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AI generated Effective August 1, 2025, a third-party/representative passport collection service will be discontinued to ensure the safety and security of applicants' passports/documents. 1. Applicants must collect their passports/documents in person. 2. Please note: Passports for applicants under the age of 18 must be collected by a parent or guardian who must present an original consent letter signed by both parents. 3. Scanned or emailed copies of the consent letter will not be accepted. Premium Delivery Still an Option: Applicants may also choose to have their passports delivered to their home or office for a nominal fee of ₹1200 per applicant, at their discretion. For more details, you can refer to this page #Immigration   #USImmigration   #USVisaApplicantsIndia   #USVisaNews   #TheVisaCode

AI Generated U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), proposed a rule to establishing a fixed period of admission and an extension of stay procedure for nonimmigrant academic students, exchange visitors, and representatives of foreign information media. This can be found here . Existing Policy - I-94 for Students and Dependents Receive I-94 with Duration of Status (D/S) Historically, students in F, M, or J status and their dependents have been admitted to the United States with a Duration of Status (D/S) notation on their I-94 records. The D/S allows them to remain in the U.S. for as long as they maintain their valid status. For F-1 students, this means they may stay in the country for several consecutive years without needing to depart, provided they continue to meet the requirements of their status, such as maintaining full-time enrolment, participating in authorized practical training (e.g., OPT), and, if eligible, pursuing STEM OPT extensions. Unlawful Presence or Overstay - FMJ and Dependents with D/S i-94s As of now, the unlawful presence FMJ and their dependents is not triggered unless unless DHS (Department of Homeland Security), an IJ (Immigration Judge), or the BIA (board of immigration appeals) makes a formal finding of a status violation. 📅Is this new proposal? The Trump administration previously proposed introducing a "duration-specific I-94" for international students (F, J, and I visa holders), replacing the current "Duration of Status" (D/S)" i-94s. The notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) was published on 9/25/20 by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This can be found here .   ✅ What Happened Later? The rule was formally withdrawn by the Biden administration in 2021, after receiving over 32,000 public comments opposing it. This NPRM was later withdrawn by the ICE, DHS under Biden administration on 07/06/2021 . As of now, FMJ students continue to receive i-94 with "Duration of Status (D/S)".   🔎 What is Proposed? The current proposal by ICE, DHS is intended to establish a specific or fixed period of admission. This can be found here . A fixed end date (e.g., 2 or 4 years) Students would need to apply for extensions if their studies exceeded that period   ⚠️ Key Changes That Would Occur:                Current i-94 “Duration of Status (D/S)” Proposed Change (Fixed I-94) No fixed end date on I-94 I-94 would have a specific expiration date Student stay is valid as long as SEVIS active Must file extension if program continues Less paperwork during course of study More paperwork, costs, and USCIS processing University DSO manages SEVIS compliance Direct DHS/USCIS supervision U nlawful Presence only from date of Formal Finding by DHS, an IJ, or the BIA Unlawful Presence from the day after expiration of i-94. 📌 Summary: The revival of this policy change, it would result in increased compliance and administrative overhead for students. We will more clarity once the interim and/or final rule on the validity of i-94 that would issued to students admitted on FMJ status. We assume that this would cover the timeline required for completion of the coursework and post completion optional practical training. We also need to wait to know of the unlawful presence would be triggered from the date of violation of status. it must be note that Trump during his previous term introduced this policy and the same was struck down.

To keep your immigrant visa case active with the National Visa Center (NVC): ✅ Log in to CEAC ( https://ceac.state.gov/iv ) at least once every 12 months, even if you are not uploading new documents. ✅ Every login or document submission updates your last contact date. If you do not contact NVC for over 1 year, your case may enter pre-termination, and all submitted forms, fees, and documents may expire. ALERT: If your case has already been marked "Documentarily Complete" by NVC, you do not need to take action to keep it active.  However, monitor CEAC closely for your visa interview to be scheduled at the consular post. WARNING:  Failure to maintain contact for over a year at the NVC stage, or missing your visa interview, could lead to termination of your petition registration. In limited cases, it may be possible to reinstate the petition and resume processing. Stay informed. Stay on track. Don’t risk delays. Need help with immigrant visa processing or NVC submissions? 📧 Email:  info@thevisacode.com 📱 Phone/WhatsApp: +91.824.858.3284

For many families navigating the U.S. immigration process, time is everything. When a life-or-death medical emergency  strikes, the thought of waiting months or years for a visa can feel unbearable. Thankfully, there’s a narrow pathway available through the National Visa Center (NVC) , but it’s important to know the rules clearly. ✅ When Can You Request an Expedite? An expedite request  may be granted only  if: A visa is currently available  in your relative’s category (check the Visa Bulletin). There is a life-or-death medical emergency  involving the petitioner or beneficiary. You can submit documented proof  of this emergency. If a visa is not available  (i.e., the priority date is not current), unfortunately, the NVC cannot approve any expedite request  — even in dire situations. This is a hard limit under the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952. 📧 How to Submit an Expedite Request To request an expedite, you must: Send an email to:   NVCExpedite@state.gov Subject line:  Only your Case Number or Receipt Number Details of life or death medical emergency along with supporting documents must be submitted. 💡 Pro Tip: Your expedite request should be clear, urgent, and supported by medical documentation.  If the NVC deems the request valid and a visa is available, your case may be forwarded faster to the U.S. embassy or consulate for final processing. At our firm, we’ve helped clients navigate this sensitive and time-bound process with precision. If you or someone you know is facing a medical emergency and a pending visa case, feel free to reach out for guidance. 🫱🏽‍🫲🏼 Because in moments of crisis, clarity and timing matter most. #Immigration #NVC #USVisa #VisaExpedite #FamilyImmigration #MedicalEmergency #USCIS #VisaProcessing #ImmigrationLaw #TheVisaCode

📅 USCIS has confirmed the following chart usage for July 2025: ( https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/green-card-processes-and-procedures/visa-availability-priority-dates/adjustment-of-status-filing-charts-from-the-visa-bulletin )   ####   📌 For Family-Sponsored Filings (India)   ➡️ Use the "Dates for Filing" chart   ✔️ This means applicants can submit their I-485 based on the Dates for Filing if their priority date is earlier than the listed date.   📖 Chart to Refer: Dates for Filing Chart – Family   ####   📌 For Employment-Based Filings (India)   ➡️ Use the "Final Action Dates" chart   ✔️ Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) can only be filed if the priority date is current according to the Final Action Dates chart.   📖 Chart to Refer: Final Action Chart – Employment   ####   Visa Bulletin for June 2025 can be found here: 🔗  https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/legal/visa-law0/visa-bulletin/2025/visa-bulletin-for-july-2025.html   ####   Should you require any clarification you may reach out to our team.   🌐www.thevisacode.com 📧 info@thevisacode.com 📞 +91.824.858.3284 (WhatsApp)   #USImmigration   #Immigration   #TheVisaCode   #FamilyBasedImmigration #EmploymentBasedImmigration   #VisaBulletin   #FinalActionChart #DateforFilingChart   #DOS   #July2025VisaBulletin   #USVisaNews #ImmigrantVisaNews   #AdjustmentofStatus   #i485

We are witnessing a troubling trend across U.S. consular posts in India : almost all F-1 student visa applicants  are being issued 221(g) forms , requesting them to set their social media accounts to public  for further review. Unpredictable Outcome: In cases where passports are retained by consular officers, it typically indicates a higher likelihood of visa approval and a quicker turnaround time. Conversely, when passports are returned, past experience suggests that the case may take longer to process, and the outcome of the visa application remains uncertain. What’s more concerning: There is no clear timeline  for resolution. Applicants are not told whether their visa is approved or denied . This leaves students in complete uncertainty, forced to wait indefinitely often with just weeks before academic programs begin. 🎓 The impact? Students may be compelled to defer admissions , miss crucial academic milestones, or worse, be denied opportunities they worked years to earn. This appears to signal a new era of digital and social vetting , adding yet another unpredictable layer to the already complex U.S. visa process. #### 💬 Is this the future of global mobility, where your social presence holds equal weight as your academic record? #### If you need assistance with your U.S. visa application or 221(g)s, you may contact us on, 📞 +91.824.858.3284 ✉️ info@thevisacode.com 🌐 www.thevisacode.com #USVisa #F1Visa #221g #StudentVisas #SocialMediaVetting #TheVisaCode #HigherEd #IndianStudents #USImmigration #DigitalPrivacy #InternationalStudents #USVisas

In an unexpected development, the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi cancelled all visa interviews scheduled for Monday, June 30, 2025, without disclosing the reason in the notifications sent to applicants. Many applicants had booked travel and accommodation, some had already traveled to New Delhi, and several had completed their biometrics appointments, waiting for their consular interviews. These appointments were secured months in advance, and the abrupt cancellation has caused disruption, expense, and stress. We are unsure if all applicants have received the cancellation email . We strongly urge those scheduled for June 30, 2025 to: Check the email inbox (including spam/junk) of the email ID used to schedule the appointment. Check the “ Messages ” section of the visa appointment profile (U.S. Travel Docs account), where such notifications may also appear. Applicants are currently advised to wait 48–72 hours to attempt rescheduling through the appointment system or await further instructions. In many cases, if the consular section does not allow rescheduling of only the interview, applicants may be forced to reschedule both the OFC and consular appointments , causing further delays. 🎯 We hope the embassy will consider the inconvenience caused and offer clear guidance and alternate arrangements soon. If you happen to have your visa interview cancelled and you need guidance you may reach out to our team: ✉️email: info@thevisacode.com 📞 Mobile: +91.824.858.3284 #USEmbassyDelhi #USVisa #StudentVisa #H1B #VisaInterview #TravelAlert #ImmigrationNews #ConsularUpdates #USIndia #TheVisaCode #B1 #B2 #FMJstudents

If you are you planning to study or join an exchange program in the U.S, you will be applying for an F, M, or J visa . Please be aware of new screening guidelines  issued by the U.S. Department of State. These rules significantly expand how visa applications are reviewed , especially concerning social media and online activity . In this blog, we’ll break down: What the new rules say Why they’ve been implemented What this means for your application Practical tips to help you prepare What Has Changed? All FMJ visa applicants , including first-time applicants, returnees, and those under 221(g) are now subject to thorough vetting , including a review of social media profiles and online presence . This marks a shift from earlier policies where only select applicants were screened online. Why Is This Happening? This update follows two Executive Orders: E.O. 14161 : Targets national security threats and anti-U.S. sentiment E.O. 14188 : Aims to combat antisemitism, including online hate speech U.S. authorities believe early, comprehensive screening is more effective than post-entry enforcement. They're especially alert to: Misuse of U.S. academic institutions Online support for terrorism or antisemitism Potential visa violations (e.g., illegal work or overstays) What Will Officers Check? Consular officers will: Review all social media accounts , not just those you list Look for red flags like hostility toward U.S. values, support for violence, or inconsistencies Compare online content with your application and interview responses Even private accounts may raise concerns if perceived as lacking transparency. What If Something Seems Off? Suspicious content  ➤ May lead to refusal or administrative processing Serious concerns  ➤ Could trigger a Security Advisory Opinion (SAO) Inconsistencies  ➤ Might result in a second interview or additional documentation requests How to Prepare Set social media to public  - transparency matters Be truthful  on your DS-160 and in your interview Review your online footprint  - and be ready to explain anything questionable Don’t panic if placed under 221(g)  - it’s common and doesn’t mean denial Timeline & Impact Consular posts were instructed to apply these rules within five business days. Expect: Fewer daily FMJ interviews Longer wait times Delays  for those with unclear or incomplete applications Our Thoughts The U.S. government’s message is clear: visas are a privilege, not a guarantee . These new screening rules demand greater accountability and transparency from every applicant, especially online. Our message to you: Stay informed. Stay honest. Stay prepared. We’re committed to helping students, trainees, and exchange visitors navigate this process with poise, compliance, and confidence . If you're feeling uncertain, you're not alone, and you don't have to figure it out by yourself. Need Help Navigating the New FMJ Vetting Process? At The Visa Code , we’re here to guide you through this evolving landscape with clarity, confidence, and compliance . Whether you’re: A student applying for an F-1 visa A vocational trainee seeking an M visa An exchange visitor applying for a J visa Our team offers: Personalized case reviews Social media audit & guidance 221(g) support Contact Us Today 📞 WhatsApp : +91 8248583284  📧 Email : info@thevisacode.com  🌐 Website :   www.thevisacode.com  📱 Instagram & Threads : @thevisacode

After weeks of disruption, the United States has officially resumed processing student and exchange visas (F, M, and J categories). However, this restart comes with an important caveat: applicants must now undergo expanded social media screening as part of the vetting process. The official news is available here: https://www.state.gov/releases/office-of-the-spokesperson/2025/06/announcement-of-expanded-screening-and-vetting-for-visa-applicants/ This significant policy update, announced by the State Department on June 18, 2025 , marks a new chapter in U.S. immigration procedures-one that combines the reopening of visa services with intensified digital surveillance. Students must check the local U.S. Consular Mission news for updates on the resumption of interviews. What’s Changing? Visa Services to Resume U.S. embassies and consulates will resume scheduling visa appointments for international students and scholars. The Department of State earlier paused the visa interviews for FMJ students on May 27, 2025, to provide more guidance to consular posts across the globe on the comprehensive vetting of visa applicants including the social media presence. Mandatory Social Media Disclosure Under new guidance, the consular officers will conduct a comprehensive and thorough vetting, including online presence, of all student and exchange visitor applicants in the F, M, and J nonimmigrant classifications. Moving forward, all applicants for F, M, and J nonimmigrant visas must make their social media profiles “public”. Failure to do so, may result in delay or denial of visa applications. The guidance will impact the new student visa applications including the applications under Dropbox Interview Waiver program and those applications pending administrative processing. Fewer Appointments Owing to Extreme Vetting The U.S. consular posts across the globe must implement these vetting procedures within 5 business days. Owing to extreme vetting, we expect fewer appointments and which will discourage the students to seek admission from a University in the U.S. The consular officers are requested to prioritize  J-1 exchange visitors visa for physicians participating in a medical program and Student applicants looking to pursue a course in the U.S. University that currently hosts 15% or less international students in total. Ivy League Schools are being exempted from this threshold. The Visa Code’s Take We’re entering a new phase where visa decisions may be influenced not just by legal violations, but also by digital impressions.This places immense pressure on students to sanitize or even self-censor their online identities. It’s no longer enough to be eligible - you must also be ideologically 'acceptable'. Students visa applicants must: Avoid political memes or controversial humor, Refrain from posting emotionally charged political content, Seek legal help if you think you will be questioned about past online activity. It must be noted that non-compliance or evasion  , like refusing to provide access, can be interpreted as a red flag or lack of transparency, even if no wrongdoing exists.  Unless a court issues an order blocking the implementation of this guidance on privacy grounds, students are required to comply with the new social media transparency requirements being enforced by U.S. consular missions worldwide under the direction of the U.S. Department of State. What Applicants Should Do Now Audit your online presence - Remove or hide content that could be misinterpreted as radical or anti-American. Prepare to explain past posts - Officers may question past likes, shares, or comments. Even sarcasm or activism may require context. Stay updated through schools or immigration attorneys - Many universities are now issuing guidance on handling this new screening process. Final Word The U.S. reopening its doors to foreign students is welcome news, but it's a conditional welcome , shaped by new political and security realities. As the lines between public discourse and immigration law continue to blur, international applicants must navigate not just forms and interviews, but also the digital footprints of their past . Need Guidance? Contact Us The current visa guidelines are more complex than ever. With heightened scrutiny of applicants’ social media history , political expression , and ideological leanings , even a well-qualified candidate can face delays or denials based on misinterpreted online content. Navigating these evolving standards alone can be overwhelming. That’s why having a qualified immigration expert by your side  isn’t just helpful, it can significantly improve your chances of success. At The Visa Code, we specialize in U.S. visa and consular matters. Our team understands how these policies are applied in practice and can help you: Prepare and present your case clearly Avoid common pitfalls in digital vetting Respond effectively to 221(g)s or evaluate reapplication post a refusal Contact Us Today 🌐 Website:   www.thevisacode.com 📧 Email:   info@thevisacode.com 📱 WhatsApp:  +91 8248583284

AI generated Great news for international students ! The U.S. Department of State has officially announced that F-1, M-1, and J-1 visa interviews will soon resume at U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide. This is a critical update for students planning to begin or continue their studies in the United States for the upcoming academic term. This update can be found here . Earlier we had reported that FMJ Student Visa Interviews were paused on May 27, 2025 awaiting guidance from the Dept of State. The previous updated can be found here . Key Update – Social Media Transparency Requirement To enhance the vetting process: All F, M, and J visa applicants must set their social media profiles to "public" during the application process. This new requirement allows consular officers to review your online presence as part of the visa screening process. 📅 What You Should Do Now: Visit your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate website regularly for updates and appointment availability. Ensure your social media privacy settings are adjusted to meet the new guidelines. Prepare all necessary documents and stay informed about current processing timelines. 🧑‍🎓 Who Is Affected? This announcement applies to: F-1 Visa: Academic students M-1 Visa: Vocational students J-1 Visa: Exchange visitors, including research scholars, professors, and students 📣 Pro Tip: Book your appointment as early as possible. Slots may fill up fast as visa services ramp up. If you need assistance with your student visa application, you may reach our to team on info#thevisacode.com or whatsapp on +91.824.858.3284. #USStudentVisa   #F1Visa   #J1Visa   #M1Visa   #StudentVisa2025   #USVisaUpdates   #StudyInUSA   #VisaInterviewTips   #InternationalStudents   #USConsulateNews   #TheVisaCode   #USImmigration   #Immigration   #USConsulateIndia   #USStudentsVisaInterviews