Summer Shortage of Visa Application Appointments for TCNs at U.S. Consulates in Canada

The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has confirmed that the U.S. consular posts in Canada have an extremely limited number of appointments available this summer for third-country nationals (TCNs) applying for nonimmigrant visas. To that end, the DOS is urging visa applicants, other than Canadian nationals, to seek visa appointments elsewhere until the fall.

Summer is ‘Peak Season’ for Visa Applications in Canada

The U.S. consulates in Canada routinely process nonimmigrant visa applications for TCNs. Recently, however, many TCNs have reported problems with obtaining visa appointments at these consulates. The DOS notes that this is due to the high demand for nonimmigrant visa appointment slots in the months of June, July, and August. The U.S. consulates in Canada are expected to have more availability for TCN applicants this fall.

Existing Appointments Unaffected, Emergency Appointments Considered

This notice is related to the availability of new appointment slots, and does not alter existing appointments previously booked. A foreign national who has an emergency need for a visa appointment in Canada during the summer months may make a request for such an appointment through the embassy’s website. Such discretionary requests, however, will generally be granted only if accompanied by evidence of a truly urgent need, such as due to a medical, family, or business emergency.

Conclusion

The shortage of appointment slots for TCNs at the U.S. consulates in Canada is a good illustration of the need to make travel plans well in advance, particularly during peak travel seasons. Those with questions about the visa application process are welcome to consult with a Murthy Law Firm attorney.

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