Visa and Passport Processing Delays
This week The Department of State announced it is experiencing technical problems with its visa system. The problem is global and is not specific to any particular country or visa type. Some visa applicants will experience delays in receiving their visas. Others will be contacted to reschedule their appointments. The problem stems from a computer system failure which impedes the ability of the Bureau of Consular Affairs to conduct national security background checks. The Department of State does not expect the system to be back online for at least a week.
In order to avoid travel complications, our office advises against making any concrete travel plans until a visa has been issued. Applicants may also consider postponing visa applications at consulates until after the issue has been resolved.
