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May 25, 2020 at 01:51
Hi Simon. What is meant by misrepresentation of a material fact? I got under this case. But they told me to bring the original of the diploma and I can’t find because it was fraud. I apply too dv 2021 what if I win?
May 25, 2020 at 13:16
“misrepresentation of a material fact” is a legal way of saying you lied about something important – and could be open to charges of immigration fraud. Then your other comment seems to confirm you deliberately tried to commit fraud. You will be lucky to avoid legal charges. If you win DV2021 you will not be able to proceed because they know you are a liar.
May 25, 2020 at 15:02
Okay Simon
At embassy they asked me to bring the original paper and I didn’t go back. Now I see my status is refused is that mean I fraud or misrepresented document?
May 25, 2020 at 17:25
You didn’t take it because the document you have is fraudulent – correct? So why do you need to know anything more?
May 26, 2020 at 01:09
I’m not thinking about dv 2020 I’m thinking about next time dv or any other types of visa. is they ban me for life?
May 26, 2020 at 02:20
Possibly. That’s something you should have thought about before.
May 25, 2020 at 09:36
Hi dear Brit,
I saw one of your users wrote that the situation in his country Georgia is very good and their embassy started rescheduling. Do you think I could write to my embassy and ask to move my case to Georgian Embassy? I’m from a neighboring country.
And one more question. Do you think it’s a good idea to write to my Embassy and ask if I can schedule an appointment in their electronic system? I don’t want to be annoying to the Embassy with lot’s of mails. Do you think it’s sensible? I mean they say their visa services are closed now and they are unable to provide a date.
May 25, 2020 at 10:10
People with case numbers up to 25XXX are still waiting for interview dates, so don’t be sure that they will schedule yours better than in your own country. We’re in the same boat :))
May 25, 2020 at 13:13
IF you were already scheduled, you could contact the embassies to ask if that is possible. It takes BOTH embassies to move an interview.
May 29, 2020 at 10:29
Hello Mr Simon
I am from Liberia west Africa
I am a Dv 2020 winner I was Schedule for an interview on April 21 but because of this corona virus the embassy was closed in my country so my first question here is that . (1). Why the embassy don’t send me an email telling me that my interview was cancel ?
(2). When the embassy is reopen if they will reschedule me for an interview ? Because I did my medical already ,
May 29, 2020 at 20:56
1. I don’t know.
2. They might do so – but you should ask them.
May 30, 2020 at 22:45
Hii Emmanuel, I am also from Liberia ?? and I live in Monrovia. My case has been made “Current”. Hoping that we all get Scheduled sooner. Mr Trump has already appointed the new Ambassador to Liberia.
May 25, 2020 at 10:02
Greeting Mr simon I am dv 2020 winner and kcc have sent me congratulation for the document in February my question is after they say that I have given them all the required document again asking for the document my cn is 34k Africa region
May 25, 2020 at 13:11
Contact KCC.
May 25, 2020 at 12:24
Dear Mr Simon,
I was one of the lucky DV-2020 winners from CEE, Europe. I have successfully completed all the procedures and was given the visa at the end of December last year, with the expiration date in the beginning of June 2020. Considering the notice period at work, my apartment and other duties that come along with moving from one country to another, I planned my departure date for May.
Unfortunately, as the pandemic hit, my home country implemented a full lockdown on March 13th, i.e. closed airports, no international trains, buses etc. The same was done by the surrounding countries a few days later. As soon as the Schengen ban was first mentioned, I contacted the US embassy inquiring what the next steps would be or what I should do in order not to lose my visa in case this situation continues beyond its expiration date. The embassy was unable to provide me with any information, or if the visa could be potentially extended. I called them approx. once a week just to see if there were any updates.
Then the April 23rd came and the 60-day immigration ban with it. Again, I immediately contacted the US embassy and they confirmed that the ban also applies to my visa and I cannot travel which essentially meant my visa was invalid as the expiration date at that point was in less than 60 days. Due to this reason, I withdrew my notice at work, apartment and I didn’t continue the necessary preparations for the move.
However, two weeks later, the embassy contacted me that the ban no longer applies to visa which had been issued before April 23rd, and they advised me go if I don’t want to lose the visa for good. I specifically asked regarding the Schengen ban as there was and to date there is no possibility for me to go anywhere outside the Schengen area for 14 days as countries remain closed. The embassy said that this ban shouldn’t apply to me and that I can go. The situation wasn’t ideal, but I managed to find a flight from a neighboring country and organized for all the necessary documentation to be able to enter it including the negative Covid-19 test.
Two days before my departure, the embassy contacted me that they had someone with my country’s passport being turned around in Frankfurt due to the exactly Schengen ban but that person had different kind of visa and they are now not sure if the same would happen to me so they suggested to go outside the Schengen for 2 weeks. Impossible for me for two reasons: 1. my visa was expiring in less than two weeks, 2. there is no possibility for me to get anywhere outside Schegen due to travel restrictions still in place. I contacted the airlines, the connecting flight airport in Germany and Germany airport border control and all ensured me, I will be able to board the plane to the US.
So on Saturday, May 23rd, I managed to get to the neighboring country’s airport, got checked in all the way to my final destination in the USA, just to find myself not allowed to board the connecting flight from Germany to the US by the US Customs and Border Controls precisely due to the Schengen restriction. No argumentation helped, i.e. negative Covid results, coming from one of the least impacted countries, embassy’s statements or tears as the rules are the rules. The only way they would have let me board the flight was if I had been issued the 212f waiver by the respective embassy. As it was Saturday, I wasn’t able to reach the embassy and had to somehow organize for my way back home which was not an easy task to do as there were no more flights back to the original departure airport that day, etc.
I contacted couple of people when I finally got home and one them pointed me towards you for help. I watched your video regarding the visa extension and I guess I just wanted to ask if you have any experience with the 212f waiver (the embassy is closed today due to Memorial Day public holidays) and if that would be an option. Or if my recent experience qualifies for the visa extension or in other words if I have a chance to convince the embassy to consider me. I still have 10 days until my visa expires, and though the hope dies as the last one, I am becoming quite desperate and frustrated at the same time. I also wanted to share my experience, maybe it will be helpful in any way for someone.
Thank you very much in advance.
Best,
N
May 25, 2020 at 13:08
The embassy have given you HORRIBLY bad answers.
1. The ban on Schengen area ban always applied to you as it covered any travel from that area, apart from repatriation – and therefore impacted you. People have got around that with a two week stay outside the banned area before travelling to the USA.
2. The immigration ban from April 23rd NEVER applied to you as you were holding a valid immigrant visa.
3. I don’t know if 212f is a possibility (although the bad info you were told might help convince the embassy). Doubtful over the holiday weekend of course.
4. The embassy is technically able to extend your visa (although that means paying the fees again and having a new medical). Seeing how badly they seem to understand what’s going on -they might not even know that. The link below shows the relevant section from their “rulebook” – which may be worth showing them.
https://britsimonsays.com/extending-an-immigrant-visa-for-unavoidable-reasons/
May 25, 2020 at 14:37
Hi, N …wow! I just read your whole experience and sounds like a an adventourous nightmare, just wanted to show my empathy and wish you all the best. Sometimes when you share things you get rid of some burden. Hope you can make it. Good luck 🙂 Keep us posted!
May 27, 2020 at 22:35
Hello sir. I am from Iraq I’ve applied for 2021 DVLP in 2019 and i got my Enter Entrant Information but it shown on the website like 2020xxxxxxxxxx, and my confirmation number started with 2021 so please tell me did i make something wrong because it was my first time to fill that form,and how can i know when they choose me
May 27, 2020 at 23:02
Yes you did something wrong. You did not read the information that the results day is now June 6th.
May 25, 2020 at 14:35
hello brit hope you and and your family are doing good on the ds 260 social security section it asks this Do you authorize disclosure of information from this form to the Department of Homeland Security, the Social Security Administration, and such other U.S. Government agencies as may be required for the purposes of assigning you a social security number (SSN) and issuing you a Social Security card and do you authorize the Social Security Administration to share your SSN with the Department of Homeland Security? and there are two choices yes and no If you answer ‘No’ to this question you will not receive a social security card.
so we should choose yes right 2nd question on work section it asks about work number and there is a box with font apply so do we need the work number is it mandatory
May 25, 2020 at 14:49
Choose yes if you don’t have an SSN.
May 25, 2020 at 15:19
Hi BritSimon,
Thanks a lot for the great blog. I’m a DV2019 winner and I already have the physical green card with me. Last time I was in USA was in January to start planning my relocation and now I’m finally travelling there next week with one way ticket. After all the things I’m hearing about DV visas being turn out in the border, will I have troubles to enter USA? I’m travelling from a Schengen country.
Thanks.
May 25, 2020 at 17:23
No problem.
May 25, 2020 at 15:27
Hi Brit,
Hope you are all doing well and staying safe.
I am from South Africa and a DV2020 Winner. We have gone through the entire process, received our IV, booked and paid our flights for May and paid the necessary USCIS fees on the 18th of March 2020. Our country went into complete lock down from the 26th of March 2020 subsequently meaning my flights were cancelled by Delta Airlines for the 5th of May and no other flights available at this stage.
It has been a daily struggle trying to get information on repatriation flights and trying to get out of SA. Finally yesterday we received feedback from our SA government stating that they would allow us to fly to USA if we could submit proof in the form of a letter from the US embassy or other diplomatic/consular representative permitting us to enter under these circumstances, I have sent mails to the embassy and will try and call them tomorrow as well. Due you perhaps have some advise on who else i could contact to try and obtain such a letter? As always your input will be most appreciated.
Thank you,
May 25, 2020 at 17:22
Print out the immigrant ban – https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/proclamation-suspending-entry-immigrants-present-risk-u-s-labor-market-economic-recovery-following-covid-19-outbreak/
And refer them to section 2 – shown below:
Sec. 2. Scope of Suspension and Limitation on Entry. (a) The suspension and limitation on entry pursuant to section 1 of this proclamation shall apply only to aliens who:
(i) are outside the United States on the effective date of this proclamation;
(ii) do not have an immigrant visa that is valid on the effective date of this proclamation; and
May 26, 2020 at 06:52
Hi James, ek soek ook n vlug uit. Yeah check up on that link, think you will have to wait for the temp ban to be lifted. I don’t think you will be able to get on a repat flight with an IV but no green card, but check the US department of state, email them. Message my op nul agt twee sewe agt een vyf drie een sewe, sal graag wil chat.
May 25, 2020 at 16:20
hello brit there is a lawyer from san diago saying embassies will start opening by next week in israle and other countries based on the countries state if ther are lower case he says they will start opening by next week is these true
2nd question when i updated my ds260 in the confirmation page it gave me a differternt confirmation than the one i use to have but when i try to sign in ceac with the new confirmation number it wont let me sign in what is the problem
May 25, 2020 at 17:16
1. It’s just speculation – but probably about right.
May 25, 2020 at 16:22
the link for the video is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DWewhErdgzk embassies opening
May 25, 2020 at 16:30
hello brit when i tried the old confirmation no to sign in to ceac it works but on the confirmation page there is a different number and when i go to the interview do i need to take the first and second confirmation pages thank you
May 25, 2020 at 17:14
It doesn’t matter which one – new one is best
May 25, 2020 at 16:39
Hi brit the household did not put me on the census form he forgot to put me will this bea problem when applying for the citizenship thanks
May 25, 2020 at 17:13
No
May 25, 2020 at 17:36
Hi Mr. Brit!
If it were not this platform that provides us credible pieces of information, I can imagine how worried we would have been.
Once again, thank you so much, as I continue to follow the prevailing issues while we pray for a positive outcome of one of our only opportunities (The DV Lottery), especially 2020 Winners.
May 25, 2020 at 21:06
Hi. Will President Trumps 60 day immigration ban if extended once or indefinitely effectively end the DV lottery?
May 26, 2020 at 00:01
We don’t know if that will happen, AND we don’t know whether the embassies could schedule and hold interviews during the ban (hoping to release them if the ban ends before September 30th).
May 26, 2020 at 07:00
Thank you. I got concerned after reading this:-
https://www.daines.senate.gov/news/press-releases/daines-introduces-bill-to-extend-president-trumps-60-day-immigration-ban-to-support-american-workers
May 26, 2020 at 18:11
It’s just a bill. It doesn’t mean anything.
May 25, 2020 at 21:14
Hi Brit,
First of all thank you so much for all the time and efford that you put on us -this is highly appreciated.
I’m an European 2020 winner and due to coronavirus and low oil price me and my wife have lost our jobs. We are highly qualified engineers with +9 years of experience in the oil and gas industry. We also have enough savings to live for around 2 years without work. Do you think not having a job would be a reason for denial?
Thanks again.
May 26, 2020 at 00:02
No. You just get an I-134.
May 26, 2020 at 08:41
What could happen if I dont have the I-134?
May 26, 2020 at 22:30
You could be delayed – and that can lead to timing out. Silly risk to take.
May 26, 2020 at 07:45
Mr. Brit,
could you please advice on the following:
In November 2019, I have received email from KCC requiring from me additional documents, including Police Certificates…Now I have collected all Police Certificates..BUT
In meanwhile, AFTER I submitted DC-260, I was moving and temporary residing in another country till June 2020. In June, I am moving back to my Home Country.
Question is, should I:
1. submit (end of May 2020) Police Certificate for the countries listed in submitted DS-260 **WITHOUT** Police Certificate from the last country (residing there 8months) ?
2. submit Police Certificate for the countries listed in submitted DS-260 **INCLUDING** Police Certificate from the last country AND **without updating** DC-260 ?
3. Unlocking and updating my DS-260, and submit additional Police Certificate for the last country where I am spent 8 months ?
Thanks
Mihailo
May 26, 2020 at 18:20
Obtain the police cert for the 8 month country (as a precaution) but if it is not your current country of residence at the time of interview the PC is not needed.No need in that case to send it to KCC or unlock your DS260.
May 26, 2020 at 19:03
Thank you very much Mr. Brit …
Best regards !
Mihailo
May 26, 2020 at 09:20
Please sir is there a risk in contacting the embassies on numerous times through mail?
May 26, 2020 at 22:29
No really – just don’t do it very often.
May 26, 2020 at 12:45
Thanks you very much Simon you’re a very good and honestly person.
Now I’m regretting that lies. And I don’t wanna give up to American dream. Do you advice me to try in the future or take away from it for life.
Thanks again Simon I started to get help from you since 2017 got luck in 2020 lie get rid of it. Now I’m advice you young brothers and sisters never step on my back it’s not a good way. Tell the true even if you’ll approve or denial. Good to DV 2021 members. One love.
May 29, 2020 at 14:54
Brit please answer me
May 29, 2020 at 20:59
What more can I say???
Lying is a bad idea.
I don’t know whether your lies will impact you.
May 26, 2020 at 15:26
Brit, sorry for disturbing you, but when should we wait news from KCC? Nobody have heard anything from them for 1 week or more. Time flies so fast and last visa Bulletin will be published soon, but they haven’t sent confirmation to anyone. In previous week I tried to contact them, but office was closed and their mail answers are very general as usual. Do you think that my case number has real chance?
May 26, 2020 at 19:21
Hi EU35 ,I am EU33K and doesn’t received a confirmation email yet! ((
May 26, 2020 at 19:22
I called KCC and they said you should wait.
May 26, 2020 at 19:26
Can’t really understand whether we have chance any more. Did they say anything good when you called them? Like, we’re processing documents or something?
May 26, 2020 at 20:31
I can’t understand the chances either. They said you should wait, and that now they are processing 30K (plus-minus) cases. They couldn’t give much information about chances and nothing else.
May 26, 2020 at 22:35
Patience. We will see if KCC can schedule some interviews by the end of the month.
May 26, 2020 at 23:02
I called our embassy in Poland. Unfortunately they couldn’t answer pretty much any question I asked. She (the operator) told me that no one can schedule a regular visa appointment (it doesn’t concern U.S. citizens, they still may schedule a normal appointment). She didn’t know about any reopening and told me to monitor their website as the situation is still fluid. People who had their interviews canceled cannot schedule an appointment as long as the embassy doesn’t reopen for regular services. Does anyone know how the things are going in other european countries? When I told her that some embassies are going to reopen she was kind of surprised.
May 27, 2020 at 00:19
It’s the same story elsewhere. Nothing new.
May 27, 2020 at 02:49
Hi EU35, I am EU32 I received an email form KCC on March20th, they accepted all my document but I haven’t receive any email form that moment. I hope in the next month they going start to work and let see what happens.
p.s Maybe I can write very well but I hope you can understand.
May 27, 2020 at 03:32
Yes I understood. All we can do is wait and see.
May 27, 2020 at 04:16
Hey Brit .
I’ve applied for the DV Lottery 2021 and i just wanted to know if i didn’t win on 6 June should i check everyday in case anything changed or no all the results gets out on the same exact day
May 27, 2020 at 04:23
All the results are available on that first day. In some years there is a second draw for a small number of additional winners in September/October, so check once more in October/November.
May 27, 2020 at 05:28
Dear Simon,
I heard that embassies will reopen with USCIS offices in June 6 taking into account the situation in the country where they are operating.
I just want to know if this is true ?
Regards,
May 27, 2020 at 17:03
No it is not true – USCIS do not control embassies – the June date is about USA field offices.
May 27, 2020 at 07:08
Hi Simon
I read somewhere that USCIS plans to furlough many employees this summer if Congress don’t sustain them with over $1.2billion. And as we all know, Congress have more important things to worry about at this time. If it eventually happens, will it affect DV cases?
Thanks
May 27, 2020 at 08:05
Hi Lee Rua gd mnx.I’m also from cameroon , a dv 2020 winner.read yr interview experience some months bak.congratulations again.plz i will like us to hook up cuz I’m not yet scheduled but current for June interview.my whatsapp numba is 677193030 and email [email protected] 4 understandx.
May 27, 2020 at 17:05
Not in general, and not for now.
May 27, 2020 at 11:51
Embassy has cancelled all June interviews today. What the hell is going on? I guess same will happen in every country. Congrats to Trump, he managed to cancel DV 2020
May 27, 2020 at 12:06
Firstly, which embassy… And secondly it’s June not July so we’re not lost yet.
May 27, 2020 at 12:12
July i guess will be for rescheduling and August too, because they have to reschedule March and April. Hell knows what they will do in September
May 27, 2020 at 12:32
hey which embassy is that?
May 27, 2020 at 12:40
Nobody had an June interview. The 2NL letter have more than 2 month that are not released.
For what interviews are you talking??
May 27, 2020 at 17:07
Why are you surprised? The embassies remain closed by DoS order. So pretty obviously they should not be doing June interviews.
May 27, 2020 at 13:31
Hi brit i hope you are well.. i would like to know your opinion about the next link: https://www.politico.com/news/2020/05/25/trump-broaden-foreign-worker-bans-276510
May 27, 2020 at 17:09
Nothing happened. It’s not worth discussing.
May 27, 2020 at 19:10
Hi Brit!Hope you are ok.What is the normal capacity of interviews of the embassys?I noticed at the ceac data of May,that in Albania there are around 300 cases Ready for interview from number one to around 23k that was the greatest number set for an interview.
May 27, 2020 at 22:28
I don’t know the capacity per embassy.
May 27, 2020 at 19:47
ladies and gents. good news
Stay put and calm, keep an eye on your emails, band the kids from your phones LOL.
”
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is preparing some domestic offices to reopen and resume non-emergency public services on or after June 4. On March 18, USCIS temporarily suspended routine in-person services at its field offices, asylum offices and application support centers (ASCs) to help slow the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19). USCIS is following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidelines to protect our workforce and the public. For the latest information on the status of individual offices, check our office closures page.
While certain offices are temporarily closed, USCIS continues to provide limited emergency in-person services. Please call the USCIS Contact Center for assistance with emergency services.
As services begin to reopen, offices will reduce the number of appointments and interviews to ensure social distancing, allow time for cleaning and reduce waiting room occupancy. Appointment notices will contain information on safety precautions that visitors to USCIS facilities must follow.
If you are feeling sick, please do not go to your appointment. Follow the instructions on your appointment notice to reschedule your appointment for when you are healthy. There is no penalty for rescheduling your appointment if you are sick.
Asylum Offices
USCIS asylum offices will automatically reschedule asylum interviews that were cancelled during the temporary closures. When USCIS reschedules the interview, asylum applicants will receive a new interview notice with the new time, date and location for the interview and information about safety precautions.
In accordance with social distancing guidelines, and due to the length of asylum interviews, asylum offices expect to conduct video-facilitated asylum interviews, where the applicants sit in one room and the interviewing officer sits in another room. Asylum offices will use available technology, including mobile devices provided by the agency, to ensure that the officer, applicant, interpreter and representative can fully and safely participate in the interview while maintaining social distancing.
For affirmative asylum interviews, applicants must bring all immediate family members listed as dependents on the application and an interpreter, if the applicant does not speak English. Additionally, a representative, witness, individual providing disability accommodations or “trusted adult” if an applicant is a minor, may attend the interview.
For non-detained credible or reasonable fear interviews, individuals must bring any family members listed on the interview notice. Representatives may attend credible and reasonable fear interviews but are encouraged to participate telephonically. USCIS will provide contracted, professional interpreters for credible and reasonable fear interviews.
Naturalization Ceremonies
USCIS will send notices to applicants to reschedule postponed naturalization ceremonies. The ceremonies may be shorter to limit exposure to those in attendance. Instead of playing videos during naturalization ceremonies, attendees will receive a flyer with information and links directing them to the videos on the USCIS website. Under the shortened format, all legally required portions of the ceremony will take place.
Attendance is limited to the naturalization candidate and individuals providing assistance to disabled persons.
Interviews and Appointments
USCIS will send notices to applicants and petitioners with previously scheduled appointments and interviews. Those attending appointments should follow the safety guidelines outlined below.
Those who had other appointments must reschedule through the USCIS Contact Center once field offices are open to the public. Please check our office closure page to see if your respective office has been reopened before calling the Contact Center.
Visitors are limited to the applicant, one representative, one family member and one individual providing disability accommodations. The applicant should arrange to have their interpreter available by phone.
Application Support Centers
USCIS will automatically reschedule any necessary ASC appointments that were cancelled due to the temporary office closure. Individuals will receive a new appointment letter in the mail with specific safety requirements. Individuals who appear at a date or time other than what is listed on the ASC appointment notice may encounter significant processing delays, except for military members.
Guidelines for Entering USCIS Facilities
Visitors may not enter a USCIS facility if they:
Have any symptoms of COVID-19, including cough, fever or difficulty breathing;
Have been in close contact with anyone known or suspected to have COVID-19 in the last 14 days; or
Have been individually directed to self-quarantine or self-isolate by a health care provider or public health official within the last 14 days.
Visitors may not enter the facility more than 15 minutes prior to their appointment (30 minutes for naturalization ceremonies).
Hand sanitizer will be provided for visitors at entry points.
Members of the public must wear facial coverings that cover both the mouth and nose when entering facilities. Visitors may be directed to briefly remove their face covering to confirm identity or take their photograph. There will be markings and physical barriers in the facility; visitors should pay close attention to these signs to ensure they follow social distancing guidelines.
Individuals are encouraged to bring their own black or blue ink pens.
More information on visiting USCIS facilities can be found at uscis.gov/visitorpolicy.
Please also visit uscis.gov/coronavirus for updates.
“
May 27, 2020 at 22:28
This ONLY applies to Field Offices in the USA and is not news at all – June 4th was the date published. This has nothing to do with embassies.
May 27, 2020 at 23:27
Hello Brit please now that countries are trying to ease restrictions if my my country Ghana ease their restrictions can one quickly travel to the US.
May 28, 2020 at 04:17
We will have to wait and see what is possible and what is not possible.
May 28, 2020 at 02:10
Hi Brit,
My case status just got updated to ready from in transit. I was scheduled for an interview in early May in Sydney embassy but got cancelled the following day.. since then I kept checking my case status on ceac and for months it remained on ‘in transit’ but just now it’s updated to ready.. does it mean syd embassy is finally opening up or doing something about DV cases ..?
May 28, 2020 at 04:18
Well, it means they updated your case. Reading anything else into that is just speculation.
May 28, 2020 at 11:01
Hi Paljor, what is you vase number and your country. Seems you are from same
Country as I am. I am currently in Australia. Please do lets get connected to share information. Thanks. Pema
May 28, 2020 at 04:24
Dear Brit,
I’m a DV lottery winner and my visa expires on June 12th.However I requested for a a visa extension from the embassy due to the risk of travelling at the moment with my 02 kids. Below is the reply I I got from Embassy. Will they re-issue my visa. Kindly check below and let me know your expertise idea.
“>>
As mentioned before visas can not be extended..
The Immigrant Visa applicants who couldn’t use their Immigrant Visas because of the prevailing Covid-19 situation may get their Immigrant Visas reissued; applicants will have to submit the expired documents and an Officer will review each case to check the reason for not using the visa
Currently all routine visa operations have been suspended, please watch the Embassy website and contact our office after we start the visa operations>>,”
Thank you.
Chamil
May 28, 2020 at 12:08
Hi chamil, where you from ? Is it SL?
May 28, 2020 at 13:22
Their email is accurate and clear. It’s in line with what I have been telling people. What don’t you understand?
May 28, 2020 at 13:36
Thanks Brit.
May 28, 2020 at 14:47
Hi chamil,
Did they mention anything about the prevailing ban? If it continues till 30th of sep, they won’t be able to process the re-issues ?
Thanks
May 29, 2020 at 16:31
Hi,
They recommended to use the Visa if possible as they don’t have further information on how to proceed after the ban.
Chamil
May 28, 2020 at 05:39
Mr Brit
Still will there any chance to send 2NL for July interviews. Only 2 days left for the end of May.
Pls kindly inform
Thank you
May 28, 2020 at 13:24
I don’t know, but it is less likely as time passes. They will only send 2NLs if embassies are PLANNED to be open – and since no announcements about that have been made, that seems unlikely.
May 28, 2020 at 20:07
This is just my opinion but I think there is in attempt to slow down immigration in general, and it’s not logical so using logic to solve it won’t work. This isn’t just for DV winners, but all immigrants. In March Uscis suspended Premiuim Processing for all petitions saying they had too many petitions and couldn’t meet the 15 day processing time that comes with Premiuim Processing. Yet, a few weeks later they asked congress for a 1.2 billion dollar bailout because petitions decreased by 60% so now they don’t have enough apparently. Yet, they also at the same time said that H1B application receipts may be late compared to last years, because they are so busy. So they go from being so busy they have to take drastic measures to not having enough cases to avoid going bankrupt and also they are so busy there is going to be a delay, all at the same time. Their workload is (from what they say) 40% of what it was, they clearly need money and yet won’t resume Premiuim Processing. What is the logic in that? The only answer I can come up with is that they want to slow things down.
While there are travel and immigration bans in place restricting travel to the USA I don’t see the logic behind not doing the interviews, issuing the visas so that people can travel as soon as travel restrictions are lifted. You may argue that embassies are closed because of the coronavirus in that specific country but I think that is not true. In Italy (where I am) we have made such progress that pretty much everything is open (barbers, restaurants, bars) and from June 3rd, next Tuesday, they will allow tourists to come and travel in between European regions. If it is safe enough to eat out, go get a hair cut, go on holidays and welcome tourists… how is it not safe to go to an interview at the embassy? It’s not logical and the only reason I can think of is: they want to slow immigration down. If they did the interviews and issued the visas people would be ready to travel as soon as travel restrictions are lifted (not just dv winners, also non-immigrant visas). While by waiting to even do the interviews you won’t have many immigrants ready to go, even when travel restrictions are lifted, because they are going to be in a very long line trying to get their interviews. A line which was long beforehand, and now will be longer due to rescheduling and backlog.
I personally think it’s silly to think these actions (no Premiuim processing, embassies closed in countries where everything is open, etc.) are a logical response to coronavirus. They seem to me a deliberate attempt to slow things down. And that is unfortunate for those who have a time “limit”, like DV winners. That said, I hope most winners will make it and wish good luck to everyone!
May 28, 2020 at 20:30
1. Yes there is a general attempt at slowing down immigration. That’s not news, I have said that MANY times.
2. Visas cannot be issued while the ban is in force. Again – I have explained that before, it’s not a guess, it’s fact.
3. Embassies are closed because of a mid March central order from DoS. You may not agree with the logic in that, but it’s a fact. Again – I have explained why THAT is the reason the ban is largely irrelevant (unless extended).
May 29, 2020 at 07:50
@Mimi you have to understand where this is coming from. Think what the EU is doing not recently but for the past 3-5 years.We have Brexit?
Worldwide every country is moving to protectionism.
So no surprise there.
Even britsimon said in one of his videos that the economy is bad and may not be the best time to move.
I would suggest you to put your effort and frustration aside and get some funds to fight this thing to the end.
July 1st is your deadline.
I will ask you to reach as much as you can and find more people who can afford to potentially lose 1k USD and go for it.After all this will be well spend thousand bucks instead of complaining . Let’s sue the them!
You’ll see my name in the list because I am going for these bastards and this is the right thing to do.
May 28, 2020 at 23:20
Hi Mr. Brit!!
Does it mean the ban has been extended?
May 29, 2020 at 01:38
No
May 28, 2020 at 12:08
Hello Mr.Britsimon,
My case No is 2020AS241xx. I sent DS-260 on November 20, 2019 and documents on Feb 03, 2020. Now my case is current.
1. What shall I do next?
2. Waiting NL2?
3. When is medical examination?
Thanks
May 28, 2020 at 13:26
1. Wait.
2. Yes – but that won’t be sent while embassies are closed.
3. You book it yourself once you get the 2NL.
May 28, 2020 at 13:58
Hi Simon. Good afternoon, i hope you are doing well. Please am among of those who won the 2019 lottery and my first question is, with the covid – 19 pendemic allows us to travel to the State. My second question, will the various embassies opens for those who have not attend their interviews.
May 29, 2020 at 04:12
I am 2020 DV selectee from Nepal. I had a interview scheduled for March 2020. I also completed the medical. The interview is postponed due to the ongoing pandemic situation. I logged in to CEAC and my daughter application requested review and when I update the information. There is a duplicate application in the CEAC. I contacted KCC for this and they suggested to contact Nepal Embassy. As Nepal Embassy is closed due to Country Lock Down. I would like to have your guidance on this.
May 29, 2020 at 04:51
Once the embassy reopens the embassy will reschedule the interview. You will probably need to repeat the medical – but wait for the embassy to give you a date.
May 29, 2020 at 05:54
Hello dear brit
Do you think KCC they are reviewing the documents, sending an email regarding the validity of the documents now
May 29, 2020 at 20:49
Yes, some people have received updates.
May 29, 2020 at 07:11
Hello Brit,
Is it true that there are no interviews in June?
May 29, 2020 at 20:51
Pretty much, yes.
May 29, 2020 at 08:54
Hi Simon, I’m a dv2020 winner and my IV will expire on July. I can’t decide yet, whether to activate my status by traveling to the US and risking the pandemic/economy shutdown OR try to re-issue the visa and risking the ban! My question: Is it better to pay USCIS fee ($220) even if I will go for “expire/re-issue option” to show my good intent and discipline and hasten the process Of re-issuing or it has nothing to do with It and the embassy’s work?
May 29, 2020 at 20:55
Paying the $220 will have no affect on your case.
May 29, 2020 at 11:55
Hi Brit, I asked KCC about my documents I got this response;
Thank you for your inquiry.
After sending documents to [email protected], you will receive an automatic reply to your email. If there are no attachments, the auto reply explains there are no documents attached to the email. If there are attachments, the auto reply explains we received your email and are currently processing your documents. Please allow time for processing of your documents. Documents are processed in numerical order, based on lottery rank number. Once KCC has processed your documents, we will let you know if anything is missing or if we have received everything needed.
Due to the novel COVID-19 outbreak all interviews for the DV program have been suspended, it is undetermined when scheduling will resume.
Please monitor http://www.travel.state.gov for any updates and contact your DV embassy/consulate if you have additional questions.
In order for the Kentucky Consular Center to assist with inquiries regarding a specific Diversity Visa (DV) case, you must provide the Principal Applicant’s full name, complete case number, and date of birth in the following format (MMDDYYYY) as entered on the original entry. Please remember that the Kentucky Consular Center does not have the authority to tell you whether or not your specific case will be disqualified. Only a consular officer can do that at the time of your visa interview. Do not send any paper documents to the Kentucky Consular Center.
For additional information, please refer to the following websites:
Diversity Visa Website: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/diversity-visa-program-entry.html
Diversity Visa Instructions: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/diversity-visa-program-entry/diversity-visa-instructions.html
DS-260 instructions: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/diversity-visa-program-entry/diversity-visa-if-you-are-selected/diversity-visa-submit-your-iv-and-alien-registration-application.html
To enter the Diversity Visa lottery or to check for a selection notice: https://www.dvlottery.state.gov/
Does this mean the documents I sent are complete? Please advice.
May 29, 2020 at 20:57
No it means they are not processed yet.
May 29, 2020 at 12:42
Hi Simon. Good afternoon, i hope you are doing well. Please am among of those who won the 2019 lottery and my first question is, with the covid – 19 pendemic allows us to travel to the State. My second question, will the various embassies opens for those who have not attend their interviews.
May 29, 2020 at 20:58
1. Too vague to answer.
2. No interviews are being scheduled while the embassies are closed.
May 29, 2020 at 12:47
Dear Mr. Simon,
I’m a dv lottery 2020 winner (cn EU35k).
Is there any possibility to be scheduled for an interview or sholud i focused on what im doing right now and put aside the American Dream.
Thanks a lot.
May 29, 2020 at 20:58
It is too early to know what will happen.
May 29, 2020 at 16:10
Dear Brit,
In Sri Lanka the Embassy is open for operations. But when i’ve contacted them to ask about “rescheduling interviews”, they said each and every processes regarding the DV (Undertaking Pre-interview details package[Education certificates, Passport copies] , Rescheduling Interviews etc etc) is not doing since still they’ve not received further instructions regarding same.
As far as i know, KCC is functioning, as well as USCIS aslo yet to start. But i’ve seen in your comments, USCIS is not controlling Embassies.
**My question is, who is the “controlling body” of rescheduling interviews which are already in Embassy’s hand/already issued 2NLs but not yet interviewed?
If any sri lankan see this, i’d like to contact u guys.
[email protected]
May 29, 2020 at 20:16
Same situation sameera. received 2NL for May interviews and cancellation mail from KCC. Best thing is make this opportunity optional and continue the career until receive a good or bad news.
Rishanthan (Sri Lanka)
May 29, 2020 at 21:01
If the case was already passed to the embassy for an earlier scheduled interview it is up to the embassy to reschedule. BUT since the embassies are closed by centralized order, they are not free to open at the moment.
May 29, 2020 at 21:57
hello brit who is these centralized body that determines if embassies should be opened or clossed do you now is it a some section of the the us government ? second question when i updated the ds260 i received a new confirmation number but these new number does not allow me to access ceac the old confirmation number allows me to access ceacdoes these mean when i go to the interview i should take the old confirmation page with me not the new one third and final question should i call kcc about documents haven’t revived anything thank you god bless and keep you and your family safe
May 29, 2020 at 22:16
1. Department of State
2. New conf page is fine.
3. Yes
May 29, 2020 at 22:37
U.S. travel will soon be possible for some travelers from Europe says Donald Trump. President Trump says the U.S. plans to “open up” to travelers arriving from low-risk countries in Europe and elsewhere. This means many Europeans may soon be able to plan American vacations or business trips.
May 29, 2020 at 23:14
That’s good news, hopefully then the embassy’s resume visa processing too. How many vb’s for dv2020 are there left?
May 30, 2020 at 12:12
but that doesn’t mean anything for DV cases. embassies can start processing immigrant and non-immigrant visas. But they can’t process DV cases as long as the Ban is in effect.
May 29, 2020 at 22:47
Hi Simon,
Are DV cases processed by the NVC once it passes through KCC? Because it’s confusing when the status check shows the status as at NVC.
I assumed that KCC was to process all DV cases whereas the NVC was to process all other immigrant cases.
Thank you
May 29, 2020 at 23:44
NVC has nothing to do with DV cases. All explained in the FAQ.
May 30, 2020 at 05:09
Dear Mr.Simon,
My sponsor is a US citizen. But he lost his job because of this corona virus pandemic. Should I change the sponsor in the interview or can I still have him as my sponsor?
Thank you in advance.
May 30, 2020 at 16:55
Your choice. There is obviously some risk of keeping him.
May 30, 2020 at 06:54
Hi Simon, we are LPR with valid reentry permits living in Europe. With the covid-19 travel restrictions it is highly unlikely we can safely travel back to the US before August when the permits expire. USCIS mentioned when asked that a travel letter can be requested at a US embassy. Is this something that can be done? Also a returning visa SB-1 states that for LPR who are unable to return before reentry permits expire due to circumstances beyond their control could apply for SB-1, is this the way to go? Thank you.
May 30, 2020 at 16:54
Yes, an SB1 is possible.
May 30, 2020 at 12:17
hi Brit, I think I’m getting a bit psycho day by day…
I heard another attorney say that some embassies in Mexico, Israel are reopening. I wonder if you have heard about any cases where DV lottery applicants have already got rescheduled?
Any news from your Georgian user?
May 30, 2020 at 12:51
In Georgia embassy has cancelled all the interviews that were scheduled at the beginning of June, but they haven’ cancelled interviews which are scheduled in the middle or in the end of June. Like, everything is messed up
May 30, 2020 at 14:11
You mean the DV cases were scheduled or just the normal visa appointments were scheduled (like for B1/B2)?
May 30, 2020 at 14:16
DV cases, of course. And not scheduled, but rescheduled.
May 30, 2020 at 15:55
Good news !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hello Brit and thanks you
https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/business/uscis-to-begin-premium-processing-of-h-1b-visas-green-cards-in-phases-from-june-1-2020-5335901.html/amp
May 30, 2020 at 16:29
@Ks Isn’t it rather for people who are already in the States ?
May 30, 2020 at 16:38
Yes, it has nothing to do with DV cases at all. Not even those in the States.
May 30, 2020 at 18:29
Hello,
I’m currently stranded in India because of embassies shutdown due to COVID and 221(g). I would greatly appreciate your input on my case.
I came to India for visa stamping from the US in Feb. as my H1B got approved but Change of Status was denied. H1B was approved for 3 months from Jan – April. During interview I got 221(g) and was asked to submit employment documents to the Mumbai consulate. My employer sent the documents on Feb 19th. Since then no update on my case. My H1B extension got approved in April for 3 years (I-797B). I am on unpaid leave and in rush to go back as employer keeps asking when will your passport be stamped and all.
Questions –
1. Do you know when will US Embassy India start working again for pending 221(g)s admin. processing cases?
2. Will I need to book a new appointment with the new H1B extension or wait for current 221(g) to be issued?
3. How long in your opinion will they process 221(g) in this case? My interview was Feb 10th and documents were submitted Feb 19th.
Please provide any other input that is helpful. I am stranded in India for 4 months on unpaid leave with loans and fixed expenses etc. piling up. Thank you
May 30, 2020 at 19:03
I only answer questions related to DV lottery.
May 31, 2020 at 06:12
Thanks for the reply. Would you know when will the US embassy and consulate start working again?
May 31, 2020 at 21:05
No
May 30, 2020 at 20:28
Dear Mr simon.
Do You Think after the 4th of June the dep of state will spike about the situation?
Or we Have to wait the 23th of June.
I mean when do You expect they said something about the embassy??
Is the middle of June a resonable date to understand if they send 2nl for July
May 31, 2020 at 21:04
The 2NLs for July should have been sent byu the end of May. They weren’t, so it may be that NO interviews will be held in July unless some embassies open in the next couple of days.
As to when the embassies will open – I really don’t know.
May 31, 2020 at 22:18
Hi Simon,
Is it a hard and fast rule that interview can only be scheduled 2 months ahead? Or it’s just only a practice they follow and for once the trend could be chamged because it isn’t part of the law or rule?
BR
June 1, 2020 at 00:45
Its normal practice.
May 31, 2020 at 07:05
Hi brits,
I hope you doing well .
My docoment have been procced.
I got email comfirmation from KCC since late march and i was waiting for 2NL since that.
my Case number become current from may AS-22** .
I am living at Saudi Araiba and today the Government ease the lockdown and start back again normal life with domestic flight running again .
I just called the US embassy in riyadh and they tell me they re-opening staring from tomorrow with interview and everything and tell me to check with them tomorrow at ask about my case because the officer of DV lottery cases will be there tomorrow .
The thing that worry me that until now i didnt recivce the 2NL yet .
Should i contact the KCC and explain to them about my case as they may not aware of the US embassy in riyadh re-open
kindly advice about what should i do ?
May 31, 2020 at 08:56
That’s great news. I am in Saudi too and waiting for my 2NL.
I think the embassy will be busy dealing with the backlog first
my CN is AS20***
keep us updated pls
May 31, 2020 at 13:42
I think brtis said once before when your case number become current it doesnt matter the number of case in the interview.
it will be all about who is case have been procced and ready for interview or not
May 31, 2020 at 18:56
Hey Karim how about you join in with us in the group for KSA winners. Check out Adil’s post below for details.
May 31, 2020 at 13:09
I heard too that riyadh embassy opening from monday but i send email to embassy asked about reopening but they reply that visa services are closed and they still not aware when the services will open . Thats strange because on call they said opening from monday as u said but on email they did not mention anything about opening and also nothing announced on official website . im also in riyadh My CN24*** still waiting for documents confirmation .
May 31, 2020 at 13:39
I think they still confuse about what services that will open starting from tomorrow .
I will give them other call tomorrow to understand the situation and i hope everything goes well for all of us .
May 31, 2020 at 16:48
Dude it’s interesting to see a number of cases for the Riyadh post. Lets make a group, besides discussing it here, for cases in Saudi Arabia?
May 31, 2020 at 17:51
Fine by me ( :
May 31, 2020 at 18:55
Perfect, I’ve already sent an email to Adil. Let’s join that group and we could post anything that could benefit everyone here too. Lets have Karim join in too.
May 31, 2020 at 18:04
From Riyadh too!
Would be interested to join too
May 31, 2020 at 18:18
I’m already in one group with 12 winners from Saudi Arabia, send me email at adil.tanveer07@ gmail. com so i can any other winners
June 2, 2020 at 09:42
i contacted the US embassy in Riyadh today and they said the appointments for immigration visas did not resume yet. i was not able to get any information on when the resumption would be. it seems they reopened but with perhaps limited services. i mean at least they picked up my call.
do you guys have different info. pls update us
June 2, 2020 at 12:08
They replay the same to me ,
and tell me they still dont have any date when they will resume interviews .
And keep checking on there website
June 2, 2020 at 19:11
I know its hard, but all you can do is practice some patience.
May 31, 2020 at 21:06
KCC are aware of what embassies are doing. I suggest you wait until it is certain that your embassy is performing interviews.
May 31, 2020 at 07:34
Hi Brit,
I have seen the guides and videos about the DV Lottery a lot from you and also well searched this blog. I have a question which has been bothering me for a while now, I was born in India however I am a citizen to the Maldives where both of my parents (Mom and Dad) are from the Maldives. My question is would the application will be regarded is ineligible or what are my tries to get in-line?
Thank you so much in advance, regards and stay safe!
May 31, 2020 at 21:08
https://britsimonsays.com/eligibility-to-enter-the-dv-lottery-country-of-eligibilitychargeability/
June 1, 2020 at 02:10
Hi Brit,
Thank you for your prompt response, likewise I would like to reflect upon the initial comment “I was born in India however I am a citizen to the Maldives where both of my parents (Mom and Dad) are from the Maldives.” The purpose of the stay in India was temporary and was for only 11 days in where which I was born. As soon as we returned to Maldives we got the birth certificate and registration done and as I am native to Maldives through parents I am given citizenship. Question is will this be eligible towards chargeability?
June 1, 2020 at 02:28
Yes.
June 1, 2020 at 02:35
Hello Sharif, although you were born in India and cannot use your chargeability to apply for the DV lottery, you could still be able to use your parents chargeability given that they were born in an eligible country, such as Maldives. You would need to prove that by using that parent’s birth certificate.
June 1, 2020 at 02:39
Dear RH & Brit,
I am unsure if they have birth certificate with them now as they were born in rural areas of the country mostly known as in their respective island. I will have to cross-verify that as the issuance of birth certificate only started very lately in the Maldives. However, I do have copies of their Passport and other National Identity verifying it. Would that be acceptable? Hence I am not married to anyone yet, I guess chargeability through parents would be the only option.
June 1, 2020 at 04:48
You will need to gather as much documentation as you can get. You were very specific about the 11 days – so I assume there is some evidence of that. Also evidence that your family lived in the Maldives, and an explanation of why you were born in India. Your parents passports will state their place of birth, so that might suffice but you can gather whatever other evidence you think exists. A CO will make a decision based on “the preponderance of the evidence” meaning more strong evidence and documentation is good.
June 1, 2020 at 04:49
@RH – I had already answered and provided a useful link.
May 31, 2020 at 13:28
Hello Simon!
I got married in December which means i have a new husband and three step-children will this affect my green-card submission for DV-lottery 2021? And can I pick who to give the green-card too? One last question! Will me and my children get the green cards at the same time?
kind regards! ill be waiting to hear from you!
May 31, 2020 at 21:10
Once you have been selected there is plenty of time for questions – get selected first.