Wait Times – Look up Visa Appointment & Processing Wait Times for the specific U.S. Embassy or Consulate processing the 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. The consular officer cannot determine that an applicant will leave the United States at the end of their nonimmigrant stay. Most nonimmigrants must provide evidence of strong ties to their home country which would compel departure from the United States at the end of the program. However, nonimmigrants in H-1B status can be the beneficiary of an immigrant visa petition, apply for adjustment of status, or take other steps toward Lawful Permanent Resident status without affecting their status. This is known as "dual intent" and has been recognized in immigration law since passage of the Immigration Act of 1990, so 214(b) denials are rare for H-1B status.
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. DIS maintains records of visa processing delays to track trends but is not able to expedite visa processing at the Department of State.