Applicant Background
The applicant traveled to India in December for an H1B visa interview with an initial schedule in mid-December. However, due to an unexpected postponement communicated by USCIS on the day of arrival, the interview was rescheduled to March. This led to an extended stay in India for nearly three months before finally attending the interview in Hyderabad.
Visa Interview Experience (H1B – Hyderabad Consulate)
Original Travel Date: December 7
Initial VAC Date: December 9
Initial Interview Date: December 15
Rescheduled Interview Date: March 9
Location: Hyderabad, India
The applicant attended the rescheduled interview after a prolonged wait. The process was document-focused, with the Visa Officer carefully reviewing petition-related paperwork.
Interview Conversation
VO: Can you provide your documents? (I-797, LCA, I-129, and tax returns)
Applicant: [Submitted all requested documents]
VO: Do you have the previous petition LCA?
Applicant: [Searched documents for several minutes] I’m sorry, I do not have it with me right now.
(The Visa Officer reviewed the available documents and proceeded with the case.)
VO: Please email the previous petition LCA.
Applicant: Yes, I will do that.
(The Visa Officer retained the passport and returned all other documents.)
Post-Interview Experience
Following the interview, the applicant complied with the request and submitted the required document via email.
Status Timeline:
- Initial status updated to Refused (commonly seen in 221(g) administrative processing cases)
- Within two days, status changed to Approved
- Awaiting final update to Issued at the time of writing
The applicant is currently waiting for the visa to be issued in order to book travel back to the United States.
Key Takeaways
- Carry all petition-related documents, including previous LCAs
- A 221(g) refusal is often temporary and part of administrative processing
- Promptly submitting requested documents can lead to quick approval
- Stay prepared for unexpected delays or rescheduling
Final Note
Even if additional documents are requested during your H1B visa interview, timely compliance and proper documentation can lead to a successful outcome. If you need expert assistance, contact LeSo.
