The USCIS processes immigration and non-immigration visas. They do this to review all the information that was submitted and the documents in order to determine, if the visa should be approved or denied. There are also some visa applications that require further processing and this will depend upon the type of visa the applicant has applied.
Applications that are for permanent residency, applications involving special waivers, religious, medical and investor’s visas, often have a more involved process for the application process. During this process, there will be an interview conducted by a Consular officer, during the process and in some cases testing of English and civics is required. The applicant will be informed about the interview and testing requirements, when beginning the application process. The time for processing a visa application will normally take approximately 60 days, after the interview has occurred. The time will vary for each case, though this is a way to judge the amount of time it can take to have the type of visa applied for approved or denied. It should be a reminder to begin the application process much earlier than the expected travel date to the United States.
During the 60 days, the process can be held up, if there have not been all the necessary documents submitted, or if they are not complete. This would result in a letter from the USCIS requesting the necessary information, and then the review would begin a second time. There normally would be no need for another interview or testing, just a review of the application and documents to make the decision.
The wait times for nonimmigrant visas and the interview can depend upon the country, and the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. This is why it is recommended to apply early and to ensure the passport date is around six months past the expiration date of the visa. Doing this will ensure that the passport does not expire, since it can take approximately 60 days after the interview to have the visa approved. When the family has questions about this process or when an individual is renewing their visa in the United States, they may benefit from the legal expertise of the North Dakota immigration lawyer. The immigration attorney North Dakota stays informed about any policy changes of rules and regulations by the USCIS. Any changes to the rules or regulations will also include the U.S. Embassy and Consulate immigration and nonimmigrant visa laws. They can assist in explaining the documents and application process and how to avoid hold ups, by not supplying enough information to the immigration official.