On June 12, 2015, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) reported delays in visa issuance at U.S. embassies and consular posts worldwide due to technical issues impacting the transmission of biometrics for completion of required background checks. The DOS subsequently advised that the system would not be back online until at least the week of June 22nd.
On Monday, June 22nd, the DOS announced that 22 posts were back online with restored connectivity that will allow for the transmission of biometrics and the completion of required background checks. The DOS said the 22 posts represent about half of the global nonimmigrant visa volume. Additional, lower-volume posts should be restored in the coming days as specialists continue to work around the clock to resolve the problem.
As more and more posts come back online and begin working through accumulated backlogs, applicants may expect slower processing and visa issuance. New applicants preparing to submit their applications for the first time should also be prepared for longer than normal wait times for a visa appointment.
As always, Foster will continue to monitor visa issuance delays and system outages and will provide additional information in future Immigration Updates© and on our firm’s website at www.fosterglobal.com.