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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

US Visa Administrative Processing Time for decision

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

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

US Visa 221g Administrative Processing Time for inquiry

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

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

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

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

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

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

Does delay in 221g processing mean rejection?

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

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

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

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

What happens in case of rejection with 221g ?

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

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

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

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

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

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

   

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2,074 Comments

  1. hello everyone! i promised myself that I was going to write about my experience if my visa was granted to give hope to others going through this administrative processing hell. I went for my interview for L2 visa on the 27th of Feb 2014. Everything was going smoothly. I got in, was fingerprinted etc. Below are details of my interview with the VO
    Me: Good morning!
    VO: i see you applied for L2 visa. how long have you been married?
    Me: 2 months
    VO: when and how did you meet your husband?
    ME: answered
    VO: let me see your marriage certificate
    I hand over the certificate. Alsp tried to give him the wedding album + original invitation card but he shoved it back at me and snapped “i didnt ask you for that!” I apologised.
    VO: I see that he lived in the UK for some months. How come you never went to the UK to visit him?
    me: Cos of my job etc…
    VO: (now hostile) I think its very strange that you didnt go to see your husband while he was in the UK.
    At this point, he gives me a white form with administrative processing circled. He then says i shouldnt bother to contact them them until after 60 days. Went home sad and cried my eyes out. Looked through so many forums and blogs that whole day and everyone kept saying it takes about 5-6 months. I was devastated.
    This was on a thursday. I spent the weekend alternately praying and being sad.Got a call on monday (4 days later) the following week asking me to come back for another interview! went the following thursday. was taken to a place like an interrogation room and was asked lots of questions. I gave answers to all of them. Then the same VO that interviewed me last time called my name and this time, he had a small smile on his face and he said “Welcome back! Thank you for your patience. Your visa has been approved”. I was so happy, i was shaking 🙂
    I just wanted to share my experience cos i can imagine how discouraging the waiting is and how powerless it makes you feel. I think the most helpful thing i can tell you is to pray and think positively. Sounds cliched but its true. I would chant “i am getting my visa on thursday” in my head about 50 times a day and fought all the negative thoughts. best of luck everyone!

    Reply
  2. Hi Dear,

    I attended my visa interview on 4th feb under B1 category, upon the interview officer given me a Green 221G Hand-out and informed me to send all the documents on email. When I checked the online status (21 feb, 2014), it is still under Administrative Processing. We are under a business emergency and I need to attend meetings max by the last week of feb 2014. Can any 1 help me out, what can I do ?

    Reply
  3. I was interviewed for H1B visa on 30th Jan 2014 and they put my case under admin processing. I submitted required documents on 31st morning. Till date no update on my case and I already wasted my return ticket. If anybody has same situation please share. It will be a great help.

    Reply
    • I also had interview on 30 jan 2014 and they put my case under 221g as there was only one doc missing. I submitted it on 10th February. There is no update on my status yet it is under admin processing only . However my status update got changed from 30 jan 2014 to 13 feb 2014 but status is same admin processing .. Don’t know what to do ?
      Have you heard anything back ??

      Reply
      • I have been interviewed on Jan 8 and they suspend my application under 221g. However, I got an email 3 hours after interview (Clearance response) and asked me to sent my passport along with the yellow suspending letter. They received my passport in Jan 15, 2014. They didn’t issue the visa so far (20 Feb) and informed me that my case is still pending. Does any one have any idea?

        Reply
          • It has been exactly 2 months. I haven’t received the visa yet. I have a Moslem name and my interview was in Toronto. Practically, I lost my trip but hope to get it for another trip in July.
            Do you think “a Moslem name” is an red flag?

  4. H4 visa interview experience Mumbai Jan 2014 (221g White Slip)

    http://221gwhiteslipusvisa.blogspot.com/2014/02/h4-interview-experience-221g-white.html

    Hello

    My husband got his H1b visa visa approved on 26th December 2013 from Chennai US consulate and H1B visa stamped passport after two days.

    We started processing H4 visa process for me n my 5 months old daughter (DS160 and payment of Fees). Got OFC done for me and my daughter on 17th Jan 2014.

    We had visa interview appointment on 21 Jan 2014 7.45 am (first slot for that day) and i was first one to give interview for visa.

    VO: Good Morning
    Me: Good Morning
    VO: May i have your Passport
    I gave my n my daughter’s passport to VO
    VO: Do you have your husband’s visa with you?
    Me: Yes (i gave him my husband’s paasport also)
    VO: Where is your husband working currently?
    Me: ABC company (Indian Company)
    VO: Where he will be working in USA?
    Me: XYZ Company (Company In USA)
    VO: Why is he leaving company like ABC and going for small company XYZ?
    Me: He wanted global career exposure
    Then VO started nodded his head
    VO: Why you did not appeared for visa interview with your husband?
    Me: We had applied for my daughter’s passport and i wanted to apply for visa with my daughter
    VO: Where is your daughter?
    Me: She is outside with my husband. My Daughter is 5 months old.
    VO: When did you got married?
    Me: 24 Feb 2011
    VO: Why you husband went for his visa interview in chennai and you in mumbai?
    Me: There was no interview slots available in Mumbai during that time and his employer wanted him to go for visa interview in that week only.
    Again VO nodded his head
    VO: When did you got married?
    Me: 24 Feb 2011
    VO: Where you daughter was born?
    Me: Mumbai
    VO: Where your stay?
    Me: Mumbai

    Then VO left from his seat and went to one lady (American) with our passport and he talk to her 8 to 10 min then he came back to his seat and started typing in his computer for 7 to 8 min

    VO: When did you got married?
    Me: 24 Feb 2014
    VO: Where you husband will be working in USA?
    Me: AM, MMMM

    Then he again started typing in his computer and after 5 min one white paper to me and said
    VO: Sorry i will have to take your passport for some admin processing
    Me: You will keep my husband’s passport also
    VO: Yes i have to take his passport for enquiry
    Me: When will i get all three passport?
    VO: It will not take more that one week. You will get notification regarding your passport through Email or SMS.
    Me: Ok

    Then i left from there. I was very tensed because VO took my husbands passport also and i did not wanted my husbands visa get affect because of my interview.

    After two days i got mail on my phone that my and my daughters passport is ready for pickup and even my husband got same message.

    Next Day we went BKC, Mumbai US Trade center and got all three passport with VISA STAMP.

    Missed those golden words “YOUR VISA IS APPROVED” but still ALL WELL THAT ENDS WELL

    Reply
  5. Hi
    I applied for a visit US visa in Oct 2012. they put me under the admin process for like 16 months. then I got a new email asking me for a second interview. The second interview also ended up to put me through the admin process again. A few days after i got an email asking me to send a new detailed itinerary. does it mean a good or bad sign ? any suggestion about such a long process which has taken so far like 17 months?

    Reply
  6. Hi guys,

    I got my Non-immigrant visa stamped in 2 weeks even after getting green form 221g, will the visa be given for 10 years or visa validity will be reduced.

    Anyone reply for this.

    Thanks

    Reply
    • I just gave interview on last Thursday 20Feb2014 they gave me blue slip and mention admin process going on, lady said we will contact you to submit required document as well as you passport. how much time i should wait?
      should i call to customer care?
      i applied for B1 US visa they should not take much time as my training will be start very soon.
      Please suggest…?

      Reply
  7. thanks for your brief explanation on 221g. i had a similar response from the consular officer (CO) after appearing for an interview three times. the 1st CO asked me for call records, income tax transcript and marriage pictures and on my 2nd appearance i sent all these doc. But the 2nd CO give me a 3rd date to reappear and i went and it was a different CO. the CO told me i have been interviewed 3x by 3COs and they are not convinced with my marriage. She gave me 221g letter with my birth certificate and my marriage certificate and told me they are going to send the case back to USCIS and it will take 6 months. Pls, i want to know whether there is any hope in this case or i should ask my wife to give it to a lawyer. thanks

    Reply
    • Hi,

      Am hearing such a case for the first time. And very strange.
      Just curious to know
      Has your H1 been stamped
      And did your wife got 221g for H4?

      Reply
  8. Hi All,

    I attended interview on 20 Nov.
    The interview was for about 15 mins, later after waiting for an hour or so, I was interviewed by Indian lady. She took all my documents and told me to meet the VO officer who took my interview.
    VO officer gave me a 221g blue slip, in that it is Checked in the check box which states “Your application requires additional administrative processing before final decision can be made.”
    They did not ask for any additional documents.
    After few days, my client was also contacted.

    I got a call from chennai office 2 days back. In the call they told me that there is a courier for me and asked me as from where I can collect it, “either from chennai consulate or bangalore VFS office. Since am in bangalore, I told them to send it to Bangalore VFS office.
    They told that once the courier reaches VFS office, i’ll be getting mail, but they didn’t provide any information on the documents present in the courier, also when I check the status in “https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx”, i still see that my case is in “Admin Processing”.

    I guess I have to wait till I get an e-mail.
    Here are some of my questions
    Any idea if this is a positive sign?
    Did you also get a call from chennai office to collect the docs?
    Sending the documents back, does it mean that my visa is issued or do they send the docs back if visa is rejected also?

    Reply
    • 20th Nov. and today is 4th Jan.
      I would call it a very positive sign. I had also almost similar experience.
      Sending the docs back doesn’t really imply that your VISA is issued, but yes, in 99% of the cases, there is a YES :). So, don’t worry just wait for sometime.
      Since you said, your client was contacted, this simply means they wanted to do some check in the background and that’s why your case took ~1.5 months of time.
      All the very best!!

      Reply
      • Thanks Neeraj for the positive thoughts.

        How long did it take for you to clear the Administrative Process?
        And when did the status in “https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx” change to Issued.

        Did you get an e-mail notification to send your passport for visa stamping?

        Reply
    • Hi, You are too lucky. The process got completed in few weeks.

      The package will have all your documents and another blue slip which will say, “Please submit your passport so we can issue the visa”.

      All the very best.

      Reply
      • @ Anadmin

        Thanks for the wishes.

        Am waiting for mail for consulate to collect the documents.
        Praying for my visa to be stamped soon.

        Reply
        • hello sir, so sorry about your case. But there is no cause for alarm. Administrative processing is done when the embassy wants to confirm the information you gave them, due to the influx of applicants the time ranges from 1-4 weeks. I have been in this situation before but mine lasted for just two(2) weeks. Thank God!.
          You should not contact the embasy until they call you, and please pray to God to make the process fast. That was i did and i got a quick response. Good luck

          Reply
          • @ oluwatoba

            Thanks for the reply.

            US consulate asked me to submit few documents.
            I have submitted them. Any idea as how long they take to respond after submitting the documents?

            Were you also in the similar situation?

  9. My cousin(interview faced march 24,2013) and Me(interview faced April 24,2013) US embassy .After 9 month cousin got his Immigrant Visa but im still Administrative processing continue in 8 month.Have any possibility when i reached 9th month to get my visa………

    Reply
  10. I gave my H1B Visa interview on 23-Sep and got a 221(g) from NewDelhi. The interview Officer took my passport at the counter and asked me to submit my Employer’s 2011/2012 Tax return documents at VFS. I submitted them on 24-Sep. MY case displayed as “Administrative Processing” but I got an update on VisaStatusCheck link stating Case Creation Date:23-Sep-2013 and Status Updated Date:04-Nov-2013 but it is still “Administrative Processing”.
    Anyone can please help me here and let me know how much more time it will take? It is 17Dec2013 today and has been more than 60 Days but no update yet. My Employer has contacted the local senator office and they have contact the Embassy too but no response yet.
    IS there anything I can do?

    Reply
    • hi i am facing the similar problem iam done with interview on 10th oct and i got mail to submit ta documents on November 21st later i got my date triggered on 27th of December still there is no mail and no update to me could you please tell me what happened to your case further .

      Reply
  11. my interview was on 10-10-2013 at consulate in casablanca morocco after interview the consul she said your approve and come back on tuesday to get your visa they took my passport but the time when i get out from the consulate they call me and ask me do not come on tuesday she said your approve but we have some
    Administrative Processing we will call you back to come get your visa when Administrative Processing is done and now it’s one month and 20 days but i dont get call from them this what i dont understand.

    Reply
  12. Hi I applied for H1b Stamping at Singapore on 3rd October, I got pink slip embassy asked for tax documents, list of h1b employer, client letter, non wage report. I submitted all the documents and they took my pink slip and I didnot get any update since.
    I came to know from my employer that they have asked Client President on my roles and responsibilitis in week ending 1st of Novemner and my client has replied to that ……. Any input … After verification .. how many days it takes to get update from Embassy

    Regards,

    Reply
    • Dear Nav,

      I attended H1b interview in Dubai Consulate on Oct. They gave me yellow form with no documents checked or asked even in Interview.

      I checked with employer even he said nothing was asked on my case and another case from same employer.

      Let me know for any update or guidance

      Thanks

      Reply
      • hello Imran,

        I went for the interview this September 04 of 2013. My case its similar to yours, Interview went fine and the VO only asked the contract, passport and the notice of action, at the end gave us the 221g yellow without marking anything on it only the case number. Till now no response, you have any answer from them?

        Reply
      • Hi Saurabh,

        I got my Visa finally. They asked my clients and employers both about my Job Details and do thorough checking. Everything was genuine so did not have any issue. But this wait has nearly killed me starting from filing to lottery and then on result and then on Administrative Processing. So In Singapore if u any doubt on Client and Empoyer or you are applying through consultant 90% chances are that you will be caught. Singapore Embassy always aks for all documents. TAX, Non Wage, Client letter. Be genuine, you will get Visa stamped in Singapore.

        Regards,
        Naveen

        Reply
        • Dear Naveen,

          Could you please shore some more details like what is your visa type and how much long it took to get cleared, how many times your case got updated on ceac site, did you do any follow ups??

          please share would be helpful to me as I am waiting since more than 10 months for fresh H1b AP.

          Reply
          • Hi,
            Can you explain ur experience in Singapore consulate? what has happend exactly and why they given u the slip?

            Thanks
            Babu

  13. Hi Saurabh

    Please help me on this. Yesterday I went to Chennai Consulate for my H1b visa interview. After the officer asked me a few common questions he asked for the client letter. Then he said “we would like to have your documents verified as we have concerns on your client.” FYI, my client is a giant company in the US. Then the VO verified my documents and kept all my petition documents along with client letter. Afterwards the officer called me and gave me a blue slip stating I would have to wait for few weeks as they want to do some verification. In the blue slip they have checked “Other” category and have not mentioned anything else in that. I tried checking the status online and found that they have not uploaded my case yet(even though the cases after me are already uploaded). I called the customer service and they told its in admin processing status. I don’t know what I have to do next? (except waiting). I tried reading blogs for the blue form “Others” category, but could not find one. I am scared because, I have already resigned from my current company and looking forward to go to US in December. Please tell me what I have to do?

    Reply
  14. Hi Saurabh sir

    Pls advise here. I attended h1b VI on aug 27 2013 in hyd for H1B. mine is transfer from A to B. I got petition papers from Cmpny A of US IN 2012. company B in india is a big MNC. I was working for B from past 3.6 years. I got selected for A over telephonic interview with help of monstor.com and they processed my h1b. When I got approved papers from A iam in other country went to serve company B client. Then I thought to transfer my h1b from A to B and B accepted and started processing. B petition is also approved by USCIS.

    Now I went to interview on behalf of B. My interview was cool for 5mins and after that VO told that A revoked my petition and he dont have job at all to offer you. I told him I had a valid petition papers of A and A s offer letter also. I can show u o said. He told me that iam ineligible to enter US. Then iam blur. After 1min he only told me I will apply a waiver for you. I thought he is kind of helping me and said yes. He returned me back alll and issued 221g white form with admin processing ticked. Can you pls put ur thoughts on what would had happened. Between aug 28 and sep 13 there are 3 updates and after that till today no updates and still in AP.

    NOTE : I didnt go for visa intercview for company A. I just transferred approved petition papers of A to B. And went for B company VI. I had A s petition papers and A s offer letter also. VO didnt ask me any.

    Pls share ur thoughts on whether the

    Reply
    • Hi,

      I applied for a Business Visa on 7th January 2013 alongwith my wife and kid. My employer is based out of London, whereas I am in Kolkata. On 14th January, both my wife and my kid got their passports back duly stamped for 10 years but my case is still under administrative processing.

      I contacted the consulate several times for my status and they have the same stereotypical answer.

      Recently I got a call to appear at the consulate along with my wife for a second interview. I did ask the person the reason for bringing my wife along for the second interview as she had already got the visa in January 2013. He said it is going to be better if you got her along.

      Can someone tell me what could be the reason? Will I get my visa after a wait of almost 10 months?

      Reply
  15. Hi,

    My H1B was refused under 221(G) and I received a typical 221(G) refusal letter mentioning that my employer is either not eligible or willing to sponsor me a visa…..etc etc

    I received this letter in early March 2013 and it has been more than 7 months since then and my petitioner attorney or I have not received any communication in this regard. The USCIS status shows that they received my documents back and they are reviewing the same.

    My hope of getting an H1b is almost dead. When I called my attorney he said 80% of such cases see permanent refusal.

    In the first place I dont know the reason why a 221(G) was issued. My first name has a common muslim name “Mohammed”. Could it be the reason? Is there any chance of me getting my visa approved anymore??

    Thanks,
    Mohammed.

    Reply
    • As/k Mohammed,

      When you attended your Visa interview & after how many months of your VI you got this denial letter.I am also waiting dear since feb 2013 for fresh H1b.

      Pls provide me some background so that I can co relate my. It would be very helpful to me so request you to pls help me. you can reach me at rafat dot sayeed at gmail

      Reply
      • Hello,

        My petition was approved in Oct 2012. I went for the interview in late feb 2013. The visa interview did not ask me much but told me to wait. She did not issue me any slip of any color. She retained my passport and all the petition related documents and advised me to wait.

        After exactly 1 month I received an SMS on my cellphone informing me about the collection of passport from New Delhi Consulate. At that time I did not know whether my visa has been approved or not. From the consulate I got an envelope in which my un-stamped passport was there, I-797 first page and a 221(G) refusal letter(the typical 221G letter with the usual information).

        After 15 days of receiving the letter my EAC reciept status changed in USCIS which now says that they are rechecking my case. The same status has been there on USCIS for more than 7 months now. They have not communicated anything to me or my attorney or employer. 🙁

        To be honest I dont I think I ll ever get my visa stamped. whatever be the reason. I have already lost 13 months of visa duration. Even if the visa is stamped after reprocessing it will take a further 8-10 months. By that time 70% of my H1b tenure would be over. The visa will be as good as useless for me.

        Regards,
        MN

        Reply
        • This is the first case I have heard that H1B is rejected. I never listen any case before did you know any other case? It’s really very bad indeed. You case looks something different from others. Usually, peoples are getting email to collect or submit documents. I cannot predict anything why they sent your petition to USCIS for reconsideration. Pls do not lose your hope there is still a chance to get approved if your docs are genuine.
          I am also waiting to hear from New Delhi. They issued me white slip & did not ask any other additional docs. My case was updated in Aug 3 times but after that there is no update. I am working for India’s one of the top IT company & Done Master’s in computer application. So, Could you pls help me what may t he problem in my case ?? Your help will be really very appreciated!!! You can reach me at rafat dot sayeed at gmail

          Thanks!

          Reply
          • Hi Rafat,

            From the looks of your case it seems that it is just a matter of time. Keep in touch with your attorney/employer.

            Do take advice from experts on this forum.

            Regards,
            MN.

          • If someone have ever visited I$rel, then you they are not allowed to enter any Arab countries. Same way, Uncle Sam is also taking measures. When you people don’t call that as discrimination, why to call only Uncle Sam with words ? First look how your countries treat others, before you can point towards other countries.

  16. Dear friends
    I was in Yerevan from 16 September to 27 September.
    America’s embassy in Yerevan send to me the following email:

    ***You can submit your passports to the embassy. If before 30 SEP 2013 your administrative processing is done we will issue your visas otherwise we will give your passports back. ***

    We were delivered our passports to the embassy on 20 September. But told us that the visa quota is for Iranian on 26 September. my administrative processing take along 180 days.
    Unfortunately my family specially my children , are very depressed of living and keep asking me, do we humans are terrorists or evil and etc.?
    Why they told us that Bring your passports, if visas had finished?
    Why it take along the my administrative processing?
    Sincerely,

    Reply
  17. Is there anyone whoes case recently got update 2-3 times but didn’t get visa & still is in pending status.
    OR
    Someopne who got get their visa recently after clearing the Admin processing ?

    Reply
    • Hi Khan,

      Yes mine got updated continuosly 3times in 3weeks time and after that no updates till today. It had been 18days since last update. My visa is h1b at hyd on aug 27. No docs asked, ppt returned back, issued 221g with admin process box ticked. No case number also. Chking with app id. Pls update whether mine is positive sign or negative sign. Nothing asked from my side so far. No email also from embassy..pls advice

      Reply
  18. Already five month has gone My status(Immigrant visa) still Administrative processing.My parents got Green card and Social security numbers few days ago–is it possible to get my visa faster after all of this activities ………….??

    Reply
  19. Hello Admin, and all

    I came to Ottawa for a first time H1b Stamping and was issued a 221(g). Here is my background briefly: Came to US in 2004 on F1 for masters. After graduating masters, I joined PhD in science in 2006 and graduated with doctoral degree in 2009. Worked as Post-doctoral researcher from 2009 till june 2012.

    Wanted to change career to sw and, but the cap-h1’s were exhausted by the time I got a job. So went onto H4 from July 2012, found a job on time and got an h1b approved in April 2013, for a start date of 1st oct 2013.

    Due to a religious thing, i must travel to india in Novemeber, So i thought of h1b stamping saga out of my way before the start date of the job, so ended up in Ottawa.

    Officer did not ask for any documents, just asked about my background in science and how I would qualify for the software job. I explained to him, mine is a theoretical and we did use a bunch of sw languages. He then stares at the screen, and issued a Blue 221g. He has taken my I797 and nothing else.

    My questions are:
    1. On what basis he might have issued me 221g and what is the average time to resolve this.
    2. I am planning to wait for a max of one month, and go for H4(as my wife is pregnant and being with her is more important to me than the job), in which case should I formally withdraw my application, or can I just schedule an appointment for H4 and appear for visa?
    3. Should I be mentioning anything about the 221g in the DS 160 form for H4.
    4. Since the 221g blue clearly says, “this is NOT a refusal”, I am assuming when asked if my visa wasss ever denied, I should answer NO?

    Anyone with similar experience….Please share. Thank you in advannce

    Reply
  20. Is it possible us congressman/parliament members has any rights to claim for Bureau of Consular Affairs, U.S. Department of State to give visa as soon as possible to his or her request able person.

    Reply
    • Yea , It will help you to get visa soon and I wasn’t sure in all cases. But I got my visa after 6 months by contacting senator through my school

      Reply
  21. Hello, Thanks for such information. My case is IR1/CR1 and its under AP since october 2012. Embassy did ask me to submit a new passport back in may 2013, but after that nothing changed. My wife is a US citizen. My question is – Is it a good idea to take the USCIS to court by writ of mandamus or should I take my wife to an embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan (as a citizen) to question them.

    Reply
    • Dear Zeeshan

      I am corresponding from Chicago. Writ of Mandamus basically means suing the federal government on a specific ground. This could be a security clearance issue whereby the beneficiary of any immigration benefit is somehow not receiving the successful adjudication on the case. Furthermore, most cases require the petitioner/Applicant on a case to wait for 4 months prior to bringing the action against the court. In a nutshell, you are asking a federal judge to consider the decision on a pending matter, when the government counsel does not render any decision.

      Reply
      • Sohail- Thanks for a reply. I am sorry but I am still not very clear, If you can please explain a bit more. What would be the best approach to tackle the Administrative processing, yes its a matter of security a name check is required, but that only takes couple of weeks to 6 months but in my case one year has passed.

        Reply
  22. Hi saurab

    I am in an ongoing project in US and came for chennai for visa stamping. I am employed to a IT consulting firm and work at a client location. The questions i was asked what does your employer do and what do you do at client. I am given a 221g with administrative processing required, they returned back my passport and held my i129 , amended lca, i797 a and client letter. I am little bit worried about the wait time . Looks like VO is annoyed with EVC model , not sure if they will issue stamping to me. Can you please comment if this normal to get “adminstrative processing required” at the consulate itself.

    Reply
    • Hi,
      I have been there in same situation. By no means, its a rejection, only negative about this is the time for processing. Same happened to me and it took almost 7months for Reaffirmation. In the end, I got the H1b Stamping.
      So your best bid is to visit CEAC website very frequently to check the updates on your case.
      Thanks

      Reply
  23. Dear Saurabh,

    I appeared for Visa interview at Mumbai consulate on 30 th Aug and got 221(g) asking following doc –

    Scan and submit the following as a PDF document:
    • Invitation: An invitation letter from the sponsoring organization in the US. For graduate students, workers, and exchange visitors, this letter should include the name of your supervisor or advisor and details about your work.
    Submit all of the following information as a word document:
    • Resume: A detailed resume/CV that lists your professional and /or academic background, three professional references and a list of publications.
    • Research: A complete and detailed description of 1) any research you intent to conduct in US; and 2) all the past and/ or current research you have conducted in all the countries. You must include a description of the practical applications of your research or study.
    • Position: Your current job title and full description of work.
    • Purpose: A detailed statement of the purpose of your visit to the US.
    • Itinerary: An itinerary of all locations you visiting US , including dates, contact names, organizations, addresses, and telephone numbers.
    • Funding: Name of the person or organization that is funding your trip and your research.
    • Travelers: A list of all the person or organization who will accompany you, including family members and colleagues.
    • Travel: Dates and location of all your international travel for the last ten years, except US travel.

    I want to know that should I add other supporting documents also like for funding I need to attach my I-20 and other docs.
    regards,
    Abhishek

    Reply
    • Hi Saurabh,

      I am in the same situation. Applied for student visa renewal and got the same slip as you. I applied at the mumbai embassy on 24th dec 2013. They returned my passport and asked to submit all the documents you mentioned above as a PDF or word. I have just submitted them.
      Do you know what it means if they return your passport? Did they keep your passport? How long did it take for the adminsitrative processing? Did you get your visa stamped finally?
      Any information on this situation with 221(g) would be great. Thanks.

      Paolomi

      Reply
      • Paolomi,
        Usually they return the passport when they *think* it may take sometime for the processing and are not sure about the result. So they return the passport instead of holding on to it. It doesn’t mean that the outcome will be negative.

        There is no set processing time. You just need to be patient.

        Reply
  24. Hello,
    My visa was issued on Aug 30, 2013 after 221g administrative processing. As my school’s report date was Aug 26, I am forced to defer my admission. I have requested the school to issue a new i20 with same SEVIS number as on my fall 2013 I20. My Visa was issued after the reporting date i.e. Aug 26 and the consulate didn’t ask for new I20, so I am taking it as a sign that I can use this Visa for entry into the US for Spring session. Should I reapply for F1? Thanks !

    Reply
    • Hello Sachin.

      I0m haveing the same problem . My F1 visa is under admin process , and I don’t think it’s going to make it on time.

      What did you do? Dis you enter with that visa or did you reapplied?

      Thank you.

      Reply
  25. Hi Saurabh,

    I appeared for my H1B visa interview along with my wife at the Mumbai US consulate on 22/08/2013. The VO issued me a 221g white slip asking me to submit more documents at the dropbox centre. I want to know the following:

    a. Significance of “white” 221g slip?
    b. Along with the documents asked for, do I need to submit our passports as well? (Actually, I don’t exactly remember what the VO instructed me to do about the passport. Also, it is not clear from the 221g white slip whether to submit the passport or not)?

    Regards

    Reply
  26. Hello all,

    I had F1 interview on Jun 27 at New Delhi consulate. As my area lies in TAL they gave me a 221g white slip. The case number on the slip was: 2013xxx-xxx-1. I sent all the required documents to advanceprocessing at state dot gov on the interview day.
    In the subject line I wrote the case number in the same format i.e. 2013xxx-xxx-1, but when I checked my case’s status on CEAC website I came to know that the correct format is 2013xxx xxx 0001. I emailed support-india at ustraveldocs dot com and they said that ‘ideally’ it should not be an issue and consulate will be able to locate your case. Now, I am wondering what ideally means here? Resending the docs is an option which I don’t want to use now, also I thought that this might confuse consulate as to which email to process. Please reply ASAP. Thank you.

    Reply
    • Sachin Arora,
      I know a case where wrong case# was put in the email subject and yet it got processed in 3 weeks (it was also TAL case in Delhi). So it may work out for you as well.

      If you want to resend it w/ correct case number, then why not add that information in the email (about resending the docs) and also attach a word document w/ this information (I don’t know if they download all docs in to a folder by your case number, and if so then it will be helpful to have the explanation there). That’s my opinion.

      Reply
  27. Hiii Saurabh
    ya they have inform me abt RFE.Basically USCIS department asking for companies documents like tax related documents and companies relation with employes and other doc. related ton company.USCIS department said to submit the docs. asap and said to reply within 14 days , is it possible?And also My EAC no. in 2012 was different and now in 2013 my RFE no. is different , is it possible to have diff. EAC and RFE no.s?
    REply me ASAP.
    thank you

    kaushal shah

    Reply
    • kaushal shah,
      14 days? They usually give 2-3 months to reply. I don’t remember rest of the history for your case. Can you post it so that I can answer rest of the questions.

      Reply
      • Dear Mr.Saurabh
        let me start from the beginning. My petition filed in 2012 n employer has given me receipt indicating my name on it. Then i got approval in August6,2012. In Jan 2013 i have submitted my DS-160 N Fees in Mumbai consulate. In same month one of my colleague got 221g in Mumbai consulate so, my consulate hold me to appear for the interview. Now after 8 months still 221g is not clear at Mumbai. Moreover, my employer said that i have got RFE reg. Compnies document(Like Taxation,offer etc.) n they provide me letter rece. from Immigration dept. which indicate different EAC no.(Start with EAC131xxxxx) compare to previous receipt no. I have checked both receipt no. previous on showing Approved n New one showing RFE. Now What should i do ? i have been waiting since last 2 years and now this RFE comes. Pl. help me out sir.
        Awaiting your reply sir ASAP.
        Thanks
        Kaushal shah

        Reply
      • Dear Mr.Saurabh

        Let me start from the beginning. My petition filed in 2012 n employer has given me receipt indicating my name on it. Then i got approval in August6,2012. In Jan 2013 i have submitted my DS-160 N Fees in Mumbai consulate. In same month one of my colleague got 221g in Mumbai consulate so, my consulate hold me to appear for the interview. Now after 8 months still 221g is not clear at Mumbai. Moreover, my employer said that i have got RFE reg. Compnies document(Like Taxation,offer etc.) n they provide me letter rece. from Immigration dept. which indicate different EAC no.(Start with EAC131xxxxx) compare to previous receipt no. I have checked both receipt no. previous on showing Approved n New one showing RFE. Now What should i do ? i have been waiting since last 2 years and now this RFE comes. Pl. help me out sir.
        Awaiting your reply .
        Thanks
        Kaushal shah

        Reply
      • Dear Mr.Saurabh
        let me start from the beginning. My petition filed in 2012 n employer has given me receipt indicating my name on it. Then i got approval in August6,2012. In Jan 2013 i have submitted my DS-160 N Fees in Mumbai consulate. In same month one of my colleague got 221g in Mumbai consulate so, my consulate hold me to appear for the interview. Now after 8 months still 221g is not clear at Mumbai. Moreover, my employer said that i have got RFE reg. Compnies document(Like Taxation,offer etc.) n they provide me letter rece. from Immigration dept. which indicate different EAC no.(Start with EAC131xxxxx) compare to previous receipt no. I have checked both receipt no. previous on showing Approved n New one showing RFE. Now What should i do ? i have been waiting since last 2 years and now this RFE comes. Pl. help me out sir.
        Awaiting your reply ASAP.
        Thanks
        Kaushal shah

        Reply
      • Hi Saurabh sir

        Pls advise here. I attended h1b VI on aug 27 2013 in hyd for H1B. mine is transfer from A to B. I got petition papers from Cmpny A of US IN 2012. company B in india is a big MNC. I was working for B from past 3.6 years. I got selected for A over telephonic interview with help of monstor.com and they processed my h1b. When I got approved papers from A iam in other country went to serve company B client. Then I thought to transfer my h1b from A to B and B accepted and started processing. B petition is also approved by USCIS.

        Now I went to interview on behalf of B. My interview was cool for 5mins and after that VO told that A revoked my petition and he dont have job at all to offer you. I told him I had a valid petition papers of A and A s offer letter also. I can show u o said. He told me that iam ineligible to enter US. Then iam blur. After 1min he only told me I will apply a waiver for you. I thought he is kind of helping me and said yes. He returned me back alll and issued 221g white form with admin processing ticked. Can you pls put ur thoughts on what would had happened. Between aug 28 and sep 13 there are 3 updates and after that till today no updates and still in AP.

        NOTE : I didnt go for visa interview for company A. I just transferred approved petition papers of A to B. And went for B company VI. I had A s petition papers and A s offer letter also. VO didnt ask me any.

        Pls share ur thoughts on whether they will reject or issue me a VISA

        Reply
  28. hello all
    My husband filed a petition for my son from US but he is his step father from my second marriage. My son is 15 years old and had an interviewed on 11 of june and after his interview VO hand over 221g white paper. well we did submitted all the documents that has been asked and since than they put his case under AP but in between they called my kids and to my x and asked them some questions and again case showed under AP . After another 15 days the embassy people showed up in my residence and they nocked on some of my neighbor’s doors and asked them about my second marriage which my neighbors obviously doesn’t know because I lived in US with my husband. Now the point is embassy believed it or not but my son has no place to live and I am having his custody and I am really struggling to bring him here as soon as possible it has been almost 35 days of AP .Do I have any other option to explain the embassy how important it is for us to be together. pls help someone and give me a right guidance .
    Thanks a lot
    M Moon

    Reply
  29. Hi
    I am finding my situation increasingly desperate.
    I had my interview with US embasyy in Berlin in 19th June for renewing my F1 Visa. I am Iranian who already spending 2 years for studying my master degree in US. I emailed the US embassy twice on 11 and 25 July asking them just a simple question as to whether I need to be present in Berlin to pick up my visa or not. However, I still haven’t heard back from them. This is really frustrating as there is no US embassy in Iran, and I would need to apply for a second visa just to go to Europe to pick up my visa.
    Also there is no update on my status from 19th June which was my interview time. what does this means? Is that means that they have forgotten to even review my case?

    I am so stressed since my classed for my phd is going to start 26th Aug.

    Reply
      • Hi Saurabh,
        I really appreciate your respond,
        I have never contacted over phone since I was scared to sound so pushy.
        My status haven’t been changed from 19th June …. so when I log in this is what I got :
        Administrative Processing , creation Date: 19-Jun-2013 , Updated Date: 19- Jun- 2013….
        US embassy in Berlin dont even answer my emails , and I am increasingly anxious . I have a prestigious full scholarship from USC for my PhD and my classes is going to start from 26th Aug…. This is really a nightmare since I have to pick up my visa from Germany and plan everything beforehand accordingly.
        I would be grateful if you have any suggestions?

        Reply
          • Hi Saurabh ,
            Thanks for your answer,
            However, my question is that Isn’t it so strange that my status has not been updated from 19th on the CAEC website ?!?!!!
            I deeply appreciate your thoughts on this matter.
            Best

  30. Hi saurabh i just want to ask a question. In augest i went to my interview for spouse visa and in the end of my interview the consul officer write on my application file (ISSUED) and then give me a piece of papper that have an addresse of a designater courier (UPS) and telo me that i have to pick up m’y passeport,Visa,and other document in 10 days. But today when i Check m’y case on ceac.gov it shows that administrativ processing?? Is that they are processing my Visa or what..thanks

    Reply
    • Samir,
      As per the status, it looks like that. They may be doing some work which requires no input from your side (like checking w/ PIMS about the petition etc). Keep following the status to see what happens. There is no set processing time.

      Reply
    • Saurabh thnx for the reply but i have an update in augest 5 my status case changed to (ISSUED) Visa has been printed. But i still didn’t receive my passport yet..is the website ceac.gov shows the right status??

      Reply
  31. Hi, I went for my second H1b visa interview along with my wife for H4 to the Chennai consulate on July 9th. The Consular officer told us that my visa is approved and provided me a copy f my CV. When i went to pick up my passport, i got the 221g blue color notice. i was shocked as i thought my visa was approved. Consulate hasnt asked for any additional docs in the 221g and have my passport. i haven’t provided them any additional info. can you please advise on whether this has happened to other applicants? can this case be an error by the consular officer? 221g form states that they need more admin processing time.

    Rajiv

    Reply
    • Rajiv,
      This happens. They may need some administrative processing on your case. Nothing you can do here, except to wait.

      Reply
  32. HI All,
    This is a Great Forum Doing Great.
    I want some info about the H1B stamping.
    My case recently approved, applied from a small Employer with 70+ people I guess.
    Recently I Joined (3 months back) in Level-5 company (Top rated Organization) in India HYD, In This August planning to go for stamping.
    1) Can is hide my this 3 months Exp of this Level-5 company?(Because of As per previous posts in this forum VO’s are asking y? you are changing from Big-Org to Small-Org).It doesn’t mean that they will ask the same question to me also, ..But May be right?
    2) If yes we can hide!!( Then what may be the best answer to say “what you are doing in this 3 months period”)
    3) I have near to 4 years Exp from 3 companies with all Documents (Offer, Paystubs, Form_16, Bank statements, Reliving) Was that not sufficient? If I hide my 3 months Exp from Current Big Origination.

    O My God …Came to know that so many sad stories about the stamping from this Forum
    I wish them all the best for their approvals
    Please help me on this. Waiting for your precious reply

    Reply
  33. Hello,
    I have attended to visa on May 22nd and issued me 221g pink slip.
    The thing i want to express is many of the people who got 221g used to fill up some questioner. But from the embassy i did not got any message to attach the documents or to fill up any questioner. Can u pls help me out Whether it may happen such situation or not.????

    Reply
    • Deepak,
      They ask those details from lot of people but not everyone. If they didn’t ask anything from you, then also it is fine.

      Reply
  34. Hi Saurabh

    I attended H1B interview in Chennai consulate on last November and got all my documents and passport back with 221g white slip asking for a bunch of supporting documents pertaining to my employer. I submitted all of them on January (without passport) and today I got a mail from consulate:

    Dear
    Your document(s) have been collected from the US Embassy/Consulate
    The passport number being returned is XXXXXXXX
    You have chosen to have your documents delivered to the following location:
    Bengaluru, Prestige Atrium 2nd Floor Unit No. 304, Bangalore, 560001

    In fact passport is with me and the above letter is confusing. Is this positive indication of my case?

    Reply
    • Hi Sumash,

      That might be a mail confirming that they have sent back the documents that you have submitted to Embassy during course of your interveiw and after interview. The scenario is that your application is still under AP and they are giving back you all the documents that you have submitted which they no longer need or Verification has been done.

      Sumash is this your first H1B

      Reply
      • @Sagar, Their email it self only confusing, if you know something tell or else don’t confuse any one, as like USCis email what is the full from of AP?

        Reply
        • Hi Ramana,

          AP is Admistrative Processing, and Ramana I dont understand on what you want anyone to tell about. I dont think that there is anyone who know about what goes with your application when its with USCIS.

          Reply
  35. Hi,
    I applied for F1 Visa . I have been issued white slips and told that no documents are required. They need to do administrative processing and my passport is taken. My course is starting in 3 weeks. Could you please guide what can be done and how long will it take.

    Reply
      • Hi,

        I have received a mail from support@ustraveldocs.com to submit a court order about arrest in US, if any. I have never been to US, so how could I have been arrested. After the interview the consulate told that they don’t require any documents and when I check my status at CEAC there is no update in the status. Status update date is still 24th July, date of my interview

        Reply
  36. Hi Saurabh,
    I have seen some movement to my Visa application. I noticed that the ‘Status Updated Date’ is changed to ’22-Jul-2013’ today. Although the status is still showing the same ‘Administrative Processing’. Does that mean something?

    Please suggest.
    Thanks,
    Rizwan

    Reply
    • Rizwan,
      There are others who have reported that their date changes but there is no other visible change. It is not possible to say what happens in the background. They may have made some meaningful progress in your case or there might be a nightly batch process updating the dates. Its still kind of black-box.

      Reply
      • Hi,

        The ‘Status Updated Date’ is changed again to ’29-Jul-2013’ today.
        Although the status is still showing the same ‘Administrative Processing’.
        This is a second update in a week.
        Is anyone experienced the same and is there any updates happened.

        Please share.

        Thanks,
        Riz

        Reply
      • The ‘Status update date’ changed again to day to 29 July, 2013.
        Not sure what is happening.
        Is there anyone else experienced the same, please share.

        Reply
        • Hi Rizwan,

          I have seen people where the status data has been changed 4-5 times in a span of month and they are still waiting on a response from US Consulate. It is definetly not a batch process as no batch process would happen 4 times or two times with in a month, saying that no one is sure on why the date changes. But good thing is they are working on your application for sure.

          Reply
          • Hi,
            I’m in the same situation, the status update changed 4 times already this month 7/15, 7/22, 7/29 and 7/30 but still on “Administrative Processing” can you tell me if I will get my K1 visa soon??? I was interviewed in Manila, Philippines. They did not say if we were approved or denied and we did NOT get any refusal form 221g, they took my passport and all docs, and he just said that they would call us in 2- 1/2 weeks and if we don’t hear from them he said to give them a call. To date we have not yet heard from them. Please enlighten us!!

        • Rizwan

          Any further update on your case. Was it for H1 & for which cosulate. When did you appear for interview. I apeard in Delhi on 26th April & my case was updated once on 28th July. I see there are 5 other cases of 26th April update as 28th July. I dont know what’s this .. Is it come periodical update OR some one really updated our cases

          Reply
          • Hi Rizwan,
            Congratulations man. Tell me, all this while (6 months) was your travel date still on or expired. I am trying to establish whether a B-1 can still be issued after one’s purpose of travel has expired due to admin process. Did you submit a new itinerary or they simply just gave you the visa based on your 1st applicaion

  37. Hello Saurabh,

    You have been answering everyone’s questions so patiently.
    I attended Hyderabad consulate on 8th july and got a 221g white form for F1 visa. I am already living in US on F1 visa for my MS. I came back to India for family emergency. My visa expired in June. I went for my F1 visa for Ph.d in biology. My classes will start soon, I already made travel arrangements. I am struck here as they are not updating my status. I replied to the email, with required docs attached. However my passport or anything were not taken by the VO. I still have them. Am I supposed to drop those at the VFS? I am struck please help me.

    Reply
    • Lucky,
      If they didn’t ask for the passport in the list of documents, then you should not submit it now. They will review the submitted documents, and then ask for passport when they are ready to issue the visa.

      What documents did they ask for submission?

      Reply
      • Saurabh,

        Following is there email.

        Please complete the below questionnaire and e-mail it to HydADMIN@state.gov. You MUST also attach the following:

        A complete CV/resume and a complete list of publications and professional/research references. CV/resume should be submitted in text (*.txt) format. If you are retired, you MUST still include a CV/resume listing your past work and any part-time work since retirement.

        A scanned copy of the invitation letter from the organization/university that you will meet or attend. The letter should be saved and sent as an Adobe Acrobat (*.pdf) file.

        You may scan and attach supplementary material if needed, such as invitation letters, transcripts and research papers. Supplementary materials should be saved and sent as Adobe Acrobat (*.pdf) files.

        Failure to follow these instructions will substantially delay and may prevent the administrative processing of your application.

        You must include your passport number and Case Number in the subject line of all e-mails.

        Thanks,
        Lucky

        Reply
        • Lucky,
          Yes, they have not asked for passport, so hold-on to it for now. Looks like background check to me. What is your major field of study? At times that triggers this check.

          Reply
          • Lucky,
            That is something which can trigger TAL (technology alert list). They are usually resolved in 3-8 weeks.

          • Yea it’s been 3 weeks and no update. My classes start on Aug 20th. I talked to university and they mentioned that I cannot defer the semster but I have to wait for next year fall 2014 to begin classes. I will be struck in India for about a year.

  38. H1B- stamp

    Saurabh,
    I got a new H1B stamp in June but it doesnt have employer name on it. Is this a new system. Not sure if I can transfer my H1B and still use the same stamp to enter..

    Reply
    • Sam,
      I don’t know about it. You can post on other blog posts to see if others are also seeing same thing, or is it just you.

      Reply
      • Hello Saurabh,

        My interview for F1 student visa was on the 1st of july 2013, it went quite well the VO asked me academic related questions and after 5-7 mins of interview she took out a 221g white slip, n told me that my visa looks ok for now but I might have to submit a few more documents asked by the consulate eventually when they email me to do, so that they can issue me the visa. She said I will receive an email shortly but its been already 2 1/2 weeks I have not received any email from them, now my concern is that why havent I got the email till now? And its written on the white slip that if I do not hear from them in 5 business days than I should email them on the provided hyd consulate email, which I did n I got an automated reply saying that the Admin process is mandatory and cant be expedited. Ever since than I am checking my visa status evry day the last update was on 5th of july after that their is no recent update. What do I do now? Should I wait for more time or should I call them? Please suggest me the necessary actions.
        Thanks & Regards.

        Reply
        • Mohammed,
          From your name it looks like it may have gone into name check or background check. There is no set processing time. Most of them are resolved in 3-8 weeks, but there are folks who have been waiting for resolution for months now.

          Reply
          • Well thank you so much for your comment here. What really bothers me is that why have I not got any email from them while it was told by the VO that I would receive it shortly. Because in most cases like mine , applicants got the email on the same day or next day. Is it normal do they even delay in emailing? Please suggest me what do I do now? Should I like try calling them or wait? What if they dont have the right email address, I mean if the email provided by me in the DS was not correct. Will they choose other means to contact me? Thank you again.

  39. Fellas,

    Here is my 20 month long ordeal with the US Embassy in New Delhi.

    EVC model with I-140 approved (on 7th year with a 3 year approval)
    1. Oct 25th 2011 – Arrived at New Delhi
    2. Nov 1st 2011- Interview – VO asked who I reported to and since I knew they were grilling people on “employer employee” relationship (such a joke btw but thats a different thread altogether). So I said I report to my employer (desi staffing firm with around 200 employees -i know what you’re thinking but I was an idiot to take my chance!!) who is not at the client site but we talk over the phone and coordinate through emails. He returned all documents back to me along with my passport and said will let me know if they require anything from me. In 10 days I received the 221G very standard denial notice (it was new to me at that time as I ‘ve had 3 stamps prior to this and one was on evc model in 2005). So this letter was a shock of my life as I was supposed to fly back in 3 weeks and was in a very similar situation as a lot of you out here with my car and apartment and what not still back in the US. So I gave my client this bad news and he agreed on letting me work remotely for some time.

    In 2 months Jan 2012 my GC priority date became current and this was like the last nail in the coffin. All this while I had been waiting for this moment and I felt like a moron who decided to visit during my perm process. I lost my golden opportunity to file for adjustment of status and it seems the dates were retrograded all the way back to 2004 after a month or so (just bounced back to Jan 2008 I believe). This was like the lowest point in my life.

    So I decided to go for a more direct employment and approached the prime vendor who readily agreed to sponsor me.
    2nd interview – Feb 22 – new H1 – same client – different employer (prime vendor)
    VO asked me if the only difference in this model was the employer and I said yes. my client and the new employer were luckily in the same city but this moron started researching google maps to see if my employer could actually make to the client site. He gave me quite a few frowned looks and finally said he wont be able to provide an approval and would like to review (pretty normal case of denial). I knew I had to wait for yet another 221G and to my expectations, in 2 weeks I got the denial notice.

    In the mean time, the first petition that was sent back to USCIS got reaffirmed and I went for another interview at the same consulate. This time too I was grilled for like 15 mins and the VO was just not ready to believe anything I had to say. She did keep my passport so I was a bit hopeful but all I got was another denial notice and to my surprise I got a printout of my conversation with the VO where they had changed(deliberately!!) all my answers.

    So after 3 rejections I had given up on the EVC model. The only good thing was that I was still working remotely and my client was being supportive (guess i got the right client at the right time to help me keep going). But time always changes and projects come to an end, so I got an intimation from the client that my project was going to end in 2 months.

    I then decided to look for a full time employment but even that was not easy as most of them didnt want to sponsor H1 (due to I-140 approved) or they couldnt get me to appear for an in person interview. I then thought of going to Canada just in case I could get a firm to interview me at their Canadian location. So I flew to Canada in Dec 2012, my project ended in Jan 2013. in 3 months I found a firm who was ready to sponsor me and had an opening at their US Location. I came back to India, got the new H1, appeared at the same consulate (N Delhi) and got an instant approval. Finally flew back to the US in June 2013.

    All this while, my lesson learnt and advice to everyone struggling – Never give up. During times like this you get to know who your true friends are. I found mine and learnt to maintain a good distance from the ones who just want to be friends in good times. I am just so happy and content now (I have a MS and have been here for a good 10 yrs now – just wasnt smart enough to start my perm sooner), that the fact that I lost my chance to adjust my status doesnt bother me. Use the time you have to explore other opportunities – like certification, new language (I know one is not in that mental state but believe me its worth keeping busy instead of going into depression). I had an opportunity to invest in real estate back in delhi and it has turned out to be a blessing in disguise. This feels like a Miracle and at times its hard to believe I was struggling with this for so long. I lost time and money in this process but as they say “All’s well that ends well” !!

    Good luck to everyone, if you have any questions do email me at rfed1212 at yahoo.

    Reply
  40. If a person receives a 221g pink slip once does it mean that he/she will keep receiveing this for every visa interview he/she attends?
    I received a 221g when I had gone for my F1 visa stamping. I now will be going back to India for my H1B stamping and wanted to know about this. I know 221g is something that can be given anytime and for any reason but just wanted to know the general view on this.

    Thank you!

    Reply
  41. Dear Saurabh

    Hy, how r u sir? rightnw i am confused. Pl.Help me out. One of my colleague got the 221g @Mumbai consulate while processing H1b.Consulate asked him to submit some Company related docs, that he has done. Now still his case is not clear. Mine and him employer are same.
    Question is that Can i appear at Mumbai consulate for H1b Stamping or not whereas his case is pending? Can i appear for the Interview or not? If yes , is it going to effect on my case as well?
    Pl. Help me out quickly sir, Awaiting your valuable reply.
    Thanks
    Kaushal Shah

    Reply
    • Kaushal,
      You can appear for stamping in Mumbai. However, there is no way to say w/ certainty whether you will run into similar issues or not. Its better to assume the best but be prepared for the worst.

      Reply
  42. Does the format of case no makes a difference while sending email with documents to consulate? I have sent my document with subject line as 2013xxx-xxx-1 which I later found to be indicated on ceac site as 2013xxx xxx 0001. Extra zero at the end and hyphen in between.

    Reply
    • Hi Raghu,

      Dont worry about that, the consulate people would easily add those Zeros even if you miss it while you are sending back any to them. In fact there are many who recieved Case status with out zeros added in….

      Reply
  43. Many of you may be aware that US Consulate Mumbai is on FB and there under Visa section Consulate Officer replies to your queries. Recently I came to know about that and notice that in many cases Consular officer has replied promptly and helped the visa applicants — so thought of sharing that site with you.
    http://www.forumforpages.com/facebook/u-s-consulate-general-mumbai/191483281412/0

    Reply
  44. Dear madam/sir
    My interview process was conducted in Yerevan on April 2013.
    MY case number is not in https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx.
    When I enter my case number, this message is issued: Your search did not return any data.
    Please guide me.
    Thank you and have a nice time.
    Sincerely,
    BABAK

    Reply
        • Hi Sagar,

          From where can we get this type of case number.
          I have my application ID but dont have any case number.

          Please provide details.

          Thanks

          Reply
          • Hi SB,

            we will get case status number from the officer who issues these slips… even if we dont have a case status no, aplication id should be good to look for tracking your status.

  45. Hi Saurabh,

    I took my interview on 15th November 2012 and there were no updates on my case till yesterday. while looking on CEAC website I see the Case Status Updated date Was moved from 15th Nov to 21 June 2013. what does the Status Updated date means Saurabh, is that a good sign.

    Is anyone in similar situation, or anyone has any more information on Status Updated Date. Please share your taughts on this

    Thanks
    Sagar

    Reply
    • Hi Sagar

      I am also in a same situation like you!

      I attended H1B interview on 23rd November 2012 in Chennai consulate and ended up with white slip and provided all the supporting documents on 19 February 2013 . I am keep checking my case status on CEAC site and no change as of today. But my case status date updated 3 times 8th May, 11th May and 28th May without status change. Status is still admin processing. I am also not sure what updates are happening in my case and this status date update gives me a hope that at least they are working on my file and result would come soon. I read in some discussion thread that the status date update change can be due to some routine batch job running against set of cases. not sure about it and all guess. Will post you if there is any update on my case.

      Reply
      • Hi Sumash,

        Thanks for your insights and info Sumash, did you happen to get any more updates on your case. I just recieved one update on my case till now. Not sure what that means

        Reply
      • Sagar,
        It can be either – they have made some real progress, or it is just a system update. The whole 221g processing is still a black box and one cannot conclude conclusively where the petition is at any given moment.

        Reply
    • Sagar -whether you were given 221 g slip after the interview?
      If Yes then
      You have to click the pdf file there Case Status Report.pdf Open the file and see if your CEAC bar code is mentioned. If you see your CEAC bar code that means your case is cleared / and or 221 g administrative processing is done
      Clear instructions are given on that page.

      Reply
      • Parshu,

        I guess report only includes details of the applicants who were provided with Pink Slip. I did tried looking on the report initially, but later came to know that report only includes details of Pink Slip holders.

        Reply
      • Different consulates have different ways of informing the processed cases. Not every consulate has a pdf and not all cases in that consulate appear in that consulate.

        Reply
    • Sorry Sagar
      I thought you were checking the following site
      http://mumbai.usconsulate.gov/case-status.html
      I later realized you are talking about this site
      https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx?eQs=WwjqOlbeRYzCYubaSQI+RA==

      Sourabh is the best person to advise you

      once again sorry

      Reply
  46. Hii,
    Saurabh sir,
    Myself sabir Ali Khan.I faced my Intervew on21.03.2013,at Kolkata for seaman visa (c1/d).consulate officer took my passport & gave me a 221g white slip & told me that it is under admin.prosessing & also said that 15-60 days it will be clear & u will get ur visa.I cheack my status everyday,bt it stil showing pending,now pending no. Is 269.now i want to withdraw my passport for ship joining.how can I withdraw my passport?pls.kindly suggest me.
    Rgrds:
    Sabir.

    Reply
    • hAI ME ALSO FACING THE SAME PROBLEM ME ALSO A SEAFARER IF U HAVE ANY PROGRESS INFORM ME MY MAIL ID IS ginowilson10 at gmail.com

      Reply
    • Sabir,
      You can write to the consulate and ask for your passport back. You can submit the reason as visit to another country.

      BTW, please don’t call me ‘Sir’. I don’t like such salutations 🙂

      Reply
  47. Honorable madam/sir,
    Unfortunately, because my email system is down and I was not access to internet, I was not received no any response for emails.
    I apologize and sorry to send this email.
    I write this email to follow up current status of my DV lottery 2013 case. My interview date was 04/03/2013.
    During my interview, the honorable and dear officer has told me that my documents are complete and just need to wait 6 weeks for further processing.
    But after 6 weeks my case is not cleared yet. Would you please review and let me know what is the current status of my case?
    should i provide you with further information in order to facilitate my processing?
    Do you think there is a problem in the process of reviewing my case?
    your kind consideration for above mentioned request is highly appreciated.
    with best regards, thank you and have a nice time.

    Reply
  48. 08:52
    Far Tomb
    Dear Sir / Madam,
    We are a applicant for family immigrant visa of USA. We already face interview at 11/12/12 and we got one visa at 12/12/12 and other four members are get the green form which is under the section of 221g and they put our passport and other document. At that time we inform that the other four visa is going to administrative processing and it can take several weeks but now we are still waiting for those visa.
    Now the question is that Did a sponsor who is main petitioner can cancelled sponsorship when his or her relative visa is administrative processing under the section 221g ? And can main petitioner cancelled his or her relative green card ?
    Thanks.

    Reply
  49. hai

    i myself gin0, i applied for the us visa c1/d (seaman) category on April 2013 they make my case as administrative pending process and given a pink slip and tell me to check the status online .but for the last two months there is no response from them showing that still pending and they having my passport also received at the time of interview .now the problem is that i want my passport back what is the procedure i have to follow ? and what time it will take to return the passport ? is it possible to continue the process when i withdraw the passport.pls advice me the best possible option .

    Reply
    • Hey Gino,

      You can mail them and ask your passport back. You should state the reason why you want your passport back in the mail. Don’t worry you will get it back soon.

      Thank you

      Regards,
      Arun

      Reply
      • Hi, I applied for an F1 visa at Hyd on 7th June, the VO said “your visa lookos okay for today, you’ll receive an e-mail in a few hours, please reply to it, TY” I left the place and replied to the e-mail after two days, it just had a few general questions. I am a muslim with the common muslim name Mohammed, in the questionnaire they gave in the e-mail the last two questions were ” previous passport booklet details” and “Previous travel history”, I have had three passports so far the latest one is with the VO and the one before that had to be cancelled since it had my Surname not mentioned onto it. So the first two passports are with me. And I have traveled to Saudi Arabia when i was a kid and visited Oman once, I have mentioned this info in the answers to the questions. Filled in correct answers for all the questions.

        Until yesterday the portal showed just one status update but it still read as”Administrative Processing”, yesterday I got an e-mail whose subject is “Please come for a re-interview on June 19, 2013, at 10:30 a.m. ” and the e-mail says this “Please bring your valid passport or valid photo identity proof (Government issued – Passport, any ID proof e.g. Drivers License, PAN card, Electoral Identity card, etc.), print-out of this letter, while coming to the Consulate General.” and nothing more. I am too nervous, i have no idea what they gonna ask me, what do they want..!! Too nervous..! Has anybody been into such a situation earlier? Please help.

        Reply
        • Hi Arafat,

          I am in the similar situation right now, I was interviewed on 1/july/2013 and the VO told me the same thing that my visa looks ok and I will soon receive an email from the consulate and will have to answer a questionnaire, also I was given form 221 (g) white slip. But the VO did not took my passport and ever since the day of interview I am waiting for the email but have not received yet. When I check my application status online it shows under AP. Had u already had your interview? How did it go? Regards.

          Reply

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