Consulates Issuing Visa Stamps for Shortened Validity Periods

The US Department of State has acknowledged a recent trend in consular posts issuing “limited-validity” visas, with shorter validity dates and fewer permitted entries permitted. A revised Foreign Affairs Manual provision from January 24, 2018, provides consular officials greater discretion to issue visas for less than the full duration of validity when an applicant’s long-term ties to their home residence are in question. The Chennai post, in particular, has been issuing visas for shorter duration in recent months, as reported by US immigration lawyers. Travelers should pay attention to the duration of their visa stamps and inform EIG accordingly.