Since the COVID pandemic hit the Australian shores in 2019, we have seen a tremendous shift in locally assessed US Visa applications and renewals. State-wide lockdown announcements causing abrupt temporary US Consular closures for unknown periods of time, have thrown applicants into unfamiliar and unsettling territory. People applying for their first US Visa are left wondering, “Will I be able to attend the US Consulate for my visa interview?” For those who have returned to Australia to renew their visas and are eligible for mail-in applications, “Will the Consulate continue assessing mail-in applications now that they’re closed?”
When assessing where and when to attend a US Visa interview, you must consider the following:
- Is the US Consulate in your residential district currently accepting in person visa interviews?
- Am I eligible for a mail-in application?
- Do I need to travel interstate to attend a visa interview at a US Consulate?
- Am I travelling from a Red, Orange or Green Zone?
- Have I been quarantining?
- Can I obtain a travel permit to cross State borders?
- Will I need to quarantine in the State I am travelling to prior to attending my visa interview?
- Once I obtain my visa, will I be required to obtain a travel waiver exemption to depart Australia and travel to the US?
Staying abreast of the latest State border closures, colour coded zoned areas, travel permit requirements between Sates and varying quarantining procedures in each State can be extremely overwhelming.
Below, are some useful links to guide you in the right direction.
- https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/travel-updates
- https://www.ustraveldocs.com/au/index.html?firstTime=No
- https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/victorias-restriction-levels-covid-19
- https://nevettfordlawyers.com.au/sponsoring-employers-travel-exemptions-for-individuals-with-critical-skills/
- https://nevettfordlawyers.com.au/travel-exemptions-outbound-conditions/
How can Nevett Ford help?
Nevett Ford’s US Attorneys are able to guide and assist you through the process of your US Visa application. Every situation is different and we take the time to ensure that that you are well informed to make the necessary considerations. You can contact our lawyers in Melbourne at melbourne@nevettford.com.au or phone us on 03 9614 7111.