US visa processing in 2020-2021

In March 2020, U.S. consulates around the world stopped issuing any type of visas. From July 2020, the consulates gradually began to resume their work. In each country, the consulates issue different types of visas.

When the U.S. visa interview resumes? If the embassy is interviewing now? If visas are issued now? Is it possible to go to the United States? And what types of visas can be obtained at the moment? We have collected the essential info.

I have already paid the visa fee, but my interview was canceled. What to do?

All previously scheduled interviews for dates starting March 14, 2020 have been canceled. All the applicants received letters from the embassy with the notice of the cancellation of visa interviews.

Does this mean that the visa fee, which was paid earlier "will burn"? No, it does not. All visa fees paid earlier are valid until December 31, 2021, even if more than a year has passed since the payment was made. This was announced on the website of the U.S. Embassy in late September 2020.

Can I apply for the US visa now?

From August 12, 2020 the U.S. Embassy resumed consideration of some types of nonimmigrant visas: F1 student visas, transit visas and visas for crew members (this is the so-called C1/D sailor visa and some other less popular nonimmigrant visas).

Now it is also possible to apply for the working visa H1B, H2B, L1, but only if your case falls under the President Proclamation.

The ability to sign up for interviews varies by country. Check the Official U.S. visa information and services to find out current information about the operation of U.S. consulates in your country.

Can I extend my current US visa?

In September 2020, the USCIS reported that those who had previously held a U.S. visa may extend their visa without a visa interview if their visa expired less than 24 months ago. Previously it was possible to extend a visa without an interview, if no more than 12 months have passed since the visa expired. Your eligibility for an extension will be determined during the application process. To start that process, use this website: https://ceac.state.gov/CEAC/.

I already have a valid US visa. Can I travel to the US now?

The US borders are open and the quarantine is not required upon arrival. Holders of non-immigrant visas can come to the U.S., provided that their flight will pass (even transit) a European (Schengen) country, the UK, Ireland, Iran, China and Brazil. You will not be allowed to enter the United States if you have been in one of these countries in the past 14 days.

In some States, like Hawaii and Alaska, PCR or rapid tests are required upon arrival.

As always, the final decision on your entry into the country will be made by an officer at the border. Get ready in advance to give detailed and truthful answers about the purpose of your trip!

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