel dates my passport is not valid now for 6 months what i do now i submit passport n travel dates or i renew my passport n send them both passport as they say when they send me mail in 4 month time i need to submit my passport what i do plz help.

      Reply
      • Hasim,

        My personal opinion would be to visit passport office and try to find out the fastest possible way to get the renewal, from my past experience I doesn’t take more then 3 – 4 weeks (including the time speedpost take to deliver at your address).

        Since its now managed by TCS mostly there are supervisors on floor to have a quick word, so no harm in getting a realistic time frame for renewal.

        This may cause some unease as I remember ds160 somewhere mentions to have a passport validity of atleast 6 months.

        I would also suggest you make a call the mentioned helpline number to consult the same with them.

        Overall you are in a good position now, have you got update after you made inquiry about your case ? (If yes how did you do that ? call or mail ?)

        Good Luck ??

        Reply
        • Thanks i apply in london and this is second time they ask my passport first time i send them but my travel dates r passed n than send new one but still they do further administrative processing so i tell to send my passport back n they send then aswell so this is second time they ask my passport i am communicating with them through email the same they gave me when i apply n there response is really good they reply everytime i contact them within a day time get the answer. Now i decide to renew passport here in uk n than send them both passport n travel dates as i have 4 month time to send is thia right any suggestion?

          Reply
          • Hasim

            “Now i decide to renew passport here in uk n than send them both passport n travel dates” This is what I originally wanted to suggest you at the first place, I think that the best way forward.

            Good Luck,
            ?

          • Thanks for your help one more think how to send travel dates without booking and plz tell what to include in it like hotel booking places to visit i am totally confused in it plz help.

          • Hasim,

            What kind of Visa have you applied for???
            Me and Wife applied for H1B and H4 visa on August 06 in London . VO said visa approved and kept our passport its 7 week now but still no answer. Trying to reach them to get answer but not getting any answers….

            Can some one share any similar experience in London

    • Hello everyone,

      I went for my H4 interview on July 20, 2017 along with my spouse who had H1 interview. VO asked all the required questions to my spouse and said we are good to go. She didn’t ask me anything. My husband’s H1B got issued next day but my visa is still pending under administrative processing.. I have contacted the support team twice during this time and every time getting the same response. I need to wait.

      Is anybody else in the same situation? They haven’t even asked for any documents. Its my 5th time visa stamping. Never had any issues..

      Reply
      • Swati,

        I don’t know\think there is much that you could do besides calling the mentioned number or mailing to them.

        Inquiry goes to a private outsourced firm who further get the status from consulate and responds you accordingly.

        on 221g form there is US number mentioned, the call goes directly to a visa office, applicant needs to make call by him\herself, I would suggest you try that.

        Also in case your passport was kept by officer during interview then you can call VFS office directly to get the status.

        Good Luck,
        ?

        Reply
  11. Hi All,
    My wife went for H4 stamping in Hyderabad today (8/14).
    Received 221g white slip. NO documents asked.
    VO told she will receive passport in week.

    She was in US on H4 for about 3 years before going to India. This is her second h4. first one got it approved same day.

    What could be possible reasons for 221g white slip for h4 visa? no documents asked. There are very limited information on h4 221g as most are for h1b.

    Can someone provide guidance on this? Also, will this in anyway impact my employment. I have i797 approved with good US based company.

    Reply
  12. I had immigrant visa interview in July where I was given a 221g letter asking to submit more documents. I submitted all the documents along with passport on August the 1st. August 12th, I received another letter to say they will continue the administrative process and returned my passport. Does anyone know what is the process now? How long does this take now? Does this mean denial or do we still have hope?

    Reply
    • Hey,

      Were you asked at first time to submit passport?

      Norm is to submit the documents alone and wait for them to make decision, once status updates asking to submit passport then you proceed.

      They verify all the documents and then makes a call, the process is first in first out basis hence there ain’t any time.

      For the fortune ones asked to submit the passport during interview it works out in 8 – 10 days, otherwise you can’t really predict (visit the 221g tracker above to get a general idea about waiting period)

      Overall it’s an extremely painful process.

      Good Luck ??

      Reply
  13. Hi I am a potential Immigrant as my petition for immigration is under process and had been filed by my grandmother for the complete family. Here is my experience in trying to acquire an F1 during this process.
    I have completed my undergrad from Hyderabad ( B.E. in EEE ) , Grew up in Saudi Arabia. Below is me experience with the visa process.
    US Consulate General Hyderabad
    OFC date – 7th July 2017
    Visa Interview Date- 17th July 2017 (11.30 am)
    221(g) Letter Given – Case created 14th July ( Even before my interview date ) that could be due to TAL or immigration or common muslim name.

    VO – Good Afternoon ( as it was 1200)
    Me- Good Afternoon
    VO- Please pass the i20 and pass ( checks and starts typing )
    VO- How many siblings do you have
    Me- told
    VO- May I know the year of completion for your undergrad
    Me- 2017
    VO- have you worked anywhere ?
    Me- No sir
    VO- Who is going to sponsor your education ?
    Me- My Father
    VO- How ?
    Me- He had Saved for my education
    VO- Its a very expensive private college , do you think you should burden him ?
    Me- Well he is doing it for my passion and interest to gain more knowledge , I don’t think its really going to pinch him.
    VO- Do you plan to work in the States ?
    Me- Given an opportunity I will look to gain more practical knowledge legally
    VO – Give me a min sir, ( pulls out a white letter and starts writing something ) ……. Sir we cannot come to any decision yet , as we can see your immigration is filed you will have to go through a regular process sir for us to decide the eligibility.
    Me – ( confused ) Does that mean its a rejection ?
    VO- no sir please follow the guidelines on the letter. you will hear from us soon and please reply to that email, it will help us decide your visa case.
    Me- ( still confused ) – Alright Sir , Thankyou.
    3.30 pm . Received Questionnaire requesting last 15 years of travel history , passport details and contact numbers along with social media handles and email addresses
    Replied on 18th July 2017 at 2.53 am , automated response recorded and email received with acknowledgement
    Now was the most frustrating wait period , was going through several 221 g cases and wait time was terrible , I was just hoping I didn’t had to defer my admission.
    26th July 2017 – Case updated on CEAC tracker , Seemed like a positive sign and was hoping I would get some email the following day
    27th July at 3.30 pm email received to submit passport at the VAC centre
    submitted passport – 28th July with submission letter 221g letter and email copy around 4 pm ( was told to keep checking status on the tracker )
    31st July- Case updated again, Now this was confusing as my application was still in AP and passport had been submitted already as requested by them.
    1st August 2017 – Case updated again and status changed to issued and received and email saying passport ready for pickup .

    Well these 14-15 days were really stressful but eventually worth the wait. its all a matter of patience as they are more concerned about their security . to all those who are stuck with 221 g here’s wishing you a speedy process and Goodluck on your approvals.

    Reply
    • You were really lucky to have heard back in such a short period, however I have learned that consulate has been quit generous to the students in recent past years as most of them has got a response before the disclosed travel date to consulate.

      You were really lucky again as: As per the rule when any type of immigration/visa is filed already with one country you can’t just open another thread, but again since its a study permit, officer touched this point and just never dug deep.

      Anyhow Good Luck for your studies ?

      Reply
  14. Hi Team,
    June 1st had a H1b visa interview and they issued 221g and asked additional documents required .
    on June 29th got a email to submit the passport as administrative process is complete. Submitted passport at Mumbai office on July 10th.

    Today……. when I check the visa status still it shows “Your visa case is currently undergoing necessary administrative processing” at

    https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx?eQs=WwjqOlbeRYzCYubaSQI+RA==

    IF administrative process is completed (as mentioned in email) then why it is delayed so?
    IF process is not completed why they asked for passport?

    Any one experience the same……….Please help ……

    thanks
    Abdul

    Reply
    • Hi Abdul,

      I have the same case. I got an email to submit my passport for 221g case as case is closed and I submitted my passport on 20th July and they told me that I will get my passport back in 3-4 days but I still didnt get it back and the status is under Administrative Processing.

      Did you get you passport back?

      Dishank

      Reply
  15. Hi Sourabh,

    Last month, I came to India and attended visa interview for stamping in Hyderabad on June 16th, 2017. But Visa officer gave me 221g for “Administrative processing” and till now no updates on this.

    I have changed my employer in march 2017 and the petition with new employer is approved from march,2017 to Feb 2020 . this new petition is in 221g stage now. The previous employer visa is valid till sept, 2017.

    1. Shall I go back USA with previous employer’s visa (previous employer visa is valid till sept, 2017)? will POE officer allow me?

    2.If I enter into USA and after some time my 221g would resolve, I need to travel India for stamping. How soon I need to send my passport to consulate for stamping?

    3. Instead, shall I wait in India for 2 more weeks and take decision based on my 221g status?

    Thanks a lot.

    Reply
    • If you have valid stamping in your passport you can travel back US.
      If POE officer asked for I797. you can show the latest approved petition. Then you will get the i94 till 2020.

      Reply
    • Your travel dates have now passed. If you still plan to travel to the U.S. you will need to submit a new detailed travel itinerary with the purpose of your trip, and date of travel. (You do not need to purchase an airline ticket). Your travel dates need to be valid when you travel to the U.S.

      If you no longer wish to travel, please let us know.

      Plz help what i do in this.

      They already have my passport from more than a month now i want my passport to apply for schgen visa for holland can i ask them to send my passport back and tell to let me know when there process done and send it again its really a headache.

      Reply
      • Hi Hassim,
        I didn’t understand your suggestion.

        “Your travel dates have now passed. If you still plan to travel to the U.S. you will need to submit a new detailed travel itinerary with the purpose of your trip, and date of travel. (You do not need to purchase an airline ticket). Your travel dates need to be valid when you travel to the U.S.”.

        Apologies for asking , Is it related to my query. ? if yes, please elaborate it.
        Thank you

        Reply
        • this the msg i got from the embassy. My travel dates was already pass on 9 june i got mail from them on 16 june to submit passport n travel dates but i only send them passport waiting for 1 month for passport i mail them they send me this so i send them detailed travel details on 13 july travelling on 11 august for 10 days to us but still they say they need more administrative processing if they want to do this again why they ask for passport clearly on there website it says when u send passport it takes 7 to 10 working days now i ask them to send my passport back n tell them when they finished there process i send them agian really never see this type of embassy r v going to US or some other planet soo much trouble.

          Reply
      • Hi Hasim,

        I am going through the same kind of problem at the London US embassy. did you get your passport? how long it took since you sent your passport? Thanks Sar

        Reply
        • Almost more than month i send it on 16 june yesterday i tell them i want my passport back when they done with there loong administrative processing i send it again .

          Reply
        • Hello SAR,

          Did you got your visa issued?
          We are in a similar situation had interviewed london August 7th and still no updates its on administrative processing.

          Thank you!

          Reply
  16. Hi there, I attended my F1 visa interview on July 7, 2017 and I was told that my visa has been approved. I had previously worked in US on H1B as well. The visa officer was pretty jovial about me pursuing MBA . I waited 10 days but my passport was not returned and no update on the visa status page. I checked them again and they mentioned that “your application is refused under Section 221(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act for administrative processing. After administrative processing is complete, the application will be reconsidered”. Does this mean that the visa is refused or they are still undergoing administrative processing. My school starts in about 10 days and i am kind of freaking out here. They haven’t sent me any information request whatsoever so i am not sure what is going on here. Any insight will be greatly appreciated.

    Reply
    • “Does this mean that the visa is refused or they are still undergoing administrative processing. “:

      Yes its refused by not DENIED, you’ll learn the final decision after they conclude Admin Processing.

      This is the place to check the status: https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx?

      “My school starts in about 10 days and i am kind of freaking out here. “:

      If officer has told you its approved then probably they are just listing the documents right on their end just to make sure of no loose ends. Hence you should have it soon.

      (On an side note: dates been close to travel date has less bearing on the time take to complete the process.)

      Good Luck ?

      Reply
      • Thanks for your reply. I am sort of wondering why they didn’t inform me of the 221g at the consulate itself. And since they haven’t asked for any documents, i don’t even know what is it that they are looking for. I know that the process will take its own time and i possibly can’t do anything about it but just wondering can the school where i have been granted admission help in any way?

        Reply
          • Hi all, Yesterday my status changed to issued from administrative processing. Thanks for your encouraging words and support.

          • Does anyone know what is status changed after Administrative Processing is completed?
            Do embassy send you an email for confirmation to submit the passport.

      • Your travel dates have now passed. If you still plan to travel to the U.S. you will need to submit a new detailed travel itinerary with the purpose of your trip, and date of travel. (You do not need to purchase an airline ticket). Your travel dates need to be valid when you travel to the U.S.

        If you no longer wish to travel, please let us know.

        Plz help what i do in this.

        They already have my passport from more than a month now i want my passport to apply for schgen visa for holland can i ask them to send my passport back and tell to let me know when there process done and send it again its really a headache.

        Reply
  17. Hi Saurabh,
    Your post is very useful. I am also facing 221g.

    I dropped my documents via Dropbox @ Bangalore on 06/19. Got the passports back with a 221g blue slip asking to attend interview. I attended interview @ Chennai on 06/29/2017 and got a 221g blue slip with “Additional administrative processing required”. Passports retained, no documents asked or checked. I have “Mohammad” in my name. I got a 221g for B1/B2 visa in 2012 and got cleared in 2 months. In 2013, got my H1B stamped without any issues. Since then working for the same employer, direct employment. My employer is a top tech company with about 100k employees world wide. My petition is valid until 2019.

    My first status update was yesterday 07/12/2017, but still says admin processing. Passport status says “No status update available for this passport”.

    Any idea how long it is taking now for name checks?

    Reply
    • Hi Immu,

      Where do you check these status ? If you don’t mind sharing link ?
      From my experience I would doubt it has anything to do with ‘Mohammad’ atleast for people from Indian descendant.

      On cgifederal.secure.force.com they have a helpline number mentioned you can check there too but it generally take its time. (Sorry to say but in cases where they hasn’t asked for any documents its hard to judge when they summarise a case).

      Please share the Links.

      Good Luck ?

      Reply
  18. Hello Saurab and all..

    I was seeing here about the 221g questions.. Please help me with my Husband case…
    My Husband had an interview in Hyderabad on June 28 2017..This is his 2nd attempt for F2 visa. First time he was refused by 214(b) and now with 221g white slip and passport returned.
    Vo interview conversation…. He replied for the following questions..
    What he do..?
    He was working in Dubai till 2015 November and He had a Rejoin letter from his company..
    Why travelled to Iran..?
    For his visa status change.
    (and showed the supported documents for his travel and he stayed only 4 days as he need to exit and enter UAE)…
    Are they considering this…?
    How this cases go..? Will that reject after submitting the documents or approved.?
    If rejected can he apply for H4 visa in future…
    Please help me with the info you guys have….

    Thanks in advance…

    Reply
    • Hello Swathi,

      Calm down, its USA he would have proceeded with such calculated assumptions in his mind.

      However on White Slip VO would have marked the reason for Admin Processing ?

      “Will that reject after submitting the documents or approved.?”
      Will be most probably Approved if provided the legitimate documents which satisfies the VO.
      The Sad part is that you don’t know how long it’ll take before you hear the verdict, there are people in the forum who are waiting on White Slip since Oct. 2016 & for some fortunate ones things just moved with in weeks.

      “If rejected can he apply for H4 visa in future”.
      Any type of visa could be applied after rejection of any type However try to understand its not the Visa its a person profile which is been accessed.

      Hence if provided all documents proving a clean record, Hopefully all should go smooth.

      Good Luck

      Reply
      • Hi i apply for non immigrant visa on 10 may 2017 they gave me 221g slip and get reply from embassy on 16 june to submit my passport and travel plan my plan to travel is 9 june 2017 so its already pass so i only send them the passport its almost 13 working days but no reply from them n last update shows on there application check list website ia 20 june did i need to send them travel plan ? Old one or make a new one plz help me as they say when u submit passport it takes 7 to 10 working days.

        Reply
        • Hassim,

          You can call on toll free number provided to check the status on your passport, If they want you to submit any documents they would ask before asking for passport submission, if now also they want to then they’ll update the status accordingly.

          Which boxes were checked when you first got 221G ? And where did you appeared ?

          Good Luck.

          Reply
          • I apply in london n they ask for my cv n submited on 11 may 2017 i receive mail to submit passport n travel plan on 16 june 2017 i submitted my passport only at there approved courier centre but still not receive passport

  19. Great Post Saurabh.

    As per my understanding most of the cases this year (specially the ones with a small rather unknown Petitioners).

    One point: The color of 221G for doesn’t really matter besides the consulate that it has been issued from.

    Processing Time: is horrible this year for my company we have few cases pending since Oct. 2016.

    Question: Provided the 221g was issued to me from Chennai can I appear in another consulate later when things indicate approved on dashboard ?

    GoodLuck everyone.

    Reply
    • Your travel dates have now passed. If you still plan to travel to the U.S. you will need to submit a new detailed travel itinerary with the purpose of your trip, and date of travel. (You do not need to purchase an airline ticket). Your travel dates need to be valid when you travel to the U.S.

      If you no longer wish to travel, please let us know.

      Plz help what i do in this.

      Reply
  20. Hi my name is mohammed junaid i gave my interview on aug 19 2016..all went right at the end of the interview,consulate officer gave me white color slip 221g ,and he dint requested for any documents..almost 10 months has been completed,till now status is showing ADMINISTRATIVE PROCESSING.my question is should i email them,so that they look my case more quikr.i dont know what they are checking for these many months ..please suggest me what should i do?

    Reply
    • Well, it is quite late I would say. You should have reached out to consulate earlier. Anyways, you can try reaching out to them and seek response.

      Reply
    • Hello, Don’t know why you havn’t reached out to them yet but start following up on pro active and hyper basis from now, every time you made an inquiry system has been updated about it & someone gets notified if your case if stuck in small glitches and left unattended.

      Good Luck.

      Reply
    • Hi,
      May i know whom to contact ??? Even i have been waiting for past 10 months..
      I contacted support@ustraveldocs.com, but getting the same reply always.

      Dear Applicant:

      Consular records show that your application has been denied under Section 221(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act for mandatory administrative processing. Unfortunately, we cannot expedite or give an estimated timeframe. U.S. immigration law requires that additional steps be completed in some cases before a file can be advanced for adjudicative review. Please continue to look at https://ceac.state.gov/ceac/ for the most up to date information regarding your case.

      Help me if we need to contact them by any other way…

      thanks,
      Balaji G

      Reply
      • Hi Balaji,

        Sry to hear that. We are usually get the updates from support-india@ustraveldocs.com. But i guess both of the email id is to provide same reply only. Can i have your email id or write to me at rajimatics@gmail.com.

        All the best.

        Thanks,
        Rajesh.

        Reply
  21. Hello
    I went for an F-1 visa interview which went well and was congratulated and told my visa will be ready in 2-3 business days, only for me to receive a mail from the consular the next day asking me to reschedule another interview to see an interviewing officer at no extra cost with a yellow 221g form indicating that. I was not asked to submit any document. I tried to reschedule the visit online which keeps saying i need to pay again, so i called the customer care line, sent them the 221g form via mail and i am yet to get a response from them.
    Kindly help to explain possible reason for the 221g because i am yet to understand why and how i can reschedule .
    Thanks

    Reply
    • Hey, I believe Visa Officer would have missed asking you for some important document which they keep with themsleves for future reference, I don’t think there is anything to be scared, move ahead & get the stamped passport back, the sooner your proceed the better it is.

      Good Luck.

      Reply
  22. I attended visa interview on Dec 21 2015 and given blue slip in chennai,India and asked me to wait until admin processing is completed. Still there is no response from embassy? do you know any cases like this? is any chance to get visa?

    Reply
  23. I appeared for H1b renewal stamping this year in jan 2017 . Previously I had entered On B1visa COS to H1b , This year change of employer and renewal was done without a current I 94. I was put on admin processing at hyd consulate since Jan 2017, Multiple emails via support VFS email resulting in generic copy-paste replies. Also my attorney stating just to be patient. It has already been more than 100 days waiting. This is curb morale and career growth . That seems to be the motive in the first place in handing out 221g’s indiscriminately for no reason whatsoever.

    Reply
    • hi Chamunda,

      Do you any update on your case. Am also in the same boat. Its been a 100 more days but no response yet. Please update here your status/suggestion if possible.

      Thanks,
      Raji

      Reply
  24. Hi,

    I had gone for interview on 28th October 2016, the interviewer told me it was approved, however when i went to collect the passport, it had visa stamped over it and a rubber stamp put over it saying cancelled without prejudice with a white 221 g form attached to it requesting for additional client related documents.
    My company had filed for an internal project and hence replied the same.
    Its more than 7 months now and no response.

    Does this late happens when it is getting rejected
    What should i do?
    Please help?

    Regards
    VG

    Reply
  25. Hi shaurab

    I got 221g from Chennai consulate and the required documents has been submitted on march 18. Now it’s almost 2months gone and I couldn’t get any updates from the consulate. Meanwhile my employer asked me to sign G28 form to proceed via their attorney.

    Is there any hope to get positive reply from consulate in this case any time soon.

    Reply
  26. I had submitted my documents for J-1 Visa at the Frankfurt consulate on 8th May. The interview went well, and the consular officer told me he could issue a visa. But then felt like the CO has some trouble with the system. After a few minutes of goofing around the desktop, CO mentioned i have to email the CV and the kind of position i have needs verification of my scientific publication (221g). The process would approximately take 3 weeks or more.

    Reply
  27. Hi Saurabh,
    I got 221(g) white slip issued in March. I have submitted all required documents in March .Later on I got mail from US consulate to submit client letter and few other documents . My original petitioner was not able to arrange client letter. Now I moved to different employer and they are ready to transfer H1 petition but recently I got reminder mail from US consulate to submit documents. Now I have below query

    1. Do we need to withdraw application from US consulate ?

    2.If yes, then how it will impact on my H1 transfer application which my new employer going to file this month .

    3. what i should reply to US consulate now.

    Please provide your inputs

    Reply
  28. Hi Saurabh,

    I went for my interview for the L1 A visa based on approved petition and at the time of interview the VO mentioned your visa is approved and you will receive your passport in 3 – 5 working days. A day later i received my passport by mail along with the 221g slip stating it will undergo administrative processing (but they did not return the petition copy ) and there was no additional documents required or the reason for it.

    Is it normal that i was told it is approved then receive the 221g slip the next morning? and should i assume this is mainly due to a background check and/or PIMS? and would the process for those still take up to 60 days?

    Thanks a mill!

    Reply
  29. Hi
    I had been issued section 221 g white paper with passport returned back at time of interview . Documents requested by consular has been submitted at interview time itself on May 17th, 2017. I will have to travel on June 16th, 2017 . Are there any positive signs that I can receive my visa by this date. I’m a scientist , Indian citizen working tier 2 visa from UK. Applied at London US embassy.

    Reply
    • My visa type was B1/B2. The consular said they need 4 to 6 weeks for administrative processing at the time of interview.
      If they say 4 to 6 weeks, is there any possibility to complete it by 1 or 2 week.
      How to track my status?

      Reply
      • hi ajay i have same situation i apply on 10 may n i m travelling on 9 june still waiting let see before my travel date got the visa they ask for cv.

        Reply
        • Hi Hasim,

          Did you submitted CV at the time of interview itself or the next day. And did you got any mail.
          Did you apply from UK.

          Reply
          • Hi Ajay I apply from London only n yeah I submitted my cv next day to the email address they give starts from @petition n I get the reply from the same day that they receive my cv but still it’s says visa in admistrative processing n last updated 10 may.

          • Hi I got my visa today itself. They asked for my passport on 22/06/2017 , when I sent my passport, within 5 days they finished visa processing and I got 6 years visa.

          • Nice… Congratulations…
            How long it had taken to clear everything… and after the interview when we expect a email from them about submitting additional documents.

          • May 17 consular interview, requested for resume submitted at the interview itself a hard copy, handed me a section 221g slip. Waited for response, June 22, they requested to deliver it us embassy in London. On the same day I sent my passport and travel plan itinerary through Royal Mail special delivery, the same day it was handed to London us embassy. I got my visa on 27/06/2016. I guess if no documents are pending and if we are acting swiftly in sending documents as and when requested it would take 40 days, this too for the first time travellers.

          • Hi ajay ur travel plan is already pass on 16 june you got mail on 22 june asking to submit passport still you send them old travel plan or the new one.

      • Hi I had a interview on JANUARY 2015 with me and my family at the time of interview they gave me a form of five question related to my profile for example – siblings name,last 15 years travel history,How long u run business like that. i fill the answers and submitted and they gave 221(g) white paper and said take your passports or submit the passports now. I submitted the passports and ask about the process time .They said that it take 2 or 3 days or a week etc i agree. After 45 days i didn’t got any answer still in process. I didn’t know that it takes above time for process i mail him know about my case. They revert me that your case in still administrative process wait for 60 days. Then waited for 10 more days after that i mail him then again they revert me that with another name person to me then i send mail to him same day that i am not the person which u mail me with another name describe in a mail and tell about my case. After two days i got another mail that u received your passports from passport collection office. Then i went their and collect passports without visa with form apply next time. After two months i re-apply again but they didn’t gave me visa again. Again i re-apply with my family but they they didn’t gave me the visa.Now i want to now that i get a visa for US in future or shall i leave. I am from NEW DELHI

        Reply
          • I submit my passport but no reply yet almost 15 working days as per there website they say when u submit passport it takes 7 to 10 working days really never go to US visa process is really a headache .

          • There is no SLA for this. You can check 221g Tracker ( link listed on the above page) to get an idea of the current processing times of others.

  30. Hey Sourabh,

    I attended the visa interview on 11th may at new delhi consulate.
    It went well.
    Below were the questions.
    Reason for trip?
    Employer?
    Employer business detail?
    Salary?
    How big is your employer?
    I answered small company.
    Where you will work at client location or employer?

    And then he asked about rights phemplet ,

    He issued me white slip221g with ITRs of the employer and client letter or internal project detail (whatever project is but he selected both check box?
    And said I’m not approving ur visa or rejecting please send these additional docs on the given email id (anyone can send either you or employer)
    I’m returing your pasport you can submit this to any local VAC whatevr near to you don’t need to come for an interview again as it has been done.

    Now I’ve one question as I’ve gone through the experiences shared by all in this forum that we can only submit passport once requested by consulate.

    But I dont understand Can I submit it with the docs or I shuld wait e-mail?

    Reply
    • Riya,

      The officer asked electronic submission of documents. So passport cannot be submitted yet. Usually the officer specifically asks for the passport or mentions it in 221g form when requesting for submission.

      The email can be sent either by you or employer, doesn’t matter.

      Reply
      • That’s rite sourabh

        But he asked me to submit the passport along with white slip once I’ll email the docs .

        So my question is if I’m sending the docs today can I submit my passport next day or shuld I wait for their e-mail respons.

        My employer had already submitted ITRs at initial stage. Dont know why they asked again.

        Reply
        • Hey Sourabh,

          When I’m checking my passport status online it shows your passport is still with US consulate.

          What does it mean?

          Reply
        • Riya,
          Don’t submit the Passport now. After the clearance they will send you mail to submit the Passport and 221g form till then you will have to wait just regularly check the mail. I just came across the procedure a week back.

          Reply
        • Riya,

          If the officer asked you to submit the passport after emailing the docs, then you can submit it. You may also want to call them and clarify.

          Reply
  31. Hi Team,
    March 15th i had a H1b visa interview and they issued 221g and asked additional documents required .
    on May 3rd i got a mail to submit the passport .
    I attended the interview in chennai and now on project i am in dubai.
    can I submit the passport in dubai.
    On or before when can I submit .

    Reply
    • sowmya,

      I think not as Chennai office handled the initial process. Contact both Chennai and Dubai offices and confirm with them.

      Reply
        • Riya,

          Yes they handed me over 221g at the time of interview, with a request to send the queries by mail. After about 7 weeks I have received mail from them to submit the Passport along with 221g at VAC.

          Reply
  32. Valuable post , I Appreciate the info – Does anyone know where my business might be able to find a blank NY DTF RP-425 version to work with ?

    Reply
  33. I was handed 221g during interview on 11th April. In lieu of additional documents required. I submitted those the next day. Within a week got another 221g form asking for detailed documents. Submitted those too. Until 25th April case update said admin processing. But today (26th) it says refused. I don’t understand what’s happening. Is this update like a final one? Or the update refers to the 221g refusal which was done on the day of interview. I’m confused because once they completely refuse they send back your documents which they haven’t done yet. Which leads me to believe (as I want to) that it’s an old update and the process is still going on as there have been many instances of status Changing from AP to refused to issued. Please help

    Reply
    • shrikanth,

      You can wait for 1-2 weeks to see if the documents are returned. The other thing you can do is contact their support center and ask for an update.

      Reply
      • Hi saurabh. Thanks for the reply. Actually my flight is on Tuesday. I was hoping I could do something by then or at least within next week. But anyway, as it seems, I can’t do much here. Hoping for the best.

        Reply
  34. Hi All,

    Did any one 22G got cleared for 2017. How much does it takes for clearance? I am eager to know about average time period for clearance for “administratative process” after documents submissions? Please help

    Reply
    • Hi,
      Sharing my experience regarding Appointment, Interview, and collection of documents.
      My Visa Interview was at Mumbai in December last year. I went to Mumbai without Bio metrics as I was not aware of that. Later, the officer at the Interview handed me the letter stating I have to schedule a Bio metrics appointment before I can take an Interview. I went back to Hyderabad and then Scheduled my Bio metrics Appointment the very next day at the Hyderabad VAC.

      You can schedule a Bio metrics Interview at www.ustraveldocs.com/in.
      After Bio metrics Interview was scheduled, on the day of the appointment the officer at the VAC collected my Bio metrics an a digital photograph.
      Please make sure you read the security requirements to enter the VAC on the ustraveldocs website. Electronics are not allowed inside and it was a problem for me to arrange a locker for my cell phone outside the VAC. VAC do not provide any locker facility.

      After successfully Submitting my Bio metrics, I was able to schedule my consular Interview for February 2nd. Make sure you be there at the consulate at least 30 mins before the consular Interview. ( There might be a huge line)
      I saw that there are two separate lines, one for Immigrants and one for non Immigrants.
      I went in to the consulate after the security check, and later I was given a token for my Interview.
      The officer called me for the Interview and I was Interviewed for about 15-20 mins. Make sure you answer only what officer ask you. Your answer should not be lengthy and irrelevant. Make your answers short and Simple. Be clear for what you are saying, such a way that officer gets it properly. Mine was Immigrant Visa Interview. After 15-20 mins the officer issued me a 221G letter asking additional evidences. This is mainly to avoid any fraud.
      It took me nearly 2 months to gather those evidence. Make sure you are submitting only what officer asked. I highlighted very important information which I wanted the officer to see. Be clear what you are submitting, Only submit relevant Information. I submitted my documents at the Dropbox location at Hyderabad.
      You can get details of the dropbox locations on ustraveldocs website.

      Meanwhile, documents are with the consulate, you can track your passport on the ustraveldocs website. you can also check the status of your case at ceac.state.gov. Enter your case number and track your case status.

      After 15 days of submitting documents (the case status was as Administrative processing),
      on 12th April the ” Case last updated” date changed.
      on 13th April the Status was changed to “Issued”

      I got my passport with my Immigrant visa and Packet in the next 2-3 days.

      Reply
    • Im equally in the same shit I apply for f1 visa since 10th April 2017,now a month has complete I didn’t hear from them.I’m stuck without knowing the reason.why 221g.I don’t no what to do.

      Reply
  35. Hi,
    I was working in US on H1 and traveled to attend a marriage. I went for interview and was given a 221g administrative processing in Dec 2016.
    Its 4 months, and when I called NVC, they said my file is still with the consulate. and status at CEAC says update – 14 dec 2016.
    I am unable to understand, can they keep my file and do nothing for 4 months?
    When you say – Email consulate, how to do that since VFS doesn’t seem to be giving any proper status. My husband is in US, with a fractured leg, my daughter school has dropped her and my client is no longer to wait now.
    How can I get my passport back, because the employer is in a mood to revoke my H1 and I would like to apply for a H4.

    Reply
    • Hi Nalini,
      My case is same as yours.
      I interviewed with Delhi Embassy on 24th Jan’17 and yellow slip was issued to me.
      No docs have been requested till date and Embassy is giving no status updates.

      I don’t know what’s going on with my application.

      Please keep posted your status if you hear anything from consulate.

      Reply
      • Nalini and Kartikka,
        I traveled from US to India for my cousins wedding on October 2016 and when I went for stamping got 221g , I didn’t get any update in my case till date, no update neither they asked for any documents. Dont know when I will be getting an update in my case 🙁

        Reply
  36. Hi All,

    I interviewed wit the US consulate in New Delhi on April 3rd . They kept my passport, returned my I-797, and gave me a 221g stating “Sevis Hit Removal”

    Anyone has any idea about Sevis Hit removal?

    Thanks!

    Reply
        • Congratulations Manas! Could you tell me overall how many days it took you to get your H1 approval? Also, did you submit any documents to the embassy / VFS? I submitted the old Sevis fee receipt. Appreciate any response.

          Reply
          • Hello Taruna,
            Did you get any response? Please lmk. I am in the same place as you but I am stuck in a different country.

        • Hello Manas same question again I am in the same place like you were can you please let us know how long it took for the administrative processing?

          Reply
  37. Good morning sir,

    I went for my follow up interview at the Lagos consular in Nigeria on the 10th of March 2017, after all the follow-up interview went well, the consular asked several questions regarding my job non destructive testing that uses iridium-192.

    Thereafter my wife was equally interviewed separately and our passports was retained by the consular.

    On the 23rd of March, I received a message that the passports were ready for collection. I did picked up the passports without the visa, I saw same 221g paper that we are still on administrative processing.

    Note: I applied for b1/b2 visa

    Pls, What should I do at this point

    Regards

    Terry

    Reply
    • Terry,

      Looks like your job has triggered this administrative processing. They may conduct background check before issuing the visa to you. Nothing you can do at this point except to wait patiently.

      Reply
  38. My fiance is a USA citizen, he applied for a K1 visa. I am from India. When I went to the Delhi Consulate for the interview , after some questions the officer gave me a white slip which said your case has been refused under section 221g, please bear with us while your case undergoes administrative processing. She also returned my Passport.

    When I track the case number it shows returned to NVC.
    Is it a Denial?
    What steps can I take?

    Also Will this impact further if my fiance applies for a CR1 (Spouse Visa) ?

    Reply
    • Riz,

      From the name I assume you have a common Muslim name. They may be doing background check. It is not a denial but a delay. Nothing you can do except to wait patiently.

      Reply
  39. I attended interview today at Hyderabad Consulate and they gave me 221(G). and mostly my case is of
    Employment check.

    How much time do you think this will take?

    Reply
  40. Please clarify me on the below one.
    I had attended US consulate at Hyderabad for H1B stamping on 13th Feb 2017 and was issued 221(g) white slip for administrative processing with case number, by holding the passport .
    How any days actually US consulate holds passport?
    Are there any chances to release the passport and continue with their administrative processing?
    Because i need to travel to other country where i am currently working, if US consulate holds my passport for too long then I will loose the current job and visa
    Did you ever heard of this cases in past?
    Please advise…

    Reply
  41. Hi

    My wife went for the H4 interview on December 7th 2017 at Hyderabad. The interview was straight forward

    CO: Where does your Husband Work
    Her : XYZ Company

    CO: where do u live
    Her : Virginia and the address

    CO: how long you are in USA
    Her: 3 years

    and then She said congratulations your Visa is approved and handed over a booklet (Rights in USA) and then said she will receive the passport in 2 days.The passport si still with them. But since then her Visa is in admin processing. It been more than 55 days now.

    This has happened to her the first time as well , she was approved after 3 months. Not sure why they are making her go through the same again

    has anyone gone through this ????

    I am worried how long its gonna take for them to approve again.

    Reply
  42. Hi Saurabh & Team,
    Please clarify me on the below one.
    I had attended US consulate for H1B stamping on 28th Dec and was issued 221(g) white slip by holding the passport. Its been almost 4 weeks and I am yet to hear any response.
    How any days actually US consulate holds passport?
    Are there any chances to release the passport and continue with their administrative processing?
    Did you ever heard of this cases in past?
    Please advise…

    Reply
  43. Hi Saurabh/ Kumar,

    My petition had an rfe but was approved when I converted to premium.

    I did appear for the consulate interview and was issued 221g in Nov. My employer submitted docs in dec. Consulate then has sent back my case to USCIS in Jan. It is under review by USCIS and would probably be revoked.

    Will any other company be able to file a cap expemt h1b on my i797 in such a case.

    Reply
  44. I attended my visa interview on 19th January and was issued a yellow slip saying ADMINISTRATIVE PROCESSING. My company went into a merger with another company and its name/identity was changed. VO collected my Passport and original I797 petition. Also the VO said “Unfortunately I can not assign you a visa right away but we will try to approve your case by the end of the day today”.

    After reading online and contacting the VAC looks like I am in a bad spot since the process is not transparent and can take forever to qualify.

    1. Any suggestions regarding steps to take to get out of this mess?
    2. I understand the website says 60 days, so should I expect it in 60 days or is there a possibility that it can actually happen in a week or so?
    3. Is it helpful contcting the US embassy at New Delhi?

    Reply
  45. I had my L1B visa interview today in the Dubai US consulate office. Visa officer wrote approved in the I129S action block but handed over the yellow slip for administrative processing with case number. Does this mean that my visa is approved and that it just needs some processing for clearance? How long does it take for this admin processing to complete in my case?

    Reply
  46. Hi,

    Today i.e. 10 Jan 2017 I went for H1B interview at Delhi and lady taking my interview gave me the yellow slip after few questions. She took my passport and also asked for all the documents and said it is under Administrative Processing now. Did not ask for any more documents as of now and also did not write anything on the yellow slip.

    Jay

    Reply
  47. Dear Saurabh / Team,
    I went for consular interview yesterday for H1B and was issued 221(g) white slip requesting for the below details. However they kept the passport with themselves and asked me to email the below informations.
    Invite Letter – I already have this letter.
    Research
    Funding
    Itinerary

    I had completed M.Tech Biotech back in 2009 and joined one of the top Indian MNC in Information Technology and has been working since.
    My Queries are:

    Research – I am not involved much in research in my current job in IT company.. do i mention Not applicable or do i mention few of my projects on Biotech back in 2007 and 2009?

    Funding – I am on my Company’s Payroll and will be paid as per my certified LCA.. do i attach the LCA and say my trip will be funded by my company and will be paid as per LCA or should I show my bank balance statements here in India too?

    Itinerary – my company has provided itinerary of services which clearly mentions my company’s address in US and the client address and the work duration.. do I also need to have a confirmed flight tickets and hotel accommodation and send it across as my reply to consulate

    If any one else had this kind of queries replied to consulate, please leave your contact details on gurgaontechie9@gmail.com , It will be of immense help. Also please advise me on the processing timelines as I was supposed to join my client in US by mid of Jan ’17, thanks

    Reply

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