In a meeting held on December 11, 2020 with the American Immigration Lawyers Association, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) clarified the specific steps to take in cases where immigrant visas were issued by the U.S. Embassy and the visa holder failed to use the visa to travel because of the pandemic.
As per relevant regulation, an immigrant visa once issued must be used within 6 months from date of issuance. Considering the pandemic crisis and with travel restrictions, there are cases where visa holders failed to travel within 6 months resulting in expiration of the immigrant visas that are stamped on their passports. According to DOS, visa holders in this situation must submit a new DS 260 and must pay another immigrant visa application fee.
The unused, expired visa and visa package must also be returned. Medical examinations are valid for 6 months from date of they were performed and police (NBI) clearances are valid only for 12 months. These documents must be valid at the time of re-application for visas otherwise, the U.S. consular officer will ask for submission of updated medical examinations and police clearances.
Individuals who need assistance with the re-application of their visas with the U.S. Embassy may contact Tancinco Law, P.C. by visiting their website or by calling at 1 888 930 0808.
