The US Consulate General in Mumbai has officially reinstated full visa processing services, bringing relief to countless applicants who have faced delays due to the prolonged closure during the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes all visa categories, significantly cutting down wait times and addressing the backlog of applications.
Comprehensive Visa Processing Resumed
In a major development, the US Consulate General in Mumbai has resumed scheduling routine visa appointments across all categories. This move encompasses the acceptance of 221(g) submissions, a critical process for visa applicants needing to provide additional documentation.
“Applicants with previously cancelled appointments due to the pandemic have been notified with instructions on rescheduling,” confirmed a spokesperson for the US Consulate General.
This reinstatement of services is crucial for individuals and families who have had their travel plans disrupted over the past few years. The Consulate’s proactive approach aims to streamline visa processing and reduce the accumulated backlog, facilitating smoother travel arrangements for applicants.
Immigrant Visa Application Guidelines
For those seeking to apply for an immigrant visa, the process involves several key steps:
1. Sponsorship: Applicants must be sponsored by either a close relative who is a US citizen or lawful permanent resident or by a prospective employer in the United States. The sponsor initiates the process by filing a petition with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
2. Petition Approval: Once USCIS approves the petition, it proceeds to the National Visa Center (NVC) for pre-processing. Applicants should follow the NVC’s guidelines and consult the Consulate’s website for detailed instructions on completing their application.
Significance of the 221(g) Submissions
The acceptance of 221(g) submissions is another significant aspect of the Consulate’s resumed operations. This process allows applicants to provide additional documentation required to complete their visa applications, a crucial step for many whose applications were in limbo due to the Consulate’s closure.
Streamlining Travel Plans
The reopening of the US Consulate’s visa services in Mumbai marks a pivotal moment for many who have been awaiting this development. It promises a smoother and more efficient visa application process, facilitating travel and migration plans that were stalled by the pandemic.