Delays reported at Afghan consulates in US

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? An increase in demand for Afghan visas issued by consulates in the U.S. has led to significantly longer processing times.

What does the change mean? Visas are currently taking at least two to three weeks to process. Those traveling to Afghanistan should leave as much time as possible when applying for visas.

• Implementation time frame: Immediate and ongoing.
• Visas/permits affected: All Afghan visas.
• Who is affected: Anyone applying for Afghan visas within the U.S.
• Impact on processing times: Processing times have been delayed by at least one to two weeks, according to the Afghan Consulate in Washington, D.C.
• Business impact: Timelines may have to be altered for employers looking to employ workers applying for Afghan visas in the U.S.
• Next Steps: BAL will continue monitoring the delays in processing times.

Background: Delays are reported not just at the Afghan Consulate in Washington, but also at Afghan consulates in Los Angeles and New York. Afghan officials advise California residents to apply for visas in Los Angeles, New York residents to apply in New York, and other U.S. residents to apply in Washington. Those in need of visas may want to call ahead of time to check current processing times.

BAL Analysis: The increase in demand and corresponding delays in processing could have a significant impact on those traveling to Afghanistan for business. Those in need of a visa immediately should contact their BAL attorney. BAL will continue monitoring the delays and update clients as needed.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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