NVC Processing for Visa Interview Waivers

1. What is NVC Processing for Visa Interview Waivers?


NVC Processing for Visa Interview Waivers is a process that allows certain eligible U.S. visa applicants to apply for a nonimmigrant visa without having to appear in person for an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Depending on the particular visa category and the applicant’s eligibility, NVC Processing for Visa Interview Waivers may enable people to receive their visas more quickly and/or without having to travel or make special arrangements.

2. How long does the NVC Processing for Visa Interview Waivers take?


The NVC Processing for Visa Interview Waivers typically takes between 4 and 6 months to complete.

3. What are the eligibility requirements for NVC Processing for Visa Interview Waivers?


To qualify for a Visa Interview Waiver (VIW), applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. The applicant must have previously had a U.S. visa that was issued in the same passport, and was valid within the last 12 months.

2. The applicant must be applying for the same type of visa as the one previously issued.

3. The applicant must not have been refused a visa, or previously found to be ineligible for a visa, during the last 12 months (unless a waiver has been granted).

4. The applicant must not have any additional information that would require an interview with a consular officer.

5. The applicant must not be subject to any grounds of inadmissibility.

4. What documents are needed to complete the NVC Processing for Visa Interview Waivers?


The documents needed to complete the NVC Processing for Visa Interview Waivers are an I-864 Affidavit of Support, an I-134 Affidavit of Support, a copy of the applicant’s passport, a copy of the applicant’s birth certificate, a copy of the applicant’s marriage certificate (if applicable), and proof of any applicable fee waivers.

5. What fees are associated with NVC Processing for Visa Interview Waivers?


The NVC processing fee for visa interview waivers is currently $545. This fee is non-refundable and covers the Administrative Processing fee, Affidavit of Support fee, and the visa application fee.

6. Does the NVC Processing for Visa Interview Waivers process apply to all visa categories?


No, the NVC Processing for Visa Interview Waivers process only applies to certain visa categories, including immigrant visas for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens and certain family-based visas. It does not apply to nonimmigrant visas, such as visitor, student, or temporary worker visas. Please check the U.S. Department of State website for more information.

7. Are there any additional forms that I must submit to complete NVC Processing for a Visa Interview Waiver?


No, there are no additional forms that need to be submitted to complete NVC processing for a Visa Interview Waiver. The only required form is the DS-160, which is the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application.

8. How do I track the status of my NVC Processing for Visa Interview Waiver application?


You can track the status of your application using the National Visa Center’s (NVC) Case Status Online tool. You will need to enter your case number and the last four digits of the applicant’s passport number. You can also check the status of your application by calling the NVC’s customer service at 603-334-0700.

9. What is the difference between NVC processing and a regular visa interview?


NVC processing is a procedure that the National Visa Center performs to prepare a case for a visa interview. It involves collecting all necessary documents from the applicant and the petitioner, reviewing and organizing them, and submitting them to the embassy or consulate where the visa interview will take place. A regular visa interview is conducted by a consular officer at the embassy or consulate, and involves an in-person review of the applicant’s application and documents, followed by questions to determine eligibility for a visa.

10. Are there any special considerations for applicants with disabilities or special needs during NVC Processing for a Visa Interview Waiver?


The NVC does not provide any special consideration for applicants with disabilities or special needs during NVC processing. However, applicants with disabilities or special needs may be eligible for a Visa Interview Waiver if they can demonstrate their disability precludes them from appearing in person for their visa interview. Each waiver request is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Additionally, the Department of State has established an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Coordinator that reviews and responds to ADA inquiries and complaints from applicants.

11. How will my eligibility for a visa waiver be determined by the National Visa Center (NVC)?


The NVC will determine your eligibility for a visa waiver based on the information that you provide during the application process. This includes your nationality, country of residence, and the purpose of your trip. The NVC may also take into account other factors such as your past travel history, criminal history, and financial stability.

12. Are there any exceptions to the NVC Processing for Visa Interview Waivers process?


Yes, the following categories of applicants are not eligible for the Visa Interview Waiver Process:

1. Applicants under age 14 (with the exception of IR1/CR1 visa applicants sponsored by their US Citizen parent);

2. Applicants aged 14-79 (with the exception of IR1/CR1 visa applicants sponsored by their US Citizen parent);

3. Applicants applying for more than one visa category at the same time;

4. Applicants applying for an Emergency or Temporary Services Visa;

5. Applicants with a prior US Immigration history including prior denials or violations; and

6.Applicants who require a medical exam or vaccination.

13. Can I make changes to my application after submitting it to the NVC for processing?


No, you cannot make any changes to your application after you have submitted it to the NVC. However, if there are any errors in the application, you must contact the NVC and explain the situation. The NVC may be able to accept a copy of the corrected form if needed.

14. How do I know if my application has been approved or denied after NVC processing?


You will receive an approval or denial letter from the National Visa Center (NVC) after your application has been processed. The letter will explain the reasons for the decision and provide instructions on how to proceed.

15. Is there an appeal process in place in case my application is denied after NVC processing?


Yes, if you are denied after NVC processing, you may appeal the decision within 30 days of receiving notice of the denial. It is important to note that the appeals process is complex and there are no guarantees of success. You should contact an immigration attorney for more information about the appeals process.

16. Are there any restrictions on travel while my application is being processed through NVC?


Yes. During the processing times at the NVC, you will not be able to travel outside of your country of residence. Additionally, U.S. immigration law prohibits certain individuals from obtaining visas, including individuals who have committed certain crimes or have an infectious disease. It is important to be aware of these restrictions and contact the NVC or a qualified attorney if you have any questions.

17. How long are the results of the NVC Processing for Visa Interview Waiver valid for?


The results of the NVC Processing for Visa Interview Waiver are valid for one year from the date of approval.

18. Does the NVC provide assistance with completing and submitting applications for visa interview waivers?


No. The National Visa Center (NVC) does not provide assistance with completing and submitting applications for visa interview waivers. All questions regarding visa waivers should be directed to the U.S. Department of State’s Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Office.

19. Are there any other costs associated with obtaining a visa interview waiver through NVC processing?


Yes, there may be additional costs associated with obtaining a visa interview waiver through NVC processing. Depending on the type of visa being applied for, applicants may have to pay the visa application fee, the cost of any medical exams required for the visa application, and the cost of any additional documents needed to support the visa application.

20. What happens if I am not able to attend a scheduled visa interview due to circumstances beyond my control after being granted a waiver through NVC processing?


If you are unable to attend your scheduled visa interview due to circumstances beyond your control, you may be able to reschedule your interview at a later date. Contact the US Embassy or Consulate where you were scheduled for the interview to discuss options.