PIMS Likely to Cause Delays for H1Bs and Others
Posted Feb 15, 2008
©MurthyDotCom
At the Murthy Law Firm, we have been receiving reports of substantial delays in visa issuance at consulates abroad due to the recent implementation of the Petition Information Management Service (PIMS). PIMS was reported to readers in our December 28, 2007 MurthyBulletin article PIMS Verification Update, available on MurthyDotCom. The PIMS system applies to certain nonimmigrant visa applications like the H, L, O, P, and Q, at U.S. consulates abroad. These applications have to be verified through PIMS before a visa can be issued. This is currently creating delays of several weeks in many cases.
©MurthyDotCom
Delays Likely, Confirms U.S. Consulate in Chennai
©MurthyDotCom
Our affiliate office in Chennai, India, Murthy Immigration Services, Pvt. Limited, communicated with the Nonimmigrant Visa Section of the U.S. Consulate in Chennai regarding visa delays caused by PIMS. The consulate confirmed that the recent change in processing H and L visas is causing considerable delays in many cases. (The consulate did not reference the O, P, and Q visas, presumably since the majority of applications processed at Chennai are in the H and L categories.) It was noted that, as soon as the database is updated, the consulate processes the relevant visa automatically.
©MurthyDotCom
The spokesperson for the consulate was unable to predict any timeframe for the resolution of these delays. Most cases take about 5 to 12 extra work days to be resolved, but some can take much longer if the USCIS has not updated the information promptly in the database for verification by consular officers.
©MurthyDotCom
Allow Extra Time in Cases Requiring PIMS Verification
©MurthyDotCom
In light of these delays, it is best for individuals applying in the H, L, O, P, and Q categories to allow extra time for the visa application process. Individuals who have received advance parole (AP) based upon the filing of an I-485, Application for Adjustment of Status, may choose to use that document for travel to avoid the delays of visa application at the consulates. Persons who do not have AP, but who are eligible to request it, may choose to do so in order to facilitate future travel.
©MurthyDotCom
Conclusion
©MurthyDotCom
Delays of several weeks in visa issuance are often quite disruptive, both for individuals and their employers. In a global economy, travel is often necessary for business purposes, and not simply an optional luxury. The PIMS system needs to become more efficient in order to reduce disruption and facilitate necessary foreign travel.