Not everyone are lucky to get H1B visa stamping at first attempt…Some of you might have got 221(g) query from the Visa Consular officer ( blue, white, yellow) asking to submit documents.
The most frustrating thing about 221(g) blue form is that there is no way to track your application…You just have to wait….it can be frustrating to wait…This page is meant to help others get an idea about processing times and how long does it take to process a 221(g) issued H1B case…If you were ever given 221(g), please share your details to help others get an idea. You may check out below articles as well.
- 6 tips from H1B stamping – 221(g) experience
- Drop Box submission process – 221(g) – No Box
- Chennai H1B visa – 221(g) stamping experience
You can check out our 221(g) tracker that has anonymous data with users like you, who added the details for community benefit.
[prompt type=”left” title=”Check out 221(g) Case Tracker ” message=”Check out our 221(g) Tracker with anonymous data from everyone.” button_text=”View your 221(g) Tracker !” href=”https://redbus2us.com/trackers/221g-tracker/”]
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.
[prompt type=”left” title=”Add your 221(g) Case ” message=”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=”Add your 221(g)Case!” href=”https://redbus2us.com/trackers/221g-tracker/”]
Hi Saurabh,
I got 221g blue slip on 7th Feb 2013 in mumbai consulate. They are asking for below documents to be dropped off at dropbox location.
* set of document submitted to USCIS ( used for h1b petition )
* oraganization chart
* list of employee with all the details (client location ,status, wages etc )
* client letter and contract documents
I have submitted these documents on 15th Feb and got confirmation from support center that document had been received by consulate on 19th Feb. When I submitted the documents at dropbox in mumbai, the person who was receiving the documents told me that it will take atleast 5 – 7 days to process the documents. Now as the dropbox process is improved a bit with (IWP), can we expect improvement in processing time? I know that it’s not definite but still want to know if some one recently got 221g and got clearance.
Please give your thoughts on this.
Thanks,
Tushar
Tushar,
I don’t think they have significantly reduced 221g processing time. They might have improved the submission process, but we don’t know whether the review process has been improved or not. Still people wait for weeks to get any meaningful update from the consulate. Just my 2 cents.
Thanks for reply Suarabh..Its just 2 weeks since my documents has been received by consulate. should I start preparing for back up plan ( h1 transfer)? My employer filed my labor 3 days back ( they knew that I got 221g). Not sure what was the intention behind that. what are my options as of now. I am in EVC model and I have given all the documents which are good enough as per my knowledge. My petition was also approved with the same client letter. Just wanted to know your view on option of h1 transfer.is h1 transfer ( cap-exempt) and fresh h1 different, considering I am still working from India..
Tushar,
Finding a new employer also takes time and 221g at times can be a bottomless pit. So it’s better to start researching on alternate employments. If the visa gets approved then you can go w/ current employer; else you have an alternative to fall back on.
Hi
I’ve attended the H1B interview at Hyderabad on Feb 4, 2013 and the visa officer told me that my visa is approved and will get it in 3-5 business days. It’s been 3 weeks today and status online still says Administrative processing. I wasn’t given any 221G slip so I’m kind of confused at what is going on with my application. Anyone in the same situation?
I’m a FTE at a big company and shouldn’t have been a problem like E-C or E-V-C models.
Kumaramangalam,
They might be doing background checks or PIMS verification. 221g slip is not always issued, but the case can still go into administrative processing.
hi …i attended my h1b visa interview and VO issued 221g keeping my passport with him.
he asked why i attended visa interview in spite of choosing visa waiver program. after some general questions he said i`m issuing 221g the same which was issued two years back. dependant got visa .. Any suggestions ? thanks….
Sree,
If the dependent got the visa, then they should approve your visa soon. They kept the passport, which is another positive sign. Did they ask for any documents for submission?
BTW, I think he meant interview waiver program and not visa waiver program.
hi saurabh …thanks for your mail. he asked for general info in the questionnaire – personal info, petitioner name / address/ reporting boss contacts, current / future project , itinerary, previous visa, sponsor / client letters. Submitted the scanned docs on Jan 29 2013, tracking the status from CEAC website and haven`t received any update. Yes, its interview waiver program. truly appreciate your time and info shared. regards …sree
Hi Saurabh
For B1 VISA
i didnt have strong reason to tell if Visa officer ask me why cant you do the work sitting in india?(i am planning to tell i am going for gathering requirements and giving presentations)…..
please give me the srong answer as no one(even my company immigration fellows) are not giving proper answer……
Hi Saurabh
i didnt have strong reason to tell if Visa office ask me why cant you do the work sitting in india?(i am planning to tell i am going for gathering requirements and giving presentations)…..
please give me the srong answer as no one(even my company immigration fellows) are not giving proper answer……
Sorry for not typing. its for B1 visa
wantAnswer,
If you are really going for requirement gathering and to give presentations, then you should reply that. If not, then what’s the real purpose of travel? How big is your employer? Have they had B-1s filed in the past?
Yes its a MNC Company. but for a B1 visa if they tell why cant u do the same work from india? what should i reply saurabh ?
Please help me ………
WantAnswer,
If your real purpose is to gather requirements through meetings and do presentations, then that should be fine. Lot of people file B-1 for the purpose of client meetings. You may be asked about detail itinerary w/ dates and tasks. If your company has an attorney, they will be able to guide you w/ the preparation.
Thanks Saurabh for your inputs.
Consulate asked to submit the passports on 14 Feb and we did it on the same day for myself and dependents. On 19th Feb we received the stamped passports for dependents(H4 – spouse and kids) but not mine. I am still waiting for my passport.
The status on CEAC website changed to “Ready” and then back to “Administrative Processing” on 20th Feb and it still showing as “Administrative Processing”.
Have you or anybody heard/experienced this kind of situation? I would really appreciate the thoughts/inputs on this.
Thanks
DKJ,
Seems like they want to do some additional processing in your case. It may be as trivial as getting some confirmation from USCIS before issuing the visa. As they have issued dependents’ visa stamp, yours should also get issued soon.
Thanks Saurabh. I got my passport back with stamping on Feb 28th.
HI ,
I have H1-B Visa which is valid up to sep 2014 and presently I am working in USA.
Present Company “A” sponsored visa for me. Now I got new offer from company “B” in US and B is also ready to transfer my Visa.
Here my question is ,
1.Is there any problem for me?
2.Is it possible to cancel my H1-B visa by company A ?
Please give more details.
Siva,
1. You are allowed to to that
2. They can withdraw the petition once you let them know about the H-1 transfer. Still it will not stop the other employer from continuing w/ the H-1 transfer
Hi Saurabh,
One of my close friend is also facing 221g admin processing. VO handed him pink slip with passport kept by embassy. More than 60 days still no update. You said after 60 days attorney can contact DHS. Would you please let me know on which State or embassy website its mentioned that attorney can contact DHS after 60 days as his attorney says he cant do anything except wait.
Simmer.
Simmer,
It is not written anywhere but an attorney told me about it. A friend of mine had received 221g and when he approached his attorney, they said they are required to wait for 60 days before contacting DHS and that’s something set by DHS.
However, even if the attorney contacts them it will not help in speeding up the process. It just opens another route of getting updates, which most of the times are not elaborate and can be as short as what’s already available on their site. So in the end anyone who gets 221g can’t do anything but wait.
Saurabh,
do you know the contact info or email where they can be reached for this ?
Thanks,
Simmer.
Sam,
You can look it up on DHS website.
Saurabh can u please tell the correct reason(or answer) if visa interviwer ask me why you are travelling to USA for 4 weeks(B1 Visa)….. please help me
wantAnswer,
You should answer it truthfully. If you are going to attend business meetings etc, then answer that. You can also talk to your internal immigration team about the purpose of travel. Did they provide any letter addressed to consulate for your B-1?
Hi Sourabh,
I have got my H1 B extension until December 2013. I am planing to go on vacation in April. Eventually I should go for stamping in April. I would have 9 months of valid petition from that time. Would there be any issue in getting visa stamping? What is the trend to get h1b visa stamping now? I am asking all these questions because first time when I appeared for PA I was issued a 221 (G) form asking many documents like client letter, project description,contract between employer and client.contract between me and employer. and notarized the details of the employees of employer working in the location
Thanks
Prasad,
They will issue visa as per the remaining H-1 petition term. They can again ask for similar documents, but the decision will not be impacted by the fact that you have only 9 months of H-1 term left.
Hi Sourabh,
I am really thankful to you for providing help, information & suggestions, I opened many times this site to check the status of others when mine was in CapCount/Aftet filing petition/RFE for Petition/Visa Interview… so many.. I also responded to some queries with my knowledge.
FINALLY.. Yes FINALLY… Last week i landed in US (after 1.5 year of visa struggle, actually i was in US on L1B for 3 years, came back to India for applying H1B)
Thanks so much Sourabh and others who is using this site. Its really helping a lot.
IT ‘s NOT END, i am still using this site for H4 help… 🙂
Hi,
what was your case? would you please explain briefly?
sky
A2Z,
Congrats on landing here. Good luck!
Attended H1B Visa stamping interview on last week of Dec.
received 221g White Form, asking for Client details. Submitted required documents on 1st week of Jan.
Today I have received email from HYD Consulate asking me to submit Passport at VFS/OFS.
does it mean its approved?
Thanks,
Sam
Sam,
Usually they ask for passport only when they are ready to issue the visa. But like a wise man said, don’t count the chicken before they’re hatched.
Hi All,
its been over three months now, still waiting for visa. on site check its saying still under necessary admin processing, on their site its written most cases are cleared in 60-90 days, means mine case is in worst scenario ? Please suggest or any rough idea, how many more days it will take to complete frustrating admin processing ?????…
Thanks
Nirma
Nirma,
There is no set processing time for visa approval. Once 221g is issued, it can take few weeks to several months. You can follow-up on CEAC website or call them but you will not get too much information from it.
hi Saurabh, i attended interview on 06-feb-2013..bep company, only asked which client? what do they do?(financial domain), after that gave welcome kit, then 221g, counter 31, sibling details, height, countries visted. in 2011 i gt 221g and got the visa issued in 2 weeks. Today my status date in ceac website got updated to feb 14. what does this means? any clue will be helpful
h1b06feb2013,
Looks like background check to me. Typically these get resolved in 3-8 weeks but some can take longer.
today morning the status chnaged to issued
h1b06feb2013,
Congrats. I am too in the same boat, similar H1 interview gave the welcome kit and 221g white with only admistitrative processing checked, retained only the passport + DS 160 confirmation and the same set of bio details on Dec-18-2012, Kolkata. VO told me would take 2-4 weeks, Still waiting without any update. Glad that you have jumped the queue.
Thanks,
Sam
Hi Saurabh,
I appeared for H1B renewal visa interview on 7Feb13. The CEAC website showed status as “Admin processing” and last status update date was 7Feb13 until yesterday. Today the status date changed to 21Feb13 but the status still shows “Admin Processing”. Did you have a similar situation.
Expect decision in a day or two… Generally when they change these dates it means they are working on it and will update status too soon…
Hi Sd,
I am also in the same situation
Case Creation Date: 17-May-2012
Status Updated Date: 14-Feb-2013
I request Saurabh to provide his view on this situation.
Sd : Please let me know when you see any further updates and keep me posted. Thanks
Sd/JK,
Although they have started using CEAC website for process tracking, it is not as informative as USCIS petition tracking (which has its own limitations).
So it is not possible to say what LUD change implies in this case. One can be hopeful that they are making process, but it can still take undetermined amount of time.
I am also in same boat…. status got changed on 24 Feb saying decision is sent & on 28 Feb status changed to Post decision saying the case is revoke…
Visa attended date was 27 April 2012
I appeared for H1B renewal visa interview on 7Feb13. The CEAC website showed status as “Admin processing” and last status update date was 7Feb13 until yesterday. Today the status date changed to 21Feb13 but the status still shows “Admin Processing”. Did you have a similar situation.
Where did you check your status? would you please provide me the link?
https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx?eQs=WwjqOlbeRYzCYubaSQI+RA==
Here is the link to check the status:
https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx?eQs=WwjqOlbeRYzCYubaSQI+RA==
Hi Saurabh,
This is the biggest misfortune on me. I got my H1b stamped this January 2013 after getting 221(g) cleared. I am scheduled to travel on 17th Feb. I have lost my stamped passport while collecting forex in one of the busiest markets in Delhi. Can you guide me what should I do next? I have logded the FIR and have applied for a duplicate passport. But not sure what is the process of stamping? I have scanned copy of Visa. I have called the OFC call centre the guys there say I have to apply for fresh H1b.
Kindly guide me. I m really upset and depressed
Rapunzel,
See my response to your other post on this.
Hi Saurabh,
I appeared for H1B visa interview at mumbai consulate in Aug-2012 and was issued 221g green slip. VO kept the documents(I-129,797,client letter) with him during interview and returned the passport. No documents were asked to submit. CEAC status check shows case is under Administrative Processing. In last week of January-2013, I received an email from mumbai consulate asking for client letter submission which I did very next day. Now waiting for further response from consulate.
As we know that there is no defined time frame for admin processing but based on the recent movement in my case, do you think I can expect some outcome in short time?
DKJ,
Even though they were quick to ask for client letter, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they will complete the processing quickly. It can still take few weeks or several months.
Hi Saurabh i got H1 Visa for one day… if i go for H1 extension and file for the next time whether i need to go to embassy for interview or can i drop documents in the drop box???
2nd question : My company is processing B1 Visa for me…. can i go for B1 Visa stamping interview even if i have H1 B Visa(which is expired) ??????
please help us……..
WantAnswer,
You can avail dropbox facility as long as the previous visa stamp expired in last 1 year. Remember, they can still put that into 221g processing even if you use the interview waiver program.
Yes, you can go for B-1 visa stamping. You need to have valid reasons to travel on B-1 and demonstrate that you are not a potential immigrant. Having H-1 visa in the passport makes it little difficult as H-1 is a dual-intent visa (i.e. allows you to immigrate by having GC filed).
Hi,
I appeared for stamping in January 2012 and got 221g white sleep from Bombay consulate. I had submitted all require document as mentioned in that 221g form in February which received by USCIS in April but still did not get any reply from them. So what should i can do?
Visa Date: 24/01/2012
Document Submit Date: 09/02/2012
Received Latter from Bombay Consulate : 19/03/2012
USCIS received Date : 06/04/2012
Please Help me out.
Sky,
Your attorney in US can follow-up w/ DHS. Don’t be too hopeful though about the timelines. It takes it own sweet time and the process’ progress is pretty opaque.
Hi Saurabh,
My attorney in US wrote three email to them but did not get any reply. would it be great to call them and ask them about status? I am really tired waiting.
Sky,
Email is a passive method as they can chose it ignore it. However, if you can get them on phone they will at least respond to you and be more reactive. Still, don’t be too hopeful to get a timeline on this from them.
Hi Saurabh,
As you suggested, I called them and they told me they will remind the officer on my case. Moreover i got email from that officer in reply to my recent email that,
This case is currently with an adjudicator. You should receive a decision or other notice of action within the next 30 days.
So please advice me what should i do. do i have to wait or have to file new fresh H1B petition?
Thanks,
sky
Hey Sky-
Can you please let me know what number did you call them, I have been issued a white 221g on May 14, 2012 and I dont have any update till date and neither did they request for any additional documents from me. My current H1 is expiring this May 2013, so getting a lil bit tensed now.
Thanks
Vishal
Hi Vishal,
Number is : 1-800-375-5283
sky
Sky,
You can give them 30 days and then follow-up. Still, as a backup plan you can have H-1 filed again this year. Talk to your employer about it as it will involve an expense of 2-3K on behalf of the employer.
Saurabh,
My employee suggest me to revoke this petition and reapply fresh H1B application and because of that we do not need to wait till APR. we can file right away. so what you suggest on that.
sky
Sky,
Yes, you can have it filed right away based on earlier approval. But do not revoke the petition and let it continue processing as it may get reaffirmed. Why does the employer want to revoke the petition before filing the cap-exempt petition?
Hi Saurabh,
As you mentioned in last reply, I told my employer and he is going to apply for my new H1b petition parallel to my existing one. Is that ok if i will change my client in new petition? i also want to add dependent visa with this application, is that ok? Please advice me
SKY,
Yes, those changes can be made to the new petition.
Hi Saurabh,
As per your suggestion we done with all paper work and would be going to submit my new petition for H1B today. But i got update from USCIS on my old petition today as well and i stopped my employer for while for new petition.
USCIS Reply:
” On March 6, 2013, we mailed a notice to you reaffirming the approval of this case and returned the case to the Department of State for visa processing. For more information, please contact them directly.
For approved applications/petitions, post-decision activity may include USCIS sending notification of the approved application/petition to the National Visa Center or the Department of State. For denied applications/petitions, post-decision activity may include the processing of an appeal and/or motions to reopen or reconsider and revocations.”
so please advise me what should i do? do i wait or file new Petition?
Sky
Sky,
That’s good news. Your employer will receive a 797C notice for the reaffirmed petition. You can then contact the consulate and ask them for further steps. They will most likely ask you to appear for interview again (I don’t think new DS form needs to be completed or additional fees need to be paid). Carry all the documents like before including reaffirmed petition and a more recent letter from employer stating that employment is still valid.
There is no point of filing the new petition now, as it will cost money. Discuss w/ your employer as well.
Hi Saurabh,
My Employer has got I-797 c form as you said. would you please let me know the next process after that? what i have to do? do i have to contact my local VFS center? Please advise ASAP….
Thanks for all you help which you have been doing in my 221g journey.
Sky
Sky,
You should get that 797C and then contact the US consulate about the next steps. Each consulate has different process from here on. In general, they will ask you to appear for another interview with all the documents including the 797C and will then again review your stamping request. You don’t need to pay for fees again though.
Hi Sky
Can you please tell me which phone number you called to enquire about the status. please let me know since i am also waiting for long time…
Thanks
an2013
Hi Sky,
whats the email address of DHS where u contacted them.
Thanks.
CSC-Premium.Processing@uscis.dhs.gov
Hi,
On my Status its saying “ISSUED “.
Your visa is in final processing. If you have not received it in more than 10 working days, please see the webpage for contact information of the embassy or consulate where you submitted your application.
What does it mean ? Is it I got visa ?
Thanks.
Same for me also.
Visa interview date: 29th Jan’13
Case Creation Date: 25-Jan-2013
Status Updated Date: 29-Jan-2013
I am still waiting for mail from VFS for collecting passport from them. At the time interview i was not asked for any documents OR no slips given to me. And VO kept my passport with him.
I am daily checking the status on VFS and CEAC site.
On VFS Site –> No records found, please check the passport number
On CEAC Site –> Issued, Your visa is in final processing…..
Hope GOD helps on this.
Hi,
Where we can check on VFS ? My case is updated today with this status. I was interviewed in late december.
Simmer.
This is to check the passport status:
https://www.vfs-usa.co.in/applnforms/trackyourpassport.aspx
You are saying that your interview was done in Dec, that means did they given any slips to you OR 221g, please let me know your experience….
Hi,
Yea my interview was on 27th dec and they issued a white slip and asked to submit documents which I did on 3rd Jan and after that today they changed status to “Issued”. So waiting for their next step now. I am not sure whether they gonna send it or will ask to pick passport from VFS if this status means Visa is granted.
Simmer.
I just received my passport…
Hi,
I just got this email.
Dear ,
Your document(s) have been collected from the US Embassy/Consulate
The passport number being returned is
You have chosen to have your documents delivered to the following location:
Delhi, S – 1 American Plaza, NewDelhi, 110019
If you have any issues or concerns, please contact us at www.ustraveldocs.com/in.
Hi A2Z, did they issue you visa or just passport?
Anyone with 221g tracking number sequence 2012340… ?
Hi ,
My 221g tracking number sequence is 2012347…
please suggest
@AQRM –> They issued visa with ~3 years validity…
Simmer,
Did you collect your passport back? Did they return all the documents that you submitted or they just provided your passport? Please advice…Thanks
I collected my passport with visa stamp on it. They however didnt returned any documents(photocopies) which I submitted.
Hi sir,
i attended H1B in march 2012 and issued 221(g) white slip and given back my passport. after two months they asked for some documents which i submitted.
now in january 2013 they told me to submit a passport. after submission of my passport when i check the status in CEAC it shows ISSUED (and my case is in final processing)……how many days it will take to get my passport???? and my H1B petition expired in feb 2013…i wonder whether he will give me VISA even my petition expired….. as status shows ISSUED i am hoping i got VISA….. please help me……
Very interesting so Saurabh any insights , what happens after petition expires . I mite fall in this category ” Visa approved after petition expires” Obama is right US immigration in bad state.
ravi did u get VISA after your petition got expired???
Saurabh please help us……..
No it is not issued yet. U r better then me .
ravi did u submit your passport???
WantAnswer,
If it says issued, then it means it has been approved. The passport should arrive within a week.
They will issue a visa stamp valid until petition expiration date. They approved the visa before the petition expired, but approved it for a very short term which is of no practical use. Now, your employer has to file a cap-exempt petition and you will have to re-appear for visa stamping using that approved petition. Another cycle of waiting and anxiety.
Your new visa stamping may qualify for H-1 waiver and so you may not have to appear personally in the consulate. Still that doesn’t mean automatic approval and they can still issue against the new visa stamping.
My Visa (as per online status) was issued exactly on the day of H1B petition expiration. So is it still possible that US Consulate issuing the Visa stamp for just 1 day? Please let me know your thoughts.
saurbh please help us………
No they have not taken my passport. But they will take their sweet time like in ur case of 9 months by then my petition will expire.If they extend your petition u r lucky.
WantAnswer,
I would suggest to wait for the passport to arrive.
Another possibility is that they will send the passport w/ a letter asking for petition extension so that they can issue the visa stamp. Don’t know if this is the case or if they issued visa for a ridiculous short duration.
Thank you Saurabh for your information. i will update once i get my passport.
Its a great website helping people with the useful information. Please continue doing this… Saurabh, you are the Man.
Saurabh my passport status is showing as origination scan . what does it mean???
8th wonder. i got VISA for one day.
Hi Saurabh,
My current Indian company is ready to process my B1. So which one I have to opt for between the H1B extension and the B1 processing? Do you think H1B extension and stamping will be easy as I got stamping in my passport already?
Do u see any issues If I go for B1 stamping in March 2013? If B1 approved, can i apply for H1 extension after I land in US?
Any help is highly appreciated.
Thanks.
WantAnswer,
If you have valid reasons to travel on B-1 then go for B-1 visa. Filing H-1 extension and then getting H-1 visa stamped may take time. So if you have need to travel in the mean time then go for B-1 visa. Obviously you need to have valid reasons to travel on B-1.
Hi Saurabh
Thanks for all your help.
Today I got an email from USCIS stating they have reaffirmed/approved my petition. In the USCIS it is stating “Post Decision activity”
The think that I am surprized about is Can USCIS reaffairm the case the same day when they recieve it. I got two email one saying recieved another aproved and sent back to State.
Any idea about the process after reaffirmation. Thanks
Ravi
Ravi,
Maybe they received it earlier and updated it today. Your attorney should receive the reaffirmed petition within 30 days. If they don’t, then they should follow-up w/ USCIS.
Hi,
My “Status Updated Date” before was showing 27th dec my interview date but now its showing today’s date but the status is still “Admin Processing” so it means they picked my application now for processing ?
Simmer.
Simmer,
As they don’t provide additional details, one cannot deduce conclusively if they have picked up the visa for processing or was the file just touched to update the last updated date. Wait for few more days to see if there is any further status update.
Hi,
I appeared for my H1 stamping on 24 th January. The VO said your visa is approved, handed me the green slip and kept my passport.
Today my status shows as Administrative Processing.
What are my options other than to just wait.
Which Consulate?
New Delhi. Does that make any difference?
Ankur,
What’s the status shown on the ceac tracking website? You can follow-up w/ consulate but they will not provide any other information than what’s there on ceac website. There is no other way to expedite the process, and there is no set processing time.
Hi Sourabh,
I got interviewed on 29th Jan13 and my interview went fine, he clearly said that my visa was approved and he kept my passport with him only.
But i haven’t received my passport yet, still waiting for mail from VFS for collecting my passport. Today is the 3rd day excluding interview day. Please let me know if this is expected.
Thanks in advance.
A2Z,
At times even though they say visa has been approved, it gets delayed b/c of administrative processing. What does it show on ceac website when you track it using your passport number?
I am seeing following message “No records found, please check your passport number” on VFS site.
Also, i am using below site for passport tracker, hope this is the correct one,
https://www.vfs-usa.co.in/applnforms/trackyourpassport.aspx
A2Z,
Try tracking it here. You can also call the consulate and ask them about the status.
I just checked the status on given link, its showing as “ISSUED”, and message is “Your visa is in final processing. If you have not received it in more than 10 working days, please see the webpage for contact information of the embassy or consulate where you submitted your application.”
A2Z,
So you can contact them if not received even after 10 days.
Good luck!
HI aaz .. did u get passport(visa)???
Nope WantAnswer, still waiting for passport…
Hi All,
I want to share my experiance. I applied for H1b visa. Got interviewed on 6th November 2012
Issued a 221(g) white form along with demand of few documents such as client letter,tax docs etc.My passport was kept by consulate after the interview.
Submitted the documents in Jan 4th 2013.
Got my stamped passport on 16th Jan 2013.
I want to thank Saurabh and everyone out here who helped me pull this. This forum is very helpful. I wish everyone all the best for visa.
Thanks
Hopeful.
Congrats Rapunzel!
Dear Sourabh,
I have been waiting for more than 2 yrs for stamping & still no update from mumbai consulate just keeping hanging, nor issuing visa nor straightly denying it no ?
I had been for 1st h1b interview in mumbai on 9th feb 2011, VO gave me yellow 221g with no documents asked.
In April 2011 my petition was send to USCIS for review & possible revocation
In April 2012 USCIS reaffirmed it after my employer produced relevant info
In Sept 2012 i had been to interview again in Mumbai consulate ,after the interview VO gave my passport back nor he asked for any documents which i carried i.e client & employer letters & nor they issued me any 221g or any other memo & Vo said consulate will contact me within 2 weeks
Now almost more than 4 mnths have passed since i had been for 2nd interview no updates from consulate.
Contacted VFS they say under review or admin process ??
I don’t understand wht is happening if they are not interested in issuing a visa then y they are not denying it ?
Waiting for ur kind feedback …
Thks
Hello Anand,
My case is exactly same. First H1b interview on 6th March 2011, given 221(g) slip and submitted required documents in April 2011 at Delhi. Cases rejected and sent for USCIS for rview.
Approval reaffirmed in April 2012, appeared 2nd H1b visa interview on 1st June 2012. Again given 221(g) slip, passport retained. Again documents needed by them submitted on 26th June 2012. Since then no information/communication, passport not yet returned. Every time when enquiring,answer is Your passport under process at US Embassy/Consulate, New Delhi,.
Just waiting.
Dear Manish,
Ask ur employer or attorney to followup with embassy in that case they may get response directly from embassy
Anand,
Unfortunately there are not many options here. You can either continue to wait, or ask your attorney to follow-up w/ DHS in US. Your employer can also try contacting local senator to see if they can follow-up w/ DHS to put an end to this 2 year ordeal.
Interview Date: 17th Dec 2012
H1b CoE Extension and H4 stamping, Kolkata
Work directly with fortune 100 firm. Had a simple interview. Was given 221(g) white form. VO told me the application is good and no further documents are required by me, checked additional administrative processing. Also told me an ETA of 4 weeks. Another gentleman, asked me personal details i.e. height, weight, father’s name, education, places of internation travel etc. 4 weeks got over still no update, any suggestions?
Sam,
Nothing you can do except to wait. Once it has been 60 days since your interview, your attorney can follow-up w/ DOS in US.
Saurabh and All,
Interview Date;17th Oct 2011
Petition sent back to USCIS: 27th April 2012
No Update after that.when i track application on https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx?eQs=WwjqOlbeRYzCYubaSQI+RA==
I Saw below msg.What does that mean?
Case Creation Date: 01-Oct-2011
If you have submitted your online nonimmigrant visa application (DS-160), it has not yet been processed into the visa system. At some locations, your application will remain in this status until you appear for an interview or until your application is ready for review. Please see the embassy or consulate’s website for information on the next steps required for visa processing.
For more information, please visit U.S. Consulate General Toronto.
Krishna,
You should contact the respective consulate and ask them if they know about it. Maybe they haven’t sent the information to be updated in CEAC system.
Saurabh,
Consulate replied me with below msg:
For further information regarding the status of your petition, you may contact the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (www.dhs.gov).
I track status on USCIS website,Its still showing old status of H1B approved.
What to do?Please advice me.I am really appreciate.
Krishna,
This is like going in circles. You can contact DHS but they may direct you back to the consulate. Ask your employer to follow-up w/ USCIS on this.
The other option is to have another cap-exempt petition filed. This has been pending for around 2 years now, and it may be faster to get another petition filed than to wait for this one to be completed.
Hi,
I got my H1 B petition approval in 2012 via consultant but coz USPS didn’t got address they returned it twice.In the meantime i visited my country and i returned back to US in December 2012. Now when i am calling my consultant he is saying nothing is possible because my I-94 got changed. And when i asked you didnt responded to my calls and mails which i did before visiting my home country then he is blaming me. He told you should have went for stamping in your home country.
Now can anything happen? Is there any possibility to be in a job in US? Or to get renewal once again on my approved pettition with in two three months. I dont want to undergo the same filing procedure again. Please help me if anyone knows what can be done. Help me.
I guess for the prime applicant, they send the documents directly to the employer and then employer send them to you. Not sure what actually happened.
Hi Deepak,
Yes, you are right. However my question is that :
Is my petition still valid because my I-94 got changed after reentering US?
If not, then is there any procedure to renew it back with in a short period of time?
Shriya,
See my response to your other post on this.
Saurabh/All.
The new transparent process initiative from consulate
https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx?eQs=o/iS8zDpeAKjMWCuebHqOw==
Against my case number I notice no updates from July,2012 ( i.e last update was made on July month) for my interview that happened in Feb,2012. Even after reaching out to consulate – I could not get any response. Appreciate your guidance/advice.
Thanks in advance
Khan,
Unfortunately it is what it is. It means they haven’t made any meaningful progress since July or even if they did then they haven’t reported it back on the site. Do you have an attorney in US who can follow-up w/ DHS?
Saurabh/Khan,
My case is also similar, no update further update since the date of interview. I can have my attorney follow up with DHS. Any suggestions on how that can be done?
Thanks,
stuck_221g,
If it has been more than 60 days since you were put into administrative processing, ask your attorney to contact DHS (contact information available on their website) and get an update for your case.
Thanks Saurabh.
Hi All,
Finally i received refused letter and My case has been sent back to USCIS for possible revocation.Next Action contact DHS-USCIS.
After receiving 2 letters 221 g blue and white and they kept passports for 5 months after 11 months of interview in hyderavad consulate today i received this message.
Hyd CONSULATE IS one of the worst consulate in the world all this due to fake applicants and applications.
All the best freinds who are in same situation.
regs
rajiv reddy
When was ur intervw? was it fr h1b? rajiv
Hi Neha,
My intreview date is feb 23rd 2012 and on july 11th 2012 they have sent back our pasports again with white 221 g case no. finally 4th jan 2013 they have sent email saying petitio sent back to USCIS for possible revocation. All waste of time , money and unnecessary stress…
they would have reject on that day itself y all these shit nonsense ….fron hyd consulate i dont know. any how i am not crazy abotu USA. i been to many countries but never faced this kind of this is 3 rd time for me.anyhow all the best.
Even my f1 visa got rejected rajiv..after 24 days of interview ..they put my status on CEAC website as refused..
why do they play like this , very frustrating..now i dont have time to apply again..
I’m with you, Hyderabad consulate is the worst consulate I have ever seen, so many rejections, so many 221(g) forms. It sucks really.
Hi,
I have visa interview on 2nd of Jan, and the VO handed over a white slip221(g) to submit the project details and my roles and responsibilities document to VFS, I did it on the same date. After a week I have received my passport with out visa and again a white slip with “Additional Administrative Processing before final decision can be made” box checked.
what does that mean? Is there any time frame to know the status, and also what the probability of getting a visa
Narayana,
This means they are doing additional processing in your case which can take time. As they don’t want to hold on to your passport for so long, they have returned it. If their final decision is to issue the visa, they will ask you to submit the passport in future.
Narayana,
Did they give back only your passport or any other documents that you submitted at the time of interview?
I’m asking this because my passport and few organization documents are with them and I need them, though I dont need the VISA… anymore as I know I wont be getting it ..based on other peoples info
Hi All,
I am facing same 221g pink slip issue.
The lady after VO put cross on document specified.
what does it mean pls help?
That means they are doing a background check.
Hi Abhishek,
Which type of background check Employer ,Criminal or Client?
Hi Lucifer,
It depends on case to case basis, if they asked you to submit project documents so may be they want to check your emplyment or any kind of detail. If they asked about your family details thats it is purly secuirty check. So it depends, did they asked any document to submit?
Regards,
Abhishek
Hey , my ceac website shows refused ..from 7th jan ..and my interview was on 14th dec ..till now I did not here from the consulate ..what should I do , when i consulted them they say my paspport is under process..but passport is with me only./..what do mean by refused ? is rejected ?
Thanks Abhishek for reply.
No did’t ask for any document, the lady on counter 30 put cross on the document detail mentioned in Pink slip and give me track number.
Hi Guys,
Please sign this petition. Might make a difference. 17000 Signatures needed by FEB 07, 2013
https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/allow-h1b-approved-cases-get-visa-stamped-us/LWhMc03b
Please make a petition to clear up all 221g cases not to have stamping done in USA. People in USA who got their Visas approved have option of going to Canada or Mexico for stamping, we people in Indi have no option. So we need to make a petition to clear all 221g in India.
Thanks,
Ram
Hi,
My details:
H1B visa interview: 31/Dec/2012
Status: ( WHITE slip) ” Additional Administrative Processing before final decision can be made”
VO told that I cant track my application in online, they will call me back on my mobile or landline number.
I provided all my necessary documents to the VO ( Experience letter, my master’s degree ) originals.
Please let me know how long it takes to get their confirmation, because nothing is pending from my side.
Regards,
Madhes
interview date-14th dec, f1 -221g, he took al my doc except passport and gave me a case numbr, am unable to track that ..no idea what is happening..my orientation is on 14th jan.still waiting ..its 18 days..
Hi Neha,
Did they ask you to submit any documents?
They took al my docs on the same.i20 ,sevis ,except the passport..and gave me a slip ticking admin processing.its still shows under process
Vo took al my doc. that was pinned with passport.he returned the passport and gave me a slip with case numbr
Hmm.. I too on the same boat.. We will wait for some more time.
Pls mail me if you get any updates. If I get any updates .. I will do the same.
ok..cool..
okay…
you can track the status in CEAC site with your applicaiton id….
can case id also you can track in the same site
but you should type a format what the example saying belwo the case number box
Hi,
My details:
H1B visa interview: 31/Dec/2012
Status: (221g WHITE slip ) ” Additional Administrative Processing before final decision can be made”
VO told that I cant track my application in online, they will call me back on my mobile or landline number.
Note: No more documents they asked from me.
I provided all my necessary documents to the VO ( Experience letter, my master’s degree ) originals.
Please let me know how long it takes to get their confirmation, because nothing is pending from my side.
Regards,
Madhes
Hi All,
This is exactly same case with me also , VO, gave me white paper written admin processing, he has given me time also that it will take 2 months to complete admin processing, its been 45 days almost still waiting..but VO has kept my passport with them.
Please keep update so that at least we can get some idea.
Thanks
Nirma
hi but am for f1 ,r u also?am. worried bcoz my orientatn is on 14t jan
Neha,
am for H1B but seems same issue for both cases.
my frnd also got 221 g but her case is resolved in 21days exactly..but we are stuck with holidays in btwn ..so lets c wat happens….
Hi Nirma,
Do you got your visa?.. Did you check your status in CEAC site?.
Regards,
Madhes
My f1 (221g ) got rejected after 24 days..my status shows refused..!! bad luck guys..
Hi Guys,
Please sign this petition. Might make a difference. 17000 Signatures needed by FEB 07, 2013
https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/allow-h1b-approved-cases-get-visa-stamped-us/LWhMc03b
Hi..
My CEAC website shows refused ..after 24days …hyd consulate really sucks..they dint even cross check..juz refused my 221g (f1) without any reason.
Hi Madhes,
Did you get all your original documents back from them? I’m also in similar situation, Kindly reply…Thanks
Hi,
Appeared for H1b visa stamping interview on Dec. 5th at Mumbai consulate, got 221g form (Blue slip).. Asked for list of documents related to employer – tax proof, no. of emplyees, their salary, their legal status, my project details, details role and responsibility etc..Returned the passport
Submiitted all the documents on Dec 21st at VFS center . VFS center person mentioned it should take normally 12 working days..
Is this true or he was just giving me hope
If you get in 12 working days, you are lucky….I think there are very few people who got it within that timeframe….and I think Mumbai cases are resolved slowly….so to generalize, it takes from 2 weeks to seeeeeeeveral months …. I am waiting since December 1st week from Mumbai…
Will keep you updated Vikram..not sure what will happen..but just wanted to check is there anyone on this forum whose 221g (blue form) got resolved real fast (within couple weeks)???
i am also waiting from dec 10 from Mumbai consulate for 221G green slip u got any update?
Hi Guys,
Please sign this petition. Might make a difference. 17000 Signatures needed by FEB 07, 2013 https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/allow-h1b-approved-cases-get-visa-stamped-us/LWhMc03b
Hello Saurabh,
My H1B application is sent back to USCIS by Delhi consulate in july, till now I have not heard anything from them. I just wanted to know that is it confirm that USCIS will revert to my employer/me or they can close my application without asking anything to my employer.
Thanks
Aditya
havent got your passport bak from them yet?
Just to Help the friends who are tensed.This is my case:
Chennai consulate
interview: 7th December
VO:asked me 2 3 questions.and handed me pink slip and told me to go to counter 31
counter 31: lady there gave me a number to track my application.She asked me about my brother,my experience and she took my height measurement.
she took my passport with her and returned all other docs to me and she said wait for 6-8 weeks.
26th december:Visa issued
28th december:collected passport with Visa
dont worry guys,along with me 3 of my friends too got thier pink slip cleared in 20 days.wait patiently .all the best friends!!
I am also waiting ..with f1(221g) ,interview on 14th dec..til now no response from consulate..my orientation is on 14th..no idea..what might happend.
anybody with 221g F1 for spring 2013
Hi,
I have been to H1B visa stamping interview. VO gave me a white slip 221g and told me to submit copy of petition, a detailed description of project to which you will be assigned, complete itinerary services or engagements, detailed description of education requisites for position and also my complete academic credentials. She told me she put my application on hold. I am working with this company fulltime for 7 months now. Also I have gone there for MS in 2008 and havent completed my Masters yet, I told her I am completing this semester in spring 2013. I am not sure what will be the case scenario. My H1B is filed on bachelor degree which I did from India. Any suggestions here. Also do I have to submit original I797 to OFC with documents ?
Thanks.
Simmer,
You need to submit the requested documents and then wait for the processing to complete. At times it is done within few months, at other times it can take up to a year or more. You don’t need to submit original 797 unless they have specifically asked for it. From your post it seems they have asked for a copy of 797, and you can just submit that.
Thanks Saurabh for the reply. My question is do my Masters degree play any role here as I haven’t completed it yet and it have been more than 4 years. As far as my company is concerned it is a reputed company and I am working fulltime. She asked me why you haven’t completed your masters, so I told her that I have some prereqs which I have to complete also I am working on my thesis so it takes time. Do it will play any role with H1B. ?
Simmer,
It is not possible to guess what were the actual reasons for issuing 221g. From the documents asked, they seem to ascertaining:
– client / project / job duties
– whether you qualify for the position based on your Bachelors degree or did the employer take incomplete Masters into account
Hi,
VO asked me for copies of complete academic credentials. So does it mean my bachelor degree and my incomplete master degree marksheets. Or do I have to include high school marksheets too.
Thanks.
Hi Simmer,
its better you include high school mark sheet as well, in the DS-160 I have updated high school details in academic section itself.
Regards,
Abhishek
But do I have to submit marksheets of high school because I am also submitting copy of H1B petition as filed by my employer. it includes all the marksheets high school, bachelors and incomplete masters ?
thanks.
then i think its not required, but i am not sure. can someone else can answer Simmer ?
Simmer,
It is better to arrange the documents in order they have been asked for. So you can submit all degrees and marksheets (including high school) for academic credentials. Later, when you are attaching employer documents, you can submit those copies again. I don’t think sending duplicate copies will cause a harm.
Did your employer do any education evaluation while filing your H-1? If yes, you can include that as well.
How to track case no on your h1b visa for white slip ..?
https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx?eQs=WwjqOlbeRYzCYubaSQI+RA==
check here with your CEAC confirmation numbr …simmer
Can we call the US embassy for further details regarding the case how much time it will take further or should track it online. They havent updated the case date. Its still showing the date next to my appointment date 27th december.
Simmer,
untill your case is not resolved it will show the same date, the day your status will show as “ISSUED” in CEAC, that date will be reflected as status changed date.
Regards,
Abhishek
Hi Friends,
Please help
Got an email from embassy
Your document(s) have been collected from the US Embassy/Consulate.
The passport number being returned is
You have chosen to have your documents delivered to the following location:
What does it mean
Ken
Hi Ken,
Check your status in CEAC “https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx”, if the status is showing as issued that means…you got the VISA and you have to go at address which is mentioned in the mail and collect your passport.
Regards,
Abhishek
God is so Kind ..Got my passport stamped finally 🙂 ….
21 days of pain for gain…I pray everyone for 221g shld get yours issues ASAP.
Thanks Abhishek and Everyone
Congrats Ken….
Can someone please reply to my query? I need some suggestions regarding reappearing for the interview in Dubai as I am at present settled here. I have been waiting for H1 approval since one year now. Please looking forward for some help.
Regards,
Jyoti Singh
Jyoti,
Refer to my response to your earlier post.
Saurabh,
Did you recieve your passport? Cosulate asked me the same question and even mine is in still pending…I gave interview on 11dec…
i have 12mb email attached with documents which was requested through 221(g) white form during my interview….
How many Mb maximum mail we can send to consulate?
Can someone please help me.
I went for H1b stamping in january 2012 in India and then, they asked me for extra documents, which I gave them them as soon as I could and in return they gave me “yellow slip”. Since then I am tracking my H1B visa and they always reply that it is “under administrative processing” it’s been 11 months and no proper reply.
Now, I am settled in Dubai and planning to appear for H1b stamping again. Is it a good decision. Please help.
Regards,
Jyoti Singh
Hi,
Could you please let me know if anyone came across with below situation.
I had VISA interview for H1B,
Visa officer asked me below question:
1. for whom do you work : i answered him my client name then realize i gave wrong anser then i told him my client name and my company name.
2. what is your qualification : i told him BE (Computer Science)
He said VISA issued and gave me pink slip and send me on the other counter .
There an Indian lady asked my siblings name and age, then messured my hight and told me it will take 3 to 4 weeks to get .. I am not sure if i will be getting the VISA or not.
Can anybody tell me if came across with same sitiaution
Regards.
Abhishek
In my case on the other counetr lady also asked if any country i have visited , then i have visited US
Hi,
No, I haven’t come across such a situation. But did they collect your passport? If, they did then there are very high chances that you will get it approved.
Regards,
Jyoti.
yes they have collected the passport. even i am hoping the same
Abhishek,
Even i had similar experience and waiting for visa….God know when will we recieve it…
Pavab,
did they take your siblings details and asked which contury you have travelled ? which consulate you went for interview i went chennai . For me VO said VISA issued and gave do’s and don’t in US booklet and told go to counter no 31 . counter no 31 lady told me it will take 3 to 4 weeks. Not sure when will receive .
Regards,
Abhishek
Yes Abhishek looks like we had 100% similar experience…i too attended the interview in chennai..consulate said your visa is approved and haneded the pink slip and asked me go to counter 31, a lady over there asked me my siblings details and previous travel. when i asked her is my visa approved she said yes and then i asked when will get my passport she said it will take 3 to 4 weeks.
did your interview happen on counetr number 23 ?
No at counter no 18… my time slot was 9.30….
oh ok, My slot was at 10
Abhishek,
Most likely they are doing background check on you. Usually these are resolved in 3-8 weeks.
HI Abhishek,
Exactly same questions asked by the lad y after VO gave Pink slip.
Took my PP but did not ask for any documents.
Told I have to wait dor 4 – 8 weeks– please advise
Hi Ken,
I am still waiting for my passport, The lady took my passport told me it will take 3-4 weeks to get the passport. I hope should be receving the passport in week. We guys don’t have any choice apart from waiting.
Regards,
Abhishek
Abhishek,
Do check your status on CEAC website (US Govt Dept of State). Generally, the Chennai PDF is couple of days late and CEAC website is the most accurate one. In fact currently they are moving the 221G at decent pace. Although, if you get stcuk in the last 3-4 left (for that particular day), there is a good chance that its going to be an extremely long wait (probably more than 4-6 months). Good luck.
My interview was on 11th dec, its been 3 weeks so I thought I should be getting in a weeks time but sure how long I need to wait
Hi 221g_chn,
I did check on the CEAC also, but there also it is showing under processing.
Regards,
Abhishek
Hi Abhishek,
Thought you had recieved you passport with visa by now.
There was a lot of pink slip issued in chennai along with me during my in . I understand it’s very painful for all of us. In my case I donnot know what will happen to my oppurtunity if Visa is not approved in 2-3 weeks from now
I am sure my God will be kind for all of us with genuine docs.
Even this moment will pass away – just matter of days for you to get ur passport with visa.
Thanks,
Ken
same here abhishek…need to wait ..bcoz of holidays they dont wrk ..by the way am for f1(221g)
Hi KEN,
I am facing same 221g pink slip issue.
The lady after VO put cross on document specified.
what does it mean pls help?
Hi Ken,
Still i did not get any update from consulate. for few people its done in 3 weeks. my 3 weeks just got over by monday, but mine is still pending. 🙁
Regards,
Abhishek
Hi Neha,
US conuslate guys are working, we can see there is update in the tracker.
Regards,
Abhishek
Update? how did u find that? can you plz point me to that?
which consulate did you go, here i have placed link for chennai consulate.
“http://chennai.usconsulate.gov/221g-administrative-processing.html”
Am from hyderabad consulate..abhishek
hyderabad consulate F1(221g) u got me right? << abhishek
check here “http://hyderabad.usconsulate.gov/pending-or-refused-visas.html”
But in the link u gave am unable to track since i got the visa..I can check in ceac website it shows pending..
then i am not sure
Hi Abhishek,
Did you get your visa stamped ? Mine is a similar case with counter 31 (Height/sibling/country of travel). I am on H1b renewal.
yes FJ, I got the VISA. Sorry for late response i was out of town.
Regards,
Abhishek
Jyoti Singh,
I would suggest calling up the US consulate in Dubai and ask them about their policies on TCNs (third country nationals). If they say that you can appear for interview in Dubai then it’s worth the risk.
Thanks Saurabh. I will definately check with them. Also, just to let you know that I am here on Residence Visa.
Regards,
Jyoti
Hi All,
My case is in Administrative processing from last more than 20 months …
and from interview to till date i got same reply from embassy like “your case is in Administrative processing ”
and Yesterday i got mail from VFS stating that ” my case is sent back to KCC on 18th may 2011 and from KCC it is return to USCIS for review” That type of status i received after 20 months …???? What does it mean….
Any one have idea ?? Please share….
what to do and what output will come…
thanks
Rajnikant,
The consulate determined that you are not eligible for visa, and have sent the case back to USCIS for review. USCIS will now review the case and will either re-affirm it or deny it. Again, this can take few to several months. You may want to evaluate filing H-1 again next fiscal year instead of waiting for a resolution on this H-1 petition.
I went for my L1B stamping at chennai and was given a pink slip. The VO asked few questions and after saying you visa is approved sent me to a different counter where I was haned over a pink slip. This is really frustrating bcoz I was handed 221G before too when I went for H1 stamping. Does anyone know if it’ll be quick this time considering that I was tagged 221G before too. I have FNU in my name due to no surname. I guess this is the main reason.
221g_chn,
Pink slips are usually resolved in 3-8 weeks. They may be doing background check to ascertain that you really are the person you are claiming to be (guessing from FNU) or something else.
I attended my H1B visa interview at chennai last week and was given a 221g pink slip. Can someone please explain the format of the 221g reference number.
Eg: 2012333 456 1
If this is the case number, i can figure 2012 is the year and 333 is the day of the year.
The next three numbers come in series like 3**, 4**, 5**, 6** …
Can someone plz explain the significance of this and how the numbers are assigned. I mean is it some kind of a serial number or does it depend on the type of the visa applied for…
I don’t think there is a concrete answer to the numbers in series. However, the 3 digit number after 2012 does indicate the number of days. I have seen that as of 7th Dec, they have done a lot of processing of people till 325/326. So, keep your finger crossed. Probably by end of this week you should recieve a positive answer.
221G,
Any update ?
I think there is some significance with the number they assign 456 1 especially the last digit…
Hi,
Did you recieve your Visa?
Not yet… 🙁 Still waiting.. But i can see some activity for the cases around my case number. Hopefully i will get it in another week.
good luck…It seems chennai is moving around 3-4 weeks target. So by 1st week of Jan, I am also hoping. Also, the FNU is looking like a common thread for a decent chunk of people.
221g,
Did you check your status at CEAC website. Did you get any updates ?
The status on the CEAC website got updated today and it says ISSUED 🙂 I had to wait for 1.5 months for the admin processing to complete (common muslim name)
Hi ,
I have also a common muslim name and passport is in admin process with delhi embassy.
Please advise how to check activity for the cases around my case number.
Really need your help.
Lucifer,
You can look up the case on Delhi Embassy website or at this link.
A very tragic end to my interview. I have gone for H1B visa interview at Mumbai consulate and everything was going well where he asked for BEP letter which i had and showed him with the perfection as I am having B1 visa already expiring in 2019 which also I got after admin processing so this time I was pretty much sure that I will get me visa issued in one go but suddenly VO issued Yellow slip under (221g) without asking any further documents. I am not having First name in my passport so I use FNU instead of it and my main concern here is I am having my passport expiring on 31-07-2013 which is quite near.If they take more than 2 months for Admin processing then it would bring more trouble to me as passport should be valid for minimum 6 months. Can they again issue 221g for my passport expiry and Can I renew my passport in the mean time and give them a new passport for stamping if they ask me to submit the passport?
I don`t know why they have again issued me yellow slip as i have already traveled to US before in 2009 for 1 month on business visa and when i already had Admin processing earlier? Do you think its a name check as my full name is Sarabjeet Singh where I dont have first name on my passport .
Please suggest how to go on from here?
Thanks,
Sarab
Sarab,
Any progress on your 221G ?
no buddy … no progress in my case either .. even u have FNU in my name and this is second time I m going under 221g
Saurabh,
Even i have FNU in my name…is that the cause for 221g…
Pavan,
Did you get any updates ? When was your VI ?
Hi,
I got and email from consulate to collect the passport from the address i mentioned.And the status is showing as issued.
Thanks,
Pavan
Pavan,
When did you appear for your interview in Chennai Consulate?
I appeared in Chennai on Dec 6th and was handed over pink slip.
I attende interview on 11th dec
any news for you bro??
@221g pain again
No bro the same status is still there on consulate page.
@221g
Brother pls suggest me the sequence which you used to guess for your case number..It is very needful for me….Thanks in advance
221 pain again,
It is not necessary that the slip is b/c of FNU. In my opinion, they would issue pink slip if FNU was the issue as they would do background check to ensure that you are the person you are claiming to be and not someone else. Yellow slip is typically issued for other reasons like project, client, employer etc.
In either case, you just need to wait for them to complete the processing.
I am working for BEP company and consulate too checked my BEP letter minutely… Am I stuck in visa donkey or visa condor? any clue because i have found that if no letters are asked from you then they do the name checks which they call as “hit”
221g,
What discipline was your education and what’s the industry you are going to work in? At times, this also triggers pink slip (TAL – technology alert list).
I am working in Computers… as Database admin…
221g pain again,
Your technology doesn’t seem to be TAL related. What about the client you will be working for?
My Client is big Pharma company… and just to update u my ceac code appeared on the pdf and i have submitted my passport… is this a good news?? hw much time it can take more?? and in my ceac tracker site the case update date is showing on 1-feb-2013…it means they have issued it??
221g pain again,
I have seen some cases in Pharma, Biotech being referred for TAL. Once they have the passport and ready to issue visa, it will take 2-3 more days. You can then collect it from the collection center or it will be sent through Blue Dart.
got my stamped passport!! thx all for your help!! n thx Saurabh for encouraging ppl around!!
221g pain again,
Nice! Congrats!
One thing to watch out for – See if your visa stamp has the security clearance annotation? If that is there, then you cannot avail interview waiver in future. Just want you to be aware of that and plan accordingly.
Hi Saurabh – Is the visa waiver program applicable for H1b persons too?
when was it started?
In the following link they didn`t mention for India.
http://www.ustraveldocs.com/in/in-niv-visawaiverinfo.asp
thanks
sree
srikanth,
There are 2 things – visa waiver program where one doesn’t need a visa to travel to US, and interview waiver program where one doesn’t need to appear for the interview but still need the visa
Here are the details for interview waiver program:
http://www.ustraveldocs.com/in/in-niv-visarenew.asp
Hi All!
I have some important question need to ask, my interview went well and VO, said everything look OK to me, I am satisfied with your answers, your H1B visa needs some admin processing which will take up to 2 months, don’t worry. he kept my passport with them and he gave me 1 booklet for legal rights in usa said read it before you fly and 1 white paper mentioned admin processing but not 221(g), that seems simple photo copied white paper.
Please let me know what are chances i will get visa stamped and is it possible i will get before two months ?
suggestions and prior experience highly appreciated !!!!
Hello,
My son has the same case, who was interviewed on 1st June 2012 for H1B visa and his passport was retained. He was issued a similiar slip and wanted some more documents, which he submitted on 25th June 2012.
Since then passport pending with embassy.Whenever we send mail to them, their reply is,
“passport is under process at US embassy”.
May I know has some body similar experience of such a long delay in returning passport.
KS RAWAT,
There is not much one can do except to wait. The processing can take anywhere from few weeks to several months.
Nirma,
Keeping the passport is a positive sign and the officer also mentioned that everything looks good. Still they can find something during the processing, but it is not possible to guess until they complete the processing.
hi ,
I attended my interview on 18th October at kolkata consulate .
VO asked me general questions like where you stay in US ,what company you work for and in end she handed me white form but she kept my passport .
White form didnt mention to submit any documents.
I got an email late to submit my contract document with EV since I am in EVC model..
I submitted that but after that I didnt hear anything from consulate..
Today is 35 th day but no reply 🙁
is there any way to followup with them?I dont have my passport tooo..It is very frustrating to just wait.
That is very frustrating . Even my wife is dealing with the same. Her interview was on oct 15th. Let me know if you heard back from consulate
Kamini,
Not much you can do except to wait. It can take weeks or months for them to complete the processing. You can check on the respective consulate website using your receipt number (if allowed) or by calling them.
she was asked to submit documents which she had already submitted. Any update on your case.
Hi,
2 days back i attended my visa interview, it was cool n lasts less than 30 sec.
VO Q:
– highest quali?
-company name in US?
-job in US?
-new h1b?
-Married r single?
In the Interview he didnt ask me any letters. as he have already ds 160, passport, 797.
VO kept my passport (no photo) and gave me one slip which is lime color asking for some additional docs.
docs rqd:
-CV
-flightplans
-any one travelling or not vth me?
-US address
i am gonna submit these within this week, my q is what are the chances of my visa? i am sooo tensed coz he kept my passport but he dint ask my photo.
pls some one reply me.
1 more i dont think they gave 221g slip. its just a paper in lime color with the heading saying ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTS REQUIRED.
Tensed,
No one can tell what the outcome or chances are. You will have to wait for them to complete the processing, which can take few weeks to several months.
Thank you very much to all active members on this thread. redbus2us proved to be a great help throughout stamping process and have been following this thread for quite a few months.
Here is my experience
I came to India last year for visa stamping and New delhi consulate sent my petition back to USCIS and even after 10 months USCIS never got to my petition.
I got a new employer and they filed my h1B transfer and here is experience.
Sept 27, 2012- H1B interview at New delhi.
me: Hi, good morning
vo: no reply
vo: pass on your documents.
me: passed on passport, I-797 and DS-160 confirmation.
vo: how did you find this job?
me: I had my resume on monster.com and XXX picked it from there. After that we had couple of interviews.
vo: Whats is your highest qualification?
me: Master of science in ABC Engineering.
vo: Whats your job role?
me: explained very well. (As I had practiced more than 100 times in front of mirror.)
vo: That sounds very complex (first time I saw little smile on her face)
me: actually it is ( with a little smile)
vo: Is this job with end client?
me: yes
vo: Who is end client?
me: ABC
vo: Who will supervise your work?
me: Engineering manager from my petitioner.
vo: So your manager is from XXX (my petitioner)?
me: yes
vo: Will he be with you all the times at client location?
me: No, he will supervise my work from XXX office. He will visit me at client location. we will have weekly teleconference meetings and video conference on need basis. Email will be the best way to get work and report back.
vo: How frequently will he visit you at client location?
me: Once in a month.
VO started typing something on her comp and after about 1 min she said” ur interview is all set. please move to window 30.” she gave back my passport, I797 and confirmation page.
I moved to window 30 and showed her my documents. She kept typing for about 2 mins and then she asked me to wait.
After about 5 mins she gave me pink slip with Case number and said ” case will be updated on website in two weeks and we dont need any documents from u and we need to do admin processing on ur case. u can track ur case on our website.”
me: how long will it take?”
Lady: It may take anywhere between 3-6 weeks.
Me: you are keeping my passport. what if I have to travel somewhere?
Lady: You can keep it with you and we will send you email once the Admin processing is done and you can deposit at OFC center.
me: will it make any impact on my case whether I keep my passport with me or deposit it with u?
Lady: Absolutely not. We will let u knw once the process is complete and u can deposit.
me: Ok then, give me my passport. (As I had heard so many horrible incidents about passport at embassy)
She kept my I-797 and confirmation page and gave me pink slip and passport.
After one week, I got email to submit the passport at nearest OFC center.
I deposited my passport at delhi OFC center.
Right after one week I got a call from OFC to collect passport. (I was checking status very impatiently and my status was “transit from consulate”when I received the call.)
Got to collection center and opened passport and I got what I had been waiting for last one year.
H1B APPROVED.
Hope you all get it approved. Wish u good luck.
I think luck and confidence plays a big role…..No documents asked during interview….I did not even open my file….
My earlier case is still under admin processing and VO did not ask any question on that.
Which is ur earlier case? Have you given visa interview before?
I heard delhi is good, des it matters to travel from bangalore to delhi r chennai shoul e fine? Please assist….
Yes, my first H1B interview was in Nov, 2011 and is still under admin process.
Both the times I appeared in Delhi and experience was totally different one from other. I cant comment on Mumbai/Chennai as I have not been there. I think it depends on VO how he takes the case and every case is different from other.
Saurabh,
Can you please list documents that I need to carry with myself while traveling to USA.
FYI.. I got my H1B stamped and joining new employer in US.
Thank you
Bill,
797, passport, offer letter, employer/manager contact details, other information like where you would stay, when you would report to work etc. This is for the Port of Entry.
Other documents that you should have w/ you are marksheets, degree certificates, resume, experience letters etc.
H4 stamping – is Original W2 of H1 holder is needed or copy of W2 is suffiecient ?
Thanks in advance.
Hi,
I had my interview on 16th Nov at New Delhi consulate. I was issued 221g White form and the visa officer kept my passport and asked me to submit the 3 documents at the VFS (Tax forms, Offer Letter , Job description letter). VO said that they will review my application again and will get back to me. Also he said that consulate will be contacting me.
So should I still be hopeful that I will get the visa? and how long this process will take? Also he kept my passport so is that a good sign?
What are my chances?
Thanks
J
Hi,
It is a good sign that they have kept your passport. You should receive a mail from them. No time frame, have patience and hope.
Thanks
Hi,
I got my passport with Visa on it today. I got 221G white form on Friday and on Tuesday the passport with Stamping.
All the best to everyone…
Regards
J
Hi,
My Visa interview happened on Nov 15 in chennai.
VO asked me 3 questions- Company Name, Client Name & work exp. After that he said that your visa is approved , but we need to do some administrave processing on your case. After that he handed me 221 g pink slip and asked me to wait.
In next counter one indian lady was there she kept my passport , DS-160 and took my height, sibling details.
Daily i am checking my status on chennai US consulate site. It is PENDING PROCESSS.
When should i expect to get my Passport\VISA . Any one has similar experiencr.
Please share .
Thanks ,
Saurabh
Saurabh Singh,
Pink slips are usually resolved in 3-8 weeks.
You got ur Visa?
Hello Everyone ,
I went for the H1B visa interview today at the delhi consulate . Please find below the experience :
1) First Question was have u been to US before .I said yes , then he came back to me and said what were you doing there for five months ? I told him I was taking KT , then he said I am not convinced and told me to wait a second .He came back and told me that he has cancelled my B1 Visa .
After then he told me now we we will start your H1 process .He asked me few question what is your role , company profile , no of people working in US , who is the client, where were you staying on B1(hotel or apartment) -I told him apartment and then he asked me were you sharing the room also – i told him no , then he asked me H1 salary , b1 perdium . project information . I told the answers for all the questions .Finally he asked for I129 , contract with client, Statement of work , and client letter .He went through all of them and finally told me – I am keeping your passport and all the document s, will review all of them once again .
Can you please tell me now what will be step further and what are the various possibilities that can happen ?
Warm Regards,
Ashish
Ashish,
You have to wait now for them to complete their processing. There is not much you can do.
Do they stick to the time they metion?if they say it takes 2-3 weeks do they really mean it?
Pavan,
They don’t as there is no SLA. I have seen cases pending for up to a year.