Non-immigrant U.S. visa applicants need to pay a visa application fee (also known as machine readable visa fee or MRV fee). This fee varies based on the category of visa that a person applies for. Prior to COVID, the MRV fee was valid for a period of 365 days. Since COVID, the U.S. Department of State had extended the validity of the MRV fee beyond 365 days owing to the shutdown of U.S. consulates and delayed processing of visas.

Visa Application Fee Paid on or After October 1, 2022

In a recent announcement, the U.S. Embassy in India has issued a notification that all MRV fees paid on or after October 1, 2022, will be valid for a period of one year. Keep in mind that the visa interview does not have to occur within the 365 days. It is sufficient if the visa appointment is scheduled within the 365-day period.

Validity of Visa Fee paid Prior to October 1, 2022

The notification also clarifies that all visa application fees paid prior to October 1, 2022, will be automatically extended until September 30, 2023.

Conclusion

Interview dates for the B1/B2 business or tourist visas are as far out as Jan 2025. We trust that the U.S. Consulates in India and in other countries suffering such extensive delays will release more visa interview dates. We will continue to share helpful information with our MISPL Bulletin subscribers.