What does it mean when your visa is under administrative processing?

When a person applies for a non-immigrant visa at an Embassy or Consulate, the Consular Officer can issue the visa at or soon after the visa interview. Administrative Processing means that the Consular Officer is sending the case from the Embassy/Consulate for further evaluation and screening.

Do all visa go through administrative processing?

Some visa applications require further administrative processing, which takes additional time after the visa applicant’s interview by a consular officer. Applicants are advised of this requirement when they apply. Most administrative processing is resolved within 60 days of the visa interview.

Can administrative processing be expedited?

While it is possible to request that a consular officer expedite administrative processing, consulates are known to expedite only those cases in which the applicant’s travel furthers a U.S. government interest, or involves a strong humanitarian concern.

How long is administrative processing for immigrant visa?

Most administrative processing is resolved within 180 days of the visa interview. When administrative processing is required, the timing will vary based on individual circumstances of each case. Visa applicants are reminded to apply early for their visa, well in advance of the anticipated travel date.

What is administrative processing status?

What is administrative processing? Administrative processing, also known as Security Advisory Opinion (SAO), is the time period during which visa applications undergo additional review outside of the “normal” visa processing times. Administrative processing takes place after the visa interview.

What happens in administrative processing of a visa?

Administrative Processing Information There are only two possible outcomes for complete and executed U.S. visa applications (absent a visa sanction against a country under Section 243 (d) of the Immigration and Nationality Act). The consular officer will either issue or refuse the visa.

When does a case go to administrative processing?

Administrative processing is a catch-all term for all post-interview processing before a final visa decision is made. Any case that is otherwise approvable on its face, but has an open, unresolved issue is referred to administrative processing. The request is forwarded from the NVC to DHS. After 10-days the case should be processed, even if

What happens if an application for a visa is refused?

If an application was refused and a consular officer indicates administrative processing is required, processing times can vary based on individual circumstances. If an applicant’s situation presents a unique hardship, please inform the consular section where the visa application was made.

What happens at the end of a visa interview?

Alternatively, the officer may conclude that the applicant remains ineligible for a visa. When administrative processing is required, the consular officer will inform the applicant at the end of the interview.