April 3, 2002 - For individuals seeking to revalidate their existing H, L, O, or P visas, the United States Visa Office processing time is reportedly improving. As we last reported on December 17, the processing time lengthened from 6 weeks to 12 weeks. The latest information received from the American Immigration Lawyer's Association (AILA), is that the processing time is now at eight weeks and improving. Individuals are reminded that the Visa Office will reissue an H, L, O or P visa only for an application made within 60 days of current expiration. Revalidation is not available to record a mere change in employer.

Along with the increase in processing time, the Visa Office reports an increased refusal rate. Photographs that do not meet the specified criteria are the most significant issue. The photos must be passport size photos (37mm x 37 mm) and show a full frontal view of the individual's head. The background should be white or light. Applications may also be returned if the picture was not taken within the last 6 months.

Another growing reason for rejection is lack of proper forms. As reported on December 26, the prior visa form OF-156 is no longer accepted. The new form DS-156 is required for every application. In addition, the new security screening DS-157 forms are required for all male visa applicants ages 16 to 45. These new forms can be downloaded by referencing the section entitled "Visas", on Berry, Appleman & Leiden's website www.usabal.com.

On a related matter, the Department of State continues to update its travel warnings information page at http://travel.state.gov with additional information relevant to international travel. Reference to this site will also confirm if visa and other consular services have been suspended for certain areas. For example, on March 22, visa services were suspended at U.S. Consulates in Pakistan serving the regions of Peshawar, Lahore and Karachi.

Sources: U.S. Department of State; American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA)