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Consular Security Clearances affecting U.S. Visa Applications to visit Fermilab

Average wait times for U.S. visas currently are lengthening, largely as a result of the processing of certain “security clearances” by U.S. agencies other than the Consulate itself.

As background, visa applications by non-US citizen employees of Fermilab usually undergo “security clearance” (also called “administrative processing”) prior to the visa issuance. A security clearance request can be triggered by the type of work performed by the visa applicant (e.g. scientist/physicist) or by the place of work (e.g. Fermilab).  Each security clearance involves a review of queries submitted to numerous state, federal and international agencies, in a process that is managed by the FBI. There is no timeline for completion of the security clearance, and (by law) there is no way to expedite the process.

The U.S. Department of State has advised the Visa Office that the security clearances alone are averaging up to 30 days. This means that, more often than not, more than 3 or 4 weeks will pass between the date of the applicant’s interview and the date of visa issuance.

Almost all of Fermilab’s non-U.S. citizen employees and Users’ are affected by the longer processing times.

Visa applicants should make sure that they provide all the paperwork required for their visas, including a resume and brief description of their work activities that a non-scientist can understand. Check the U.S. Consulate's Web site prior to applying to find out what paperwork is required. Do not rely on past experience - processes change. Any applicant whose visa application has been pending for at least 3 months should notify the Visa Office.

Questions? Comments? Contact the Users’ Office!