Visa Status: Where To Check?

If you want to check the status of your visa application for the US, you can do so online via the US Department of State Visa Status Check portal. You will need to enter your case number when using the portal. You can also check the status of your application on the CEAC launch page, where you will need to enter your CEAC barcode and interview location. If your application is approved, your passport and visa will be available for pick-up at the US Embassy.

Check the status of your visa application online

Checking the status of your visa application online is a straightforward process. The first step is to locate the official government website responsible for visa applications in the country you are applying to. For instance, if you are applying for a US visa, you should refer to the US Department of State's Visa Status Check portal.

Once you have located the correct website, you will need to find the specific page or portal for checking visa application statuses. This is typically found under a section related to visas, immigration, or consular services. On the status check page, you will be prompted to enter your unique case number or application ID. This number should have been provided to you when you submitted your application.

It is important to note that some countries may have additional requirements or steps for checking your visa status online. For example, you may need to create an online account or log in with specific credentials. In some cases, you may also be required to provide additional information, such as your date of birth, passport number, or other identifying details.

If you have moved or changed your address after submitting your visa application, it is crucial to update your information with the relevant immigration authorities. For instance, if you are dealing with US immigration services, you should notify the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) of your new address as soon as possible. This can typically be done through your online account or by using a specific tool or form on their website.

Update your address if you move while waiting for your visa

If you move after submitting a visa application, it is important to notify the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as soon as possible. This is not only to continue receiving official notices about your immigration status but also because it is a legal requirement. Failing to report a new address promptly is a misdemeanour and could lead to fines, jail time, or even deportation.

To update your address, you can use the Enterprise Change of Address (E-COA) self-service tool via your USCIS online account. Alternatively, you can submit Form AR-11, officially known as an "Alien's Change of Address Card", by mail. Be sure to use black ink and sign the form, or it may be rejected. The form includes instructions on where to mail it.

If you are a green card holder, you must notify USCIS within 10 days of changing your address. The same rule applies if you have a temporary visa, such as an H-1B employment visa. If you are a U.S. citizen who has sponsored an immigrant, you should notify USCIS within 30 days of any change of address. While this is not a legal requirement, failing to do so could cause delays or other issues for the immigrant.

Remember, even if you move temporarily or are without an address, it is important to keep USCIS updated with your current location to avoid any potential issues with your visa application.

Required documents for passport retrieval

The documents required to retrieve a passport vary depending on the applicant's circumstances, such as age, citizenship status, and whether the passport is for a minor or an adult. Here is a detailed list of the required documents for different scenarios:

Documents for a New Adult Passport:

• Proof of address: This can include an Aadhaar card, bank account statement, or income tax assessment order.
• Proof of date of birth: Acceptable documents include a school leaving certificate or an Aadhaar card.
• Proof of identity: An Aadhaar card, certificate of naturalization, or a valid or expired passport book are all acceptable.
• Passport-size photographs: At least two recent photos with a white background are required.
• Previous passport (if applicable): If the applicant has an old passport, it must be submitted along with the application form.
• Other passport documents: Additional documents may be required depending on the specific situation. It is recommended to check the official website for a comprehensive list.

Documents for a New Minor's Passport:

• Birth certificate of the minor.
• Proof of parents' citizenship.
• Recent passport-size photograph of the minor.
• Annexure 'D' for both parents or guardians, and Annexure 'C' if the minor is between 15 and 18 years old.
• Statement on plain paper confirming adoption, if the minor has been adopted.
• At least two school documents issued in the minor's name.
• Other documents as specified by the passport office.
• Both parents or legal guardians must be present during the application process and provide consent. If one parent is absent, a notarized affidavit from them can be submitted.
• Current proof of address in the parents' name.
• Originals and self-attested copies of the parents' passports, if applicable.

Documents for Re-issue of Adult Passport:

• Original old passport: The applicant must submit the old passport, which may need to be surrendered if damaged, expired, or with less than a year of validity remaining.
• Self-attested copies of specific passport pages: This includes the first and last two pages, the ECR/Non-ECR page, and the observation page (if any). For short validity passports, the extension page is also required.
• Affidavit and police report: If the passport is lost or stolen, an affidavit (Annexure "F") explaining the circumstances and an original police report are necessary.
• Proof of address: This can include an Aadhaar card, Voter ID, utility bill, bank account statement, or a letter from the employer.
• Proof of date of birth: Acceptable documents include a birth certificate, PAN card, Aadhaar card, or school leaving certificate.
• Recent passport-size photographs: Two photos with a white background, taken within the last six months, are required.
• Additional documents: Depending on the reason for the re-issue, further documents may be requested.

Documents for Re-issue of Minor's Passport:

• Original old passport: The minor's and parents' original passports must be submitted, along with self-attested copies.
• Self-attested copies of specific passport pages: This includes the first and last two pages, the validity extension page, the ECR/Non-ECR page, and the observation page (if any). Parents can also attest copies for minors.
• Proof of address: Acceptable documents include an Aadhaar card, Voter ID, utility bill, bank account statement, or a letter from the employer.
• Additional documents: Depending on the reason for the re-issue, further documents may be specified by the passport office.

Documents for Passport Renewal:

• Original old passport.
• Self-attested copies of the first two and last two pages of the passport.
• Self-attested copy of the Emigration Check Required (ECR)/Non-ECR page.
• Self-attested copy of any observation page made by the Passport Issuing Authority.
• Self-attested copy of the validity extension page, especially for Short Validity Passports (SVP).
• Documents proving the resolution of issues that led to the issuance of an SVP, if applicable.

Additional Notes:

• It is recommended to refer to official government websites for specific requirements, as document needs may vary on a case-by-case basis.
• For minor applicants, the presence and consent of both parents or legal guardians are typically required.
• The documents required for a Tatkaal or diplomatic/official passport may differ from those listed above and should be verified on the official passport website.

How to use the CEAC Status Check system

To use the CEAC Status Check system, follow these steps:

Step 1: Visit the CEAC Website

Go to the US Department of State's Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) website. This is where you would have created your US visa application. Here is the link: https://ceac.state.gov/ceac/.

Step 2: Click 'Check My Visa Application Status'

Depending on the type of US Visa you have applied for, either Non-immigrant or Immigrant, click on 'Check My Visa Application Status'. Below are the direct links to check the status:

• Check Non-Immigrant US Visa Status – CEAC website
• Check Immigrant US Visa Status – CEAC website

Step 3: Enter Location, Application ID, or Case Number

Once you are on the page, you will need to enter the following information:

• Select a Location: In the dropdown, select the location where you went for the US Visa interview. If you selected a different location for the visa interview than the original location chosen while filling out the DS-160 form, and you get an error message, select the original DS-160 location.
• Application ID or Case Number: You can enter either the Application ID or the Case Number in this field. If one does not work, try the other. The Application ID can be found on your US Visa Appointment confirmation letter, written next to the field that reads "Confirmation Number" or "Application ID". The Case Number is usually given on a slip for Administrative processing or 221g and should be entered with spaces.
• Passport Number: Enter your passport number. If you submitted the form before January 1st, 2022, enter "NA".
• First 5 Letters of Surname: Enter the first 5 letters of your Family Name or Surname as it appears on your passport. If you do not have a Surname, enter "NA" or your first name. If you filed the DS-160 before January 1st, 2022, enter "NA".
• Captcha Code: Enter the code shown in the image to verify that you are a human.

Step 4: View US Visa Status

Once you have entered all the information correctly, you will see the US Visa status displayed. The status may be "Administrative Processing", "Issued", or "Refused". If you see "No Status", do not panic, as this is common for dropbox cases and can take up to 10 days to update.

What to do when your visa application is approved

Once your visa application is approved, there are several important steps you need to take. Here is a detailed guide on what to do next:

Review Your Visa Information:

Check the information on your visa carefully. Verify that all the details, including your personal information and visa specifications, are correct. Look out for any spelling or biographical errors. Contact the embassy or consulate immediately if you find any discrepancies.

Understand the Visa Validity Period:

Take note of the expiration date on your visa. Your visa is typically valid for a specific period, and you must enter the country before that date. For the U.S., an immigrant visa is usually valid for up to six months from the date of issuance, unless your medical examination expires sooner.

Travel with the Required Documents:

Your visa will be placed inside your passport. If you receive a sealed packet with your passport, do not open it. Carry the sealed packet, along with your passport and valid visa, to an immigration officer at a port of entry. If your visa has the annotation "IV Docs in CCD," you only need to travel with your passport and valid visa.

Pay the Required Fees:

Before entering your destination country, you may need to pay certain fees. For instance, when travelling to the U.S., you must pay the USCIS Immigrant Fee to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) after receiving your immigrant visa and before entering the country. Exemptions to this fee include children entering under the Orphan or Hague adoption programs, Iraqi and Afghan special immigrants, returning residents (SB-1s), and those issued K visas.

Understand Entry Requirements:

Even with a valid visa, entry into the country is not guaranteed. The authorities at the port of entry have the authority to grant or deny admission. Familiarize yourself with the entry requirements and be prepared to provide any necessary documentation or information.

Comply with Any Special Instructions:

Depending on your specific visa and circumstances, there may be additional instructions or requirements. For example, if you are a newlywed and your immigrant status is based on your marriage, you may be subject to certain provisions, such as filing a joint petition with USCIS to remove the conditional basis of your status.

Update Your Address:

If you move after submitting your visa application, remember to notify the relevant immigration services or authorities. For instance, in the U.S., you need to inform the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) of your change of address as soon as possible.

Plan Your Travel Accordingly:

Do not sell your house, car, or property, resign from your job, or make non-refundable travel arrangements until you have received your immigrant visa. Plan your travel with the understanding that a visa grants you permission to enter a country but does not guarantee entry.

Frequently asked questions