Visa Section News
Latest News
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IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING THE 2012 DIVERSITY VISA PROGRAM
The results of the selection process for the 2012 Diversity Visa (DV-2012) program have been voided. Results previously available via the Entry Status Check (ESC) function on the Department of State website, dvlottery.state.gov, were posted in error and are now invalid. The results were not valid because, owing to a computer error, they did not represent a fair, random selection of entrants, as required by U.S. law.
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New Visa Procedures
Beginning January 10, 2011, the U.S. Embassy and Consulates will process visas differently. Under the new procedures, most applicants will go to Applicant Service Centers (ASCs) prior to their consular section interview. The ASC staff will collect the applicant’s biometric information that will be reviewed by the consular section prior to the applicant’s interview. ASCs will be located in buildings separate from the U.S. Embassy and Consulates.
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Changes to the Online DS-160 Application Form - Posted November 19, 2010
The Department of State has implemented an upgrade to the DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application to exit the DS-160 to gather additional information before completing the form. It also allows the Visa Section to “reopen” a DS-160 so that an applicant can return to the website and correct errors in a previously submitted application.. This upgrade enables applicants to "continue" an in-progress application if they need
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New Fee Requirement for L-1 Blanket Petition Applicants - Posted November 22, 2010
L-1 visa applicants applying under a blanket petition may be subject to an additional fee of $2,250 USD. If the petitioning employer has more than 50 employees in the United States and more than 50 percent of them are in H1-B or L status, the Embassy will review the applicant’s Form I-129S for a determination on the fee. If Form I-129S or other clarifying documentation is not provided, the application will not be processed.