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Why US Visa Status on CEAC says Refused for 221g ? Dropbox ? Visa Interview ?

When you check your US Visa Stamping Status online, there are some cases, where the online status on the CEAC website shows as “Refused“, even though the consular officer said after the interview that it was approved. You may also see the same status after you dropped off documents for US Visa Dropbox stamping or you received form 221g Administrative Processing issued by the consular officer saying that they need to do some administrative processing and kept the passport.

In the past, it used to show “Administrative processing”, but it now shows as “refused” from March 3rd, 2020 onwards for most of the cases. This online status of “Refused” can cause a lot of panic among many in 221g administrative processing, dropbox stamping, or general visa stamping applicants. This article covers the issue with the status “Refused”, why it shows like that, and updates with user inputs & experiences.

How to Check US Visa Status on CEAC

If you do not know, the US CEAC website is the place where you check your US Visa status. CEAC stands for US Dept. of State’s Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC). If you are new and not sure how to use the CEAC website, you can read How to Check US Visa Status on the CEAC website to get an idea of how to check the status online and understand the status that is typically shown, when you check the US Visa status.

Let’s first look at the common situation with 221g, where you would see “Refused” Status. We will review Dropbox and the general visa interview later.

Previous US Visa Status for 221g on CEAC Website

In general, when you are issued a form 221g for administrative processing, you used to see the status of “Administrative processing” on the US Dept CEAC Website and the text under it used to read like below.

“Your visa case is currently undergoing necessary administrative processing. This processing can take several weeks. Please follow any instructions provided by the Consular officer at the time of your interview. If further information is needed, you will be contacted. If your visa application is approved, it will be processed and mailed/available within two business days. For more information, please visit US Consulate General <City name>”

See the screenshot below on exactly how it looked.

221g Administrative Processing Status CEAC Website
Administrative Processing

We have picked a case that is still in Administrative processing from the past and how it used to look. But, that changed from March 2020.  Pay close attention to the number to check below.

221g Status Changed to Refused for US Visa on US CEAC Website

From early March 2020, many users have reported and we verified as well that most of the 221g Cases’ status has changed to “Refused”, even when there was no real update on their ‘Case Last Updated Date’ or anything has changed. One key thing to note is the text under it has changed. It reads like below now.

“A U.S. Consular Officer has adjudicated and refused your visa application. Please follow any instructions provided by the consular officer. If you were informed by the consular officer that your case was refused for administrative processing, your case will remain refused while undergoing such processing. You will receive another adjudication once such processing is complete. Please be advised that the processing time varies and that you will be contacted if additional information is needed. For more information, please visit TRAVEL.STATE.GOV or the website for the Embassy or Consulate at which you made your visa application. For more information, please visit U.S. Consulate General <Consulate name>”

Pay close attention to the bold text, it basically tells that, if you were given Administrative processing, then it will be processed in administrative processing. Also, see the screenshot below with status ‘Refused’, it is the same case number as above.

221g - Status Refused - CEAC Website

You may watch the below YouTube Video on 221g CEAC Status Administrative Processing, which covers the same details

Why has the Status Changed from Administrative Processing to Refused Suddenly?

Well, the CEAC website changed the displayed status text to be in line with the form given by the consular officer, and that’s why you see this big change and the confusion. If you check your 221g notice or any of the standard 221g forms given, you will see the text that says “Your application for a nonimmigrant visa has been refused per section 221(g) of the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act…”.

See the below screenshots of sample 221(g) forms issued by US Consulates:

221g Refused Text on White Slip
221g Slip given after the visa interview – White color
221g Pink Slip Refused Text
221g Slip given after the visa interview – Pink Color

So, technically, it was refused and the online status now on the CEAC website now reflects the same. So, nothing to panic about or worry about.

The text below the actual ‘refused‘ status on the CEAC website tells clearly that if you were given administrative processing, it will be continued to be processed and you will receive another update on the decision/adjudication once the process is complete. There is nothing to worry about, if you have been issued a 221g, it will be continued to be processed.

Official Communication Travel.State.Gov New Alert

On March 5th, 2020, the US Department of State updated their website in a news alert that they have made the status-related text change to reflect the actual change, but does not really change the case information. As discussed above, it is in line with the 221g sheet given to the applicant, when their case goes to Administrative processing. Check the below screenshot, which tells the change in text. You can check the Official Travel.State.Gov Press Release for CEAC Change

Adminstrative Processing Changed to Refused - CEAC - March 2020 News Relase
CEAC Case Status Change News Alert by the US Dept of State

National Visa Center – Verified Change

We called National Visa Center regarding the status changed and asked about the change. They confirmed that the status text has changed for Administrative processing, but nothing other than that. If you were given a slip for 221g or told by Consular Officer that your case will be in administrative processing, then your case will be processed accordingly.

The status text of the refused for Administrative processing is different from the real refused case, without administrative processing. We cover that below. In any case, you can call National Visa Center as well and verify, if you are concerned. You need to have your Passport Number, Date of Birth, and Case ID for getting info on your case. You may have to wait for 30 to 45 min, details of the Phone Number for the National Visa Center are at: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/contact-us/us-visas.html

Actual Refused Status Text on CEAC? Is it Consistent?

It is very hard to say what the exact status you would see on the CEAC website if your US Visa was really refused for good. In the past, it was clear, but since March 2020 and in recent times in 2021, this has been very inconsistent. Many users see the “Refused” status as an intermediate status as well.

In early 2020, some “refused” cases that were ultimately “denied” had “refused” status on the CEAC website with shorter text. See the below screenshots. But, that is not true always. Many cases in late 2020 and 2021 had “Refused” status with shorter text as an intermediate status and later they changed to Administrative processing and then “Issued”. So, it is very hard to say the exact text for real refused cases.

Observed CEAC Status Changes: Refused ( with short text ) >> Administrative Processing >> Issued

The only way to tell, if your case was refused, is if you get a confirmation from Consulate that says, your case is refused. Sample US Visa Denial Letter from US Consulate after 221g

Example of CEAC Status Refused with Shorter text

  • Old Text for Refused: Your application was refused. Please refer to the letter or other instructions you were given at the time of your visa interview. For more information, please visit <US consulate name >
  • New Text for Refused: A consular officer has adjudicated and refused your visa application. Please see the letter you received at the interview. For more information, please visit <US Consulate name>
  • See below Refused Status with shorter text, before and after March 20th, 2020.
CEAC Status Refused - Before - After Change 2020
US Visa Refused Case status

US Visa Status for Dropbox shows Refused or Administrative Processing

If you have submitted your documents for US Visa stamping using the Dropbox option for renewals, like H1B Dropbox, then you may see “Administrative Processing” as the status on the CEAC website. Sometimes, due to the issue we described in the article above, you may also see the “Refused” status as well.

Usually, this status of “Refused” or “Administrative Processing” would change in about a week to 10 days. If not, then you can reach out to the consulate. Do not panic, if you see this status.

Also, at times, some users reported that you would see “Refused” or “Administrative Processing” status for a general US Visa in-person interview, where the consular officer said that your visa was approved and kept your passport. Give it a few days for the status to change. If it does not change after a week or 10 days, then reach out to the consulate.

What do you see on your 221g Status on CEAC website? How about Dropbox Status? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

   

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1,708 Comments

  1. Si aun sigo esperando tampoco me dicen nada y yo igual ya estoy desesperada…esto de no saber nada es desesperante, ya no se que más hacer esta situación es frustrante y más cuando tienes a tu familia del otro lado esperando por ti.

    Reply
  2. Hi,

    This is Rafi from Bangladesh. I attended my F1 visa interview on 25th May. The visa officer initially approved my visa. I was so happy. But on the same day after about an hour I received “non immigrant visa questionnaire” via email, which asks for things like travel history, job history, places that I lived etc. and my CEAC status was “Refused”.

    I emailed them back with the answers on 27th May and waited about a month for an update. Finally, on 23rd June CEAC status was changed to “Administrative Processing”. But sadly on 24th June CEAC status changed back to “Refused” again.

    I know many students who received questionnaire like me and their status was “Refused” but once it was changed to “Administrative Processing”. They got their visa “Issued” within a few days or weeks.

    AFAIK, it’s me only whose case changed from Refused > AP > Refused, again.

    I have to be on campus by 15th August, this processing is so frustrating that it is driving nuts.

    Could you please tell me, what should I do? do you know someone with similar scenario? how long they will take to resolve my case.

    Regards

    Reply
    • Rafi,
      You should reach out to the consulate, write them an email or call them and get clarity. If it is 221g, there is no estimated time.

      Reply
    • Hi Rafi
      I’m in the same situation my visa was approved and after two days I received a mail. So I’m little confused how long it will take and after submitting the mail back did you receive any confirmation?
      Or any email back ?
      Thanks

      Reply
    • Do you get your visa brother?I have the same problem ? If anybody have the same problem in the have any information please let me know this is my email. hesham.3611@gmail.com

      Reply
  3. Hello My Spouse went for H4 Stamping for DropBox on 6/21/2021 and on 6/23/2021 the status was changed to Administrative Processing and suddenly on 6/24/2021, the status was changed to Refused.
    If it application was still under Administrative processing what are the ways that Consulate tries to reach her for additional documentation?
    I have not submitted any NIE letter along with the documents, could that be the reason why the application was refused.
    Please suggest to me what to do now.
    Thanks in Advance.

    Reply
    • Me too in the same boat. I was planning to send a request for NIE approval mail along with NIE letter (from my employer), as the passport hasn’t been dispatched from the consulate yet.
      Do you think its the right approach? please suggest.

      Reply
      • Hello pri

        I was also thinking to do the same.
        As of now its been more than 2 weeks and there was no update on the status and it still shows administrative processing.
        Im also planning to send the nie mail and letter from my employer.

        What was the status of ur update.
        U can reach me on my email:nvenkat2890@gmail
        Thanks

        Reply
    • Hi Venkat,

      Any update on your case?
      Same thing is happened with my sister, any process that you know will be a great help for us.
      Please reach out to me at kondetiinaidu@gmail.com.
      Appreciate your help!

      Thank you,
      Ray

      Reply
      • Hi venkatsh,and mustefa ,and raja.Or anybody have the same problem. Any update ? Please let me know this is my email. Hesham.3611@gmail.com

        Reply
  4. Hello,

    Appreciate your feedback/response on this:

    We as a family had an interview for US visa on 10th June 2021 (Non immigrant visa for self and family (2 adults and 2 kids));
    – We were informed by the Visa officer at the end of the interview that our visas have been approved and we would receive them via courier.
    – For wife and kids application status is now ‘Issued’ however for myself the status was changed to ‘Refused’ on June 15th. Refer to the below details on my application.

    Refused
    Application ID or Case Number: AA00A4KAJD
    Case Created: 10-Jun-2021
    Case Last Updated: 15-Jun-2021

    A U.S. consular officer has adjudicated and refused your visa application. Please follow any instructions provided by the consular officer. If you were informed by the consular officer that your case was refused for administrative processing, your case will remain refused while undergoing such processing. You will receive another adjudication once such processing is complete. Please be advised that the processing time varies and that you will be contacted if additional information is needed. For more information, please visit TRAVEL.STATE.GOV or the website for the Embassy or Consulate at which you made your visa application.
    For more information, please visit U.S. Consulate General Dubai.

    Reply
    • Same was the case with me also. I had applied for a B1/B2 Visa. On April 5th in my interview, I was told that I have been granted the visa and I can collected it two days later. The next day I got an email that my case is under administrative processing and they requested certain details over email (like previous travel details, sibling, spouse, previous addresses etc.). I provided them the detail the same day. For almost 55 days, there was no change in status online. Then I got an email that my visa has been issued and then I also online and noted that the status was changed to Issued. I went to the embassy and got my passport along with visa. So you will also get the visa. You just need to wait. Good luck. Thanks!

      Reply
  5. I don’t really know how to thank Dr Isiramen enough for what he has done for me. My husband ignored me and went back to his mistress for the past 3 months. If not for the intervention of Dr Isiramen, i wouldn’t have gotten back my husband. He’s powerful spell brought back my husband within 48 hours. Is there anyone out there who needs to get back to he’s or her lover back? Then, I suggest that you get in touch with Dr isiramen for more information or help contacts himvia:drisiramen@hotmail.com or call or whatsaap: +17072613058 for help

    Reply
  6. On March 29th, I dropped off documents for H1B visa stamping, and on April 5th, the status changed to Administrative Processing, and I have not received any email or notice (221(g)) from the embassy.
    On June 7th status changed to Refused with the long text, called the ustraveldocs to know the exact reason but they replied that it’s still under AP..

    Is anyone else having similar status?

    Reply
    • Yes I dropped documents for H1B on April29th,status was showing as refused but I have not received any email.if you got any response please keep posted.

      Reply
      • that is because they are giving 221g due to travel ban . we have to wait until regular processing starts with h1b and they call for 221g processing.

        Reply
  7. Hi
    Kumar my child FX2 category visa issued 28 Feb 2020 and now expired because she can’t travel she is 4 years and waiting her Mom and my wife case status at that time AP now refused .
    How to renew my child expired visa and how long it takes
    Thank you

    Reply
  8. Hi
    I got 221g green slip for h1b in end of January 2020. And it still shows refused and its been a long time and they didn’t even change any thing on my status on website. But whenever i call them or email them all they say is still under process and these days embassies are closed and they say we will let you know once we resume regular processing. Have any idea what could be possibly going on with my case? Any further instructions for me to follow on my case?

    Reply
  9. They asked me to send my residency in kuwait by mail
    On the 2nd day i got this email

    Document received. Your visa application is at the final stage of processing. As soon as we can move forward with your application, you will be contacted immediately.
    Is this mean any thing
    My status refused since 9th may

    Reply
  10. Hello everyone,

    IR-1 VISA

    I received this email from the U.S embassy in Cairo, Egypt. Please note that the case is pending proof that he has moved to a state where cousin marriage is legal. But I already sent them the proof on 31, March 2021 by email … is that means the proof I sent is not accepted and I have to send more proof or they don’t accept document by email and I have to send it by Aramex? please help. Thanks

    Reply
    • What kind of proof you sent?
      You need to send something that prove your new address in State that allows cousin marriage. The embassy knows these states, but they request to prove that you move to one of these states.

      Reply
      • I did move to New York its allows cousin marriage. I sent Renewal leasing but the leasing is my dads, he added my name to the lease plus I sent them my phone bill with new address.

        Reply
        • Then, you can email the embassy asking about more them to clarify what is the exact needed documents, ask them about some examples.

          They accept Emails, it doesn’t need to be using Aremax. They will reply in couple of days.

          Reply
          • Thanks Ahmed for responding. Do you think U.S. embassy accept bank statement as a proof? Because I wanted to exchange my driver license to NY but its going to take time with Corona Situation

  11. I am egyption working in kuwait i sent to renew my B1/B2visa by mail
    Case opened 2 may
    Case update administrative processing 6th nay
    9th may updated refused with long text what have i do now wait or contact them please any one with same experience

    Reply
  12. Hello everyone,

    My wife had interview in Cairo, Egypt on the 24th of March 2021 she was not ask many questions and the consular was very nice to her he asked for a proof of domicile of me. However I send the paper a week later… 4 days later they send me this …. Please note that the file with the officer for his review, once we finish our procedures, we will process the case to conclusion. the last update was on April 5 2021 case remain refused It’s been almost a month since they sent me this email … just wondering if there is a timeline for them in Cairo or someone is in a similar situation? Please if someone have the same situation or knows about it comment below thank you very much…Case shows refused

    Reply
  13. I attended for H1 dropbox on Apr 23rd. Status was updated to “Refused” with long text on Apr 26th. Since then there is no update in the status. How long does it usually take to get a status update after getting “Refused” status? Since embassy/consulate are not operational right now for new appointments, are the previous cases (passports submitted before May 3rd) being administered ?

    Reply
    • For me it took exactly 3 weeks. I submitted my passport in Apr16th, since 19th status was Refused. Today may 7th passport is ready for pick but status still shows refused. Not sure if I’ll have my Visa in the passport when I go to collect it.

      Reply
      • Hi Nikhil,

        Did you pickup your passport ? May I know the status of the Visa ?? Have they issued visa in the Passport ??

        Please reply

        Reply
        • Received my passport with no visa in it. They gave me a white slip which says due to the travel ban, if you are physically present in India 14 days prior to May 4, then you are subjected to the ban. When I contacted the Counsulate, they said a US Counsular office has adjudicated my case and I can follow up with them regarding my case status when the embassy resumes regular processing.

          Reply
          • Hi Nikhil

            I also got the same response from embassy . dropped passport on april 30th and received the passport with 221g response today. Do you know what needs to be done once the embassy starts back ? will they contact us or we need to schedule a new appointment again ?

          • Hi Nikhil
            I am in the same situation as yours ,My Visa status was showing up as refused and my pass port status showing as ready for pickup.What is your next steps? do you have to schedule appointment again once offices are open?

          • Hi Nikhil,
            Hope you are doing well. I am on the same boat as you, received 221g due to travel ban. Any idea what would be the next steps. Do we need to apply again and book the slot or will they get back to us?
            Please kindly share any information you have.
            Thank you.

      • Hi they called me on the 9th of June to submit my passport again. I submitted my passport and waiting for the visa to arrive.

        Reply
          • I asked my manager at work to email them. After she emailed, they reached out. I got a call from the actual Counsular officer who interviewed me over the phone. The status of visa changed to administrative processing. Hoping to get my Visa soon.

  14. Hello Kumar
    Dropbox done on 20th April
    22nd Application received
    26apirl Refused status with long text.
    Called couple of times to customer service standard answer 7-10day business days, it been 10 workings days since dropbox date, should I wait for 10 working days from Refused status or should I send email today.
    Any specific format or reasoning or just ask update?

    Reply
  15. Dear, I have received a refusal form from US embassy during the interview under section 221g. The consular officer asked me to submit New joint sponsor because my current joint sponsor is not sufficient to support me. i have a few questions regarding submitting new joint sponsor Affidavit support
    1) I have to submit the newly signed affidavit support of the petitioner again or just submit the new joint sponsor original Affidavit support

    How to submit or add a new joint sponsor on the NVC portal? I can’t add a new joint sponsor. Should I attach new joint sponsor docs on petition AOS?

    Reply
  16. Hi,

    I have a question. I interviewed on April 12th for H1b in Chennai. I received a 221g white form and VO returned my passport. Within 4 days after submitting the docs for 221g documents, I received another 221g white asking me to submit the passport which i did on April 26th.

    Does anyone know what’s going on with my case and when can i expect some response back ? Do you think my visa is approved?

    April 26th when I submitted the passport is a tricky date because that’s when they announced cancellation of all appointments in Chennai but i was allowed to submit the passport. Does it mean they are processing 221g but not taking any in person interview or biometrics ?

    Reply
  17. Hello Kumar,

    I went for H1 + H4 dropbox at Chennai VAC. One week later my H1 status on CEAC website is Admin Processing but for my H4 Spouse it says Refused. Is this normal ? Can they refuse H4 without refusing H1 first and is this going down the route of 221g?

    Reply
    • Phone (for nonimmigrant visa inquiries only): (603) 334-0888

      https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/national-visa-center/nvc-contact-information.html

      Reply
  18. Hi Kumar,

    I attended my H1b Visa interview in Chennai on April 12th, 2021. I have a criminal record which is expunged. The very first question the VO asked was to explain and i did and showed him the document. He gave me a 221g white slip asking for court disposition and gave my passport back. He asked for nothing, no documents, no photo, no passport.

    I submitted the disposition record on April 19th. I just want to know how will this case proceed. I am not expecting an email saying submit your passport because they did not retrieve any documents during visa interview, not even asked about what i do where i work etc etc.

    Do you think they will ask me to appear for another interview where they will go through the formalities which they should have during my interview on April 12th.

    I don’t believe my case is a simple one. What are your views ?

    If anyone’s been in same situation please let me know how did your case go.

    CAEC status is refused “A U.S. consular officer has adjudicated and refused your visa application. Please follow any instructions provided by the consular officer. If you were informed by the consular officer that your case was refused for administrative processing, your case will remain refused while undergoing such processing. You will receive another adjudication once such processing is complete. Please be advised that the processing time varies and that you will be contacted if additional information is needed. For more information, please visit TRAVEL.STATE.GOV or the website for the Embassy or Consulate at which you made your visa application.
    For more information, please visit U.S. Consulate General Chennai.”

    Reply
  19. I had a dropbox appointment for April 21st in Mumbai.
    Today, April 22nd update:

    Case Created: 22-Apr-2021
    Case Last Updated: 22-Apr-2021

    A U.S. consular officer has adjudicated and refused your visa application. Please follow any instructions provided by the consular officer. If you were informed by the consular officer that your case was refused for administrative processing, your case will remain refused while undergoing such processing. You will receive another adjudication once such processing is complete. Please be advised that the processing time varies and that you will be contacted if additional information is needed. For more information, please visit TRAVEL.STATE.GOV or the website for the Embassy or Consulate at which you made your visa application.
    For more information, please visit U.S. Consulate General Mumbai.
    —–

    I haven’t got any email or sms about application status and if I need to collect the passport.

    Reply
    • Case Last Updated: 26-Apr-2021

      NONIMMIGRANT VISA APPLICATION
      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.
      For more information, please visit U.S. Consulate General Mumbai.

      Reply
  20. Hi Kumar,
    I got 221g in march 2020. My client verification is completed in Feb-2021. But my status is still Refused and description was update to the short description in the last week of February. Please let me know your comment.

    Reply
    • Hi Kumar.

      I have submitted requested documents under 221g yellow slip last year. Is it advisable to re-send all the documents ? any suggestion please..

      Reply
  21. Hello All,
    Did anyone attended for H4 interview in Delhi this month (April 2021). Did you receive your passports with stamping immediately or it is still under Admin processing?

    Reply
    • Hello, my wife h4 Dropbox was in Chennai in April 1st and she received her passport with no visa. She received 221g with refused status online. In 221g they checked “other” stating that “evidence of spouses H1B status”.
      I am not sure why she has received that status when she submitted my 797 approval during the drop box.

      Reply
  22. HI, I have attended H1b visa interview on Feb 17, 2021 and I was given a 221g (White) Saying Additional Administrative processing. From that day onwards it was showing “Refused” and they held my passport. But on Mar 9, 2021 they mailed me to pick up passport and I got my passport without visa on Mar 11, 2021 they also gave me the same form saying my case in Additional Administrative processing. I got a call for Consulate on 17 Feb and requested some information (like I 129 etc.,) and later they have contacted my employer for additional documentation which they have submitted, then they have contacted the clients also for additional documentation , which have been submitted by them (this all happened before 9 Mar). The status still says Refused can any one help me what should I do now?

    Reply
    • my friend applied on March 18th ..visa refused status on March 19th. More than 2 weeks now, no letter or email from consulate. She did emailed them but no response. Please advice what else can be done?

      Reply
      • I’m in the same boat Mahe. Did your friend receive any response?

        Submitted my application for Dropbox on 16th April. Changed to Refused on the 19th. It’s 29th today still no update. I even emailed them twice, they say case created and will respond in 1 to 2 business days but no response. My travel is on May1st don’t know what to do.

        Reply
        • Hi Nikhil,

          My case is also same as you i.e Submitted my application for Dropbox on 16th April. Changed to Refused on the 20th. Still no update till today. I even emailed them and got response that its in administrative processing. My travel is on May1st too and cancelled my journey, Please update me if you have any. Thank you

          Reply
          • Hey Kiran finally today I.e May 7th it says passport is ready for pick up. But the status on the CEAC still remains refused. Not sure if I’ll have the visa. But my uncle works With some consultant. He was telling me if you have a change in employer, then they will likely give you a 221g. Not sure, I’ll have to check my passport.

        • Hi Nikhil,
          What is your status now, you got approved, if yes how long it took which consulate you applied can you give details if approved or change in status

          Reply
        • Hi Nikhil,

          Thank you for update, Please let me know whether its a interview call or other on 221g as I too changed my employer and expecting same.

          Reply
          • Received my passport with no visa in it. They gave me a white slip which says due to the travel ban, if you are physically present in India 14 days prior to May 4, then you are subjected to the ban. When I contacted the Counsulate, they said a US Counsular office has adjudicated my case and I can follow up with them regarding my case status when the embassy resumes regular processing. What is your status Kiran? I think all we can do is to wait and pray for the travel ban proclamation to end. Don’t know if there is any other way.

    • Got a call on 21Apr to submit passport and submitted passport on 21Apr, On 22Apr Status changed to “Administrative Processing” and they have updated status to “Issued” on 27Apr. Got passport on 28 Apr with Visa stamped.

      Reply
  23. My interview done august 2020 my visa category IR2 . my visa is approved . but few day ago passport return without visa because immigration ban PP 10014 . now this PP end 24 feb 10014 . 1 month done ending this ban but embassy not contact me . anyone have on that situation Plz tell me …..🙏🏻

    Reply
  24. Hi 👋 I applied for IR1 visa, I had my interview March 4th 2021 after that they given me a 221g sheet of paper required for my original divorce degree and the police report from my country “El Salvador ” I had to order my divorce degree from the court and take me one week to send the documents. Now my visa status is “refused ” and on the other one is on “documents delivery information ” we call the embassy and they said they reviewed the documents but is a week since that call and everything stills the same… someone knows if I am approved and how long is going to take the status to change or when I can get my visa? Thanks in advance

    Reply
  25. Hi Team,

    Below is the Status which i have received for H1B Dropbox for stamping. Does this mean it is 221g or Should need to wait for 10 days. Please help.

    U.S. Department of State

    NONIMMIGRANT VISA APPLICATION

    Refused

    Application ID or Case Number:
    Case Created: 25-Mar-2021
    Case Last Updated: 29-Mar-2021

    A U.S. consular officer has adjudicated and refused your visa application. Please follow any instructions provided by the consular officer. If you were informed by the consular officer that your case was refused for administrative processing, your case will remain refused while undergoing such processing. You will receive another adjudication once such processing is complete. Please be advised that the processing time varies and that you will be contacted if additional information is needed. For more information, please visit TRAVEL.STATE.GOV or the website for the Embassy or Consulate at which you made your visa application.

    Reply
      • I got my 221g for Photo change, i dont know why, there is an issue with my photo. I resubmitted my passport and today the status changed to Issued. Phew

        Reply
        • How did they contact you for re-submitting your passport ? We haven’t received any info as to when to attend the interview or submit docs. Emailed but no response. Should we walk-in ? Waiting for your reply.

          Reply
          • Hi Manoj,

            did you get any update? how did they contact you and which consulate? I am also in the same situation could you please share the details?

          • Hi,
            My VISA status show Refused for dropbox
            Case Created: 16-Apr-2021
            Case Last Updated: 20-Apr-2021

            Should I wait for 10 days or contact the consulate? I haven’t received any email/sms requesting for any additional document.

            How do we contact consulate?

            Thanks

  26. Hi My Hisband who is Is Citizen filed for ir1 and ir2 for my daughter my daughter is his step daughter. Got our interview March 10 2021, after the interviewd the consulate said Goodluck and wait for 2 to 4 weeks. Got my passport with visa after 5 days. But not my daughter status always Ready and the other day her ceac status is REFUSED we are all panic because i cannot leave her and our papers will be expired on July 2021. What do we need to do. Is this nothing to worry or whay. Thank you and God bless.

    Reply
  27. I had H1B refusal for 221G blue slip, but with existing visa of H1B came back, now H1B extension is done after coming to US, so what should I answer in DS160 for the question was your US visa was denied previously?

    Thanks.
    Umesh

    Reply
  28. Hello Sir,
    The first interview date that was given to me was March 16,2020 but it was postponed because of the lockdown then it was moved to April 22, 2020. I have been trying to schedule for another interview date but unfortunately the embassy said there’s still no schedule for immigrant interview and will just be adviced when will it be continued. I checked my current status now but it says “REFUSED” on Oct, 2020 and Now I just checked at CEAC about my visa application again and it says “EXPIRING SOON” dated March 17, 2021. Please enlighten me with this case status.

    Thank you.

    Reply
  29. Eb3 visa. After 2and half months, status has been changed into Administrative processing. But after 20 days , it has changed into Ready status.
    What does that mean,?
    Does anyone know and is going through same problem?

    Reply
    • Hi Rosh a,

      I think the ready status means your visa will soon be issued and I guess it must have been issued by now
      Did you get any email notification from the embassy when your status was updated to Administrative processing and ready respectively.
      Will appreciate your response, thanks

      Reply
  30. Hi,
    I had my H1 visa interview on 17feb and was issue a 221g. CEAC website still show as refused and last update date is 17th feb.
    I was asked to email few document which I did on 18feb. Should I wait or reach out to someone to check on the status.

    Reply
  31. Hi,
    My case is in administrative processing from long time.. currently Im in need of my passport which is withheld at hyderabad consulate. I requested for my passport thr email to hydcea and support@ustraveldocs.. but there is no response from them either in email or customer call
    Any idea is there any thing wrong at the hyd consulate side..or there any options to reach out to them

    Reply
  32. Hello!
    Just wanna share our experience here as RedBus2us is one of the best place where you find information regarding US visa application and immigration.

    My wife appeared for H4 visa on 23rd Feb 2021, got white 221(g) with note to submit additional docs. The reason is as in the past she lived in US on F1 visa(Medical field) and most of the medical background ppl has to go through FBI BCI background checks if you want to practice in US. She did as well in the past and Visa officer want to see those reports. She wasn’t carrying those reports as they were very old/expired so officer give her a chance to submit it later with her passport. At this point her status online was refused.

    Anyways long story short, she submitted her background reports with passport on 11th March 2021 and checked status online on 12th March 2021. Case Last Update date got changed to 12th March 2021 with status still refused and long text. We got scared and disappointed as within one day our application got refused. This is where we found this thread and it helped us understanding how things works with online visa status. After going through this thread and comments, we realized that we need to be patience until our application status says your passport is dispatched. We were just keep on checking her visa and application status everyday patiently and on 16th March 2021 her visa status got updated with Administrative Processing.

    Moral of the story, Visa status and application status are two different things which has different status as well. Visa status can change many times during your application submit and until/unless your application status says your passport is dispatched, do not get scared with visa status updates. Have some patience and keep your positivity around.

    Reply
  33. I attended my H4 visa along with my 3 years old daughter and the interviewer said my visa is approved but when I checked the status in CEAC it shows my refused.
    Application ID or Case Number:
    Case Created: 01-Mar-2021
    Case Last Updated: 01-Mar-2021

    A U.S. consular officer has adjudicated and refused your visa application. Please see the letter you received at the interview.

    But I haven’t received any letter from them during/after the interview.

    Still, the status shows refused and hasn’t received any further update.

    Can anyone help me with the next steps.

    Reply
  34. Hi All,
    I submitted my passport in dropbox under L1A Individual, on Mar second, status changed to received on Mar 3rd and to Refused with long text on Mar 5th. From then there is no update , also the passport is still with embassy as of Mar 10.
    Did any one has similar experience and what should I understand from this .

    Please guide

    Reply
  35. Hi all,

    I have been going through this post since long and the comments really helped me in my case, so, will share my story quickly.
    April 2020: Applied for L1B individual at USCIS.
    September 2020: Got L1B approved by USCIS.
    October 28 2020: applied for emergency appointment.
    December 31 2020: Emergency appointment got approved.
    January 20 2021: Me and my spouse went for Visa interview, VO took the passport for administrative processing. Status showed refused with long text.
    January 25 2021: Status updated to administrative processing for both of us.
    January 27: my visa got approved and I received stamped passport on January 28. My husband’s visa still in administrative processing.
    February 23: my husband’s visa status changed to issued and received the passport on February 25.

    I hope this will help some doubts.

    Reply
    • Thanks for sharing! I went to my appointment on March 25th it showed “refused” with the long text until yesterday. Now it has moved to “administrative processing”. I really hope to get my passport shortly!

      Reply
  36. Hi,

    I had my L1B Blanket visa interview on March 8- the consular said “Your visa is approved” and gave my I-129S with approved stamp and validity dates. I came back and was look at the visa application status it says refused and the brief text. I am confused at the moment.

    Has anyone faced similar situation?

    Reply
  37. Hello,
    I recently had my H1b renewal dropbox appointment at Hyderabad. Status changed to refused in 2 days and no update yet. It’s been a week and haven’t received any notification. But when I called the NVC help desk, they said they see that i need to attend interview on March 3. But I haven’t received any information regarding this and also my passport is still with the embassy. Did anyone have experience like this? Please let me know

    Reply
      • Hello Love Arora

        What is your experience? I’m also in similar situation. My passport is stuck with HYD US consulate/embassy. How can contact consulate & get updates?

        Thanks

        Reply
        • Wait for your passport. I received mine after 5 days, with 221g for walk in interview. I went next day and got visa approved. So don’t panic and all the best…

          Reply
          • You were able to get a walk-in appointment? I thought in the 221 emails they’re saying do not do a walk in.

    • Hi Deepthi,

      What is your experience? I’m also in similar situation. My passport is stuck with HYD US consulate/embassy. How can contact consulate & get updates?

      Reply
  38. Hello!

    My husband had interview and was told he was accepted for the immigrant visa. The consular then realized something in the computer and the status is now Refused. His passport is at the emabssy and we’ve heard nothing. They said they would reach out if they needed anything and they haven’t, we’re super confused.

    Anyone have an additional check done on their passport? Thank you!

    Reply
  39. Hello Kumar,
    I had to go for an official event in USA in March2020. I had applied for USA B1 visa for the same in Feb 2020. I went for interview and they gave me 221g asking me to email some documents. In March 2020, I received email to submit passport. But I could not submit the passport due to lockdown.
    Now on 19th Feb 2021, I have received an email to “appear in person for an interview” at the consulate with passport and documents. They have told not to schedule appointment, but use the email as appointment and reach at the date and time mentioned in email.
    Now the concern is, the visa that I had applied does not hold valid anymore as the event was in Mar 2020. So not sure why they are calling me again instead of asking me to send passport. So I assume there is no point going for interview.
    Secondly if I don’t go, as there is no reason to go, will it impact my further applications for visa?
    Kindly help me with these queries

    Thanks
    Priya

    Reply
  40. Hello,
    My husband got denied with the 221g today because my joint sponsor paperwork was not submitted to NVC. they said to upload it online and to email them to confirm it. Do you know what website we upload it to? the paper he got doesn’t say and NVC won’t allow us to add anything.

    Reply
  41. If your status is update two time for the month is that a good look?it’s been one year now my husband case is in administrative processing

    Reply
  42. Hi ,

    This is Sam. My wife currently in India gone for h4 dropbox(Chennai Consulate). Documents submitted on Feb 01. On Feb 08 status showed “Refused” with long text. Feb 10th collected the passport without stamping with 221g. With following Ask.
    to Email embassy the pdf showing- “All Evidence that Husband/PA is currently in the US. Do Not send pay slips or bank Statements.
    Evidence including most recent I-94,Copy of all Stamp pages on passport and others”
    This is exact statement written on 221g. (Nothing Else)
    Now, my current stamped visa/last -i94 is expired on Dec 2020. What i have is Approved I -979A with I-94 attached. What other documents we can email showing my current presence in US?

    Thank you!

    Reply
    • Hi Sam, My wife went for H4 dropbox (Chennai Consolate) and got 221g asking for the PA visa(my H1b visa) and proof for PA currently in US. I don’t have stamped H1b visa. Hence we sent the H1b extension approval and proof of photo (Along with the newspaper) for being in the US. We are still waiting for the visa approval for more than a month.

      Did your wife got the H4 visa? If so how long does it take to receive the visa?

      Reply
      • Hi Ramesh,
        No response yet. Status still show refused since Feb 8th. Meanwhile, i had gone to India in April and got my H1 stamping done. In April, again sent the latest H1b visa Copy and I-94. Still no response. Need to follow up once embassy is open.

        Reply
        • Just wanted to update status on my wife’s H4 221G status.

          1. Looks like US consulate didnt see my latest documents(I94 and H1B stamp copy emailed in April.
          2. Based on my old email in February (with all supporting docs where I-94 was expired , but had valid I797). They issued another 221G to in July saying I-94 is old and asked to submit latest I-94 and other supporting documents showing my presence in US.
          3. On the same day my current I-94 and Visa stamp copy submitted physically at VAC.
          4. On the very next day we received email saying ‘Administration process complete and to submit the passport at VAC’
          5. Submitted the passport. Visa status changed to ‘Issued” in 2 days and received the passport with H4 stamp along with NIE.

          So, overall it took 5 months to complete the 221G admin processing and to get the email response from chennaadmin email id.

          My suggestion would be, avoid going for H4 drop box alone if H1B visa holder in US and H1B stamp expired even though u have I797A approved extension.
          Its better to go for H4 and H1B drop box together .

          Thansk,
          SAM.

          Reply
  43. Coyane I had my interview with my husband from February 13th 2020 and is police record was expired and the council give me a wight slip 221g and for him to send the documents to the Korea service and we did .Friday is going to be one year and the case is still in administrative processing

    Reply
    • Hi Kumar my husband case cr1 under 221 g update 8 feb ,9,10,11 feb now they sending something drop box delivery but case is still refuseed passport with my husbade i am very scared plz give me any clue

      Reply
  44. Hi,
    I had an appointment of L1 A blanket visa with my spouse. The officer said that he had everything to approve my visa but cannot because he is unable to verify my case in system and wrote PIMS in the application that I gave and he shared back a 221(g) white form and kept the passport.
    Now the status shows administrative processing on the website.
    Wanted to know if I need to do any follow ups with my attorney or this is normal.

    Reply

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