DOS Visa Processing Improvements Posted Oct 29, 2004 ©MurthyDotCom The Department of State (DOS) issued an October 20, 2004 press release on their efforts to improve nonimmigrant visa processing at the consulates. The press release highlights the DOS's goal of facilitating legitimate travel. They report that they have invested in enhanced screening systems and automation for linking between the various federal government agencies. They have also increased their staffing levels, adding 350 new consular Foreign Service positions since 2002. ©MurthyDotCom The DOS notes that, despite concerns from the various groups vocal on the affect of delays in visa processing caused by security clearance wait-times, only 2.2 percent of applicants were referred for an interagency clearance during the last fiscal year. While many of us may have heard horror stories of people with applications delayed for months, the DOS states that most of the interagency clearances are accomplished in less than one month. ©MurthyDotCom Likely in response to lobbying efforts by universities and institutions of higher education, the DOS has given student visa processing the highest priority. The DOS has issued instructions that students and exchange visitors are to be given expedited interviews. ©MurthyDotCom The DOS reports that international travel to the U.S. has increased in the past year. This is good news, considering the drop that has been felt since September 11, 2001. DOS cites various statistics essentially comparing timeframes in 2004 to the same timeframes in 2003. The number of foreign arrivals has increased by 16 percent and student visa issuance has increased by 11 percent. Overall, nonimmigrant visa issuance has increased almost 15 percent. This is a positive sign in a country that relies upon and needs foreign students, workers, and visitors for the overall growth of the economy. ©MurthyDotCom The DOS emphasizes the need for delicate balance between its dual roles in screening applicants and preventing terrorism while, simultaneously, facilitating legitimate travel and trade by welcoming those for whom their first contact with the United States is through our consulates. © 2004 The Law Office of Sheela Murthy, P.C. All Rights Reserved
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