Embassy administrative processing can be tricky and frustrating after you’ve applied for a visa. Imagine waiting anxiously for news about your visa application, only to get a confusing email from the embassy. Consular administrative processing is typically defined as 221(g) or “refused’. It can leave you feeling puzzled and wondering, "What does this mean?”
Zi Han, a respected Facebook group member, got an automated email reply from the embassy. This email was causing him a dilemma. He was curious to know if his case was undergoing a background check or normal embassy administrative processing.
We know embassy emails informing the applicant of administrative processing can be confusing. So we're here to help with a common question that's been causing a dilemma in dealing with administrative delays.
Summary of the Content of Zi Han’s Embassy Email
The consulate's email confirmed that they got Zi Han's documents but mentioned they needed to do some embassy administrative processing. The email noted it was Zi Han's duty to inform them of any changes in his address or phone number. They also recommended he reach out every two months for updates on his status.
Deciphering the Question that Caused the Dilemma
Now, let's go back to the “Is my case is a background check or just normal administrative processing?” question and check to see what the content of the email revealed:
Insights from Our Facebook Community
It appeared Zi Han's situation pertained to an immigrant visa in Pakistan. Our Facebook community focusing on embassy Administrative processing, 221-G, and visa delays provided this insight. Many connect with fellow GIL community members here and share similar experiences on their journeys.
The Difference: Embassy Administrative Processing & Background Checks?
What sets apart a background check from embassy administrative processing or administrative clearance? These terms make no difference. These are just meaningless terms.
You deserve to be approved, but it only boils down to them dragging their feet, which prolongs the duration of administrative processing. The email will state that you should check back every two months. That’s meaningless.
Nothing is going to happen in two months when you’re subjected to administrative processing. Maybe they’ll approve you, maybe they won’t, but it has nothing to do with this automated email.
The Key Question and Effective Actionable Strategies
There’s only one key question and two actionable strategies that count when dealing with automated embassy emails. Let’s explore them!
Only One Question to Ask: Do You Have Your Visa in Your Hand?
Should you fail to act promptly, there may be more embassy administrative processing delays. You can only return to the United States once you take strategic action and have your visa approved and in hand.
Don’t pay any attention to these automated messages. Don’t pay any attention to what they say about the Department of State CEAC system. Josh doesn’t think those are meaningful ways they’re communicating with you.
Actionable Strategy 1: Josh Goldstein’s Approach to Admin Processing
Josh detests embassy administrative processing delays as an immigration attorney with decades of experience. His firm takes legal action against embassies or consulates by filing Writ of Mandamus lawsuits. These lawsuits help people like you who've dealt with unreasonable visa delays causing immigration hurdles.
The consulate in Islamabad routinely imposes embassy administrative processing delays. Know that you’re not alone and there’s something you can do about it! At the time of the YouTube video, Josh and his team had filed three lawsuits against the consulate in Islamabad, Pakistan.
Within those past few weeks, Josh and his team were pushing to get all these people’s visas to be approved.
Actionable Strategy 2: Your Approach to Address Admin Processing Delays
You don’t have to sit and wait. If you find yourself in a situation where your visa is delayed, don't hesitate to take action. That’s where a mandamus lawyer near you can help you. We sue consulates by filing mandamus lawsuits on your behalf.
These lawsuits force the government to decide on your visa application. Waiting passively won't resolve the issue. Filing mandamus lawsuits against consulates can help you push for a quick resolution and maybe even get your visa approved.
Take Charge of Your Visa Journey!
Dealing with visa embassy administrative processing delays and confusing automated embassy emails can be super frustrating, right? Take it from our friend Zi Han, who got tangled up in the whole visa application mess.
But here's the thing: instead of getting lost in all the confusion, just ask yourself one simple question – do you have your visa yet? This is the question that matters most. And if the answer is no, don't stress!
You can take strategic action with legal assistance to speed things up. For starters, you can follow Josh Goldstein's lead and take legal action with a mandamus lawsuit.
Take the first step today and start pushing for a resolution by completing our online questionnaire. We'll look into your individual circumstances to figure out the best legal strategy for your case. We also help with completing DS-5535 requests, which can be linked to delays in visa processing.
Let's tackle these delays in immigration processing times together and get you one step closer to your dreams of reuniting with your family or coming to the United States. You've got this!
Posted in: Blog, Immigration Law