Recent experiences shared by immigration attorney Toni Xu reveal significant inconsistencies in the processing of O-1B visa applications between different USCIS service centers. The attorney filed the same O-1B case twice: first as a Change of Status with the Vermont Service Center (VSC), which resulted in a Request for Evidence (RFE) despite meeting all criteria, and then through consular processing at the California Service Center (CSC), where every criterion was challenged.
These discrepancies have raised concerns among immigration professionals about the reliability of the visa application process. Xu noted that while the approval rates for O-1 visas remain high, the increasing number of RFEs and procedural challenges suggest that the favorable conditions for O-1 applicants may be changing.
Key Details:
- First filing: Change of Status at VSC resulted in an RFE.
- Second filing: Consular processing at CSC faced multiple challenges despite identical criteria.
- Approval rates for O-1 visas remain high, with a 0-denial record over five years.
- Recent trends indicate a rise in RFEs and procedural issues, particularly related to Curricular Practical Training (CPT).
The ongoing inconsistencies in processing could impact many O-1 visa applicants, making it crucial for them to stay informed about potential changes in the application landscape. Need help with your immigration case? Visit QuickFiling.us for professional immigration services.
Source: Toni Xu