Visa Processing for Third Country Nonimmigrants Canceled

 Posted on September 30, 2024 in Immigration

As of September 3, 2024, United States consulates in Mexico have halted visa applications from third-country nationals.  A third-country national is an individual that:

• Is not a citizen of the U.S. and is not a citizen of the country assigned to for employment.  

• Is eligible for return travel to his or her home country or the country he or she was recruited from if employed.  

• Has a direct-hire, personal service agreement, or personal service contract position.

• Is on a limited appointment for a specified length of time.

Generally, a third-country nonimmigrant is recruited from outside the host country and then relocated from the recruitment point to the host country. An attorney experienced in nonimmigrant visas can give you more information about this recent development.  If you are a third-country nonimmigrant with a visa in the works or you are at the point of submitting a visa, it can be helpful to speak to an experienced Addison, TX, immigration attorney.  

How Does Third-Country Nonimmigrant Visa Processing Work?

Third-country nonimmigrant visa processing through Mexico has been halted until further notice, which may impact those who have utilized Mexico consulates for their visas. A TCN visa occurs when a U.S. visa is applied for in a country other than the individual’s home country. Applicants may choose to go through U.S. consulates in Mexico or Canada because of the proximity to the U.S. border. There are several points to consider when contemplating a third-country nonimmigrant visa, including:

• Since processing locations can present unique challenges, TCN processing requires significant advance planning. This recent cancellation of TCN visa processing through Mexico requires alternative consulate locations.

• Any TCN candidate must make an appointment for an interview to complete the nonimmigrant visa process. With Mexico TCN halted, at least temporarily, this interview may need to take place at a U.S. embassy or consulate in Canada, such as Toronto, Vancouver, Halifax, Calgary, Montreal, Ottawa, or Quebec City.

• Depending on the country, a visitor visa to enter Canada may be required.

• If the third-country non-immigrant visa is approved, the applicant will receive instructions that include how and when their visa and passport will be returned.

What Is the Canadian Application Process for TCN Visas?

Those who are unable to apply for a third-country nonimmigrant visa through Mexico should speak to their immigration attorney to determine how to begin the process. Applicants going through Canada must pay a processing fee before an appointment can be scheduled. U.S. consulates in Canada are currently experiencing significant backlogs in processing times. With Mexico TCN visa processing closed, those backlogs will certainly increase. The closure of Mexico TCN visa processing may also result in additional expense, travel, and time for applicants.

What Should Those Who Are Affected by Mexico’s Halt in Processing TCN Visas Do?

If you or a loved one is affected by Mexico's halt in TCN visa processing, you should visit the U.S. State Department's website for current information regarding appointment availability and visa processing locations and then contact an immigration attorney right away. Stay informed regarding further updates or changes through your immigration attorney, who can assist you in looking into alternative consulates or embassies in other countries where TCN visa processing is still being accepted.

Contact a Dallas County, TX Nonimmigrant Visa Lawyer

When you have an Irving, TX, nonimmigrant visa attorney from John W. Lawit, LLC, these new challenges can be mitigated while you stay informed and up to date. We can help you effectively navigate the visa application process, regardless of what type of visa you require. Attorney John Lawit was instrumental in establishing the Immigration Section of the Dallas Bar Association. We speak Korean and Se Habla Espanol. Call 214-609-2242 today to schedule an appointment to discuss your immigration issues.