US embassy resumes visa processing on limited scale

by Our Correspondent in Dhaka

The US Embassy in has resumed processing of applications for renewal of certain categories of non-immigration visas – a process that was halted because of the global pandemic of novel coronavirus in March.

The embassy in press statements said that the process of applications that are qualified for interview-waiver renewal of F, J, M, O, Q, and, C1/D visas began from Sunday.

The US Embassy is, however, not processing applications for B1/B2 visas, (applicable for mainly general visitor). “It will shortly be opened,” said the announcement.

The embassy will process applications that are qualified for interview-waiver renewal of F (continuing students/spouse/children), J (exchange visitor), M (vocational student), O (Foreign nationals with extraordinary ability), Q (Exchange visitors – international cultural), and C1/D (Transit/Ship Crew) visas.

Qualified applicants need to log in and/or update their profile online at www.ustraveldocs.com/bd, and submit the application packet, after paying associated visa fees, at the designated offsite service provider at https://bd.usembassy.gov/important-notice-regarding-changes-visa-collection-center.

In order to qualify for an interview-waiver renewal, the application must be for the same classification of visa and be made within 24 months of the expiration date of the old visa, it said, providing the link of interview waiver checklist at – https://bd.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/70/2017/01/drop-box-checklist-revised-13117.pdf.

After the Embassy receives an application, the reviewing Consular Officer may determine that the applicant will require an in-person interview.

These applicants will have to schedule an interview when regular visa services resume, said the notice.

Applicants for H1B, L1, and certain J categories and their dependents covered by Presidential Proclamation 10052 can request an appointment only if they have reason to believe they qualify for one of the exceptions listed in the Proclamation, according to the statement.

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