Wait Times – Look up
Visa Appointment & Processing Wait Times for the specific U.S. Embassy or Consulate processing your visa application.
Common Reasons for Visa Delays/Denial -
1. - 221(g) Incomplete Application or Supporting Documents (also referred to as Administrative Processing – see additional information below)
a. The consular officer cannot determine with the information submitted that an applicant is eligible for a visa.
2. - 214 (b) Intent to Immigrate
a. J-1 Exchange Visitors must provide sufficient evidence of strong ties to the home country which would compel departure from the United States at the end of the program.
Administrative Processing – Some visa applications are subject to more extensive checks, referred to as “Administrative Processing,” that may delay visa processing by several days to several weeks or longer. See the Department of State (DOS)
Administrative Processing Information webpage for more information.
DIS is unable to intervene in administrative processing. Visa applicants are reminded to apply early for their visas, well in advance of the anticipated travel or start date. Prepare for potential delays in the visa appointment and visa issuance process.
Notify DIS of Long Delays –
Notify DIS of administrative processing lasting longer than 90 days. If a prospective scientist’s visa application is undergoing administrative processing, DIS can adjust the NIH start date as appropriate. After the visa is issued,
notify DIS of the new start date and we will adjust award/appointment dates as needed.
J-1 or J-2 Exchange Visitors Sponsored by the NIH – DIS will update program dates in SEVIS for J-1s/J-2s who need to change their start date due to visa delays. DIS will provide an updated Form DS-2019 upon arrival to NIH. Do not request an updated Form DS-2019 from DIS unless it is explicitly requested by the Embassy or Consulate.