6/22 memo - Posts should only issue visas if a national interest exception applies. Confirms what we know - Government's position is 212(f) is being interpreted to allow banning visas even though language of statute limited to entries. That's a key point in our lawsuit. 12
The July 8th cable has details about how the posts are to resume processing. In 4 phases - Zero, One, Two and Three. Zero is total shutdown and only emergency and mission critical cases. 13
Sorry, that's zero/one. In Phase 2 posts should take about two months and for IV cases, start prioritizing immediate relatives. In Phase 3, routine visa services for all IV cases. Ks can resume BUT ARE THE LOWEST PRIORITY. 14
They have a separate phase in for the nonimmigrant cases. As posts reopen, F, M and J cases go first. Also, E, I, O and Ps get priority over other categories. In Phase 3, routine visa processing. B-1/B-2s get lower priority. 15
July 14th memo discusses medical exams and giving one month extensions. Says most people will need to repay visa fees. 16
This is amazing. From 4/22 when the immigrant visa ban was imposed until mid-July, only 14 national interest exemptions. This is mentioned when they talk about how much more efficient it would be to delegate authority to the consular officers. 17
"Requests for the national interest and law enforcement exceptions are expected to be rare" 18
One last thing before I jump on my Facebook Live - Consulates had to request approval for resumption of student visa processing. As if August 12, 9 consulates approved, 18 pending and 1 rescinded. END OF THREAD FOR NOW. 19
