DOS Ends 20-Day "Hold" Policy

181606Z OCT 02

FM SECSTATE WASHDC

TO ALL DIPLOMATIC AND CONSULAR POSTS PRIORITY

SPECIAL EMBASSY PROGRAM PRIORITY

AMEMBASSY KABUL PRIORITY

AMEMBASSY DUSHANBE PRIORITY

AMEMBASSY ABIDJAN PRIORITY

UNCLAS STATE 205630

FOR CONSULAR SECTION CHIEFS

E.O. 12958: N/A

TAGS: CVIS

SUBJECT: TERMINATION OF 20-DAY HOLD PROCEDURE FOR CERTAIN NONIMMIGRANT VISA APPLICATIONS

REF: A) 01STATE 196355 B) 01STATE 109933 C) STATE 15702

1. Effective immediately, the interim 20-day hold procedure for certain nonimmigrant visa applications, as described in Ref A, is terminated. This applies to all future applications as well as to those now at any point in the 20-day hold queue. All such cases may immediately be processed to conclusion, provided the case is not subject to any other special clearance procedures.

2. All other special clearance procedures, as described in Ref B, remain in effect and unchanged. Cases subject to Visas Condor clearance procedures, as described in Ref C, also are not affected by this change and must continue to be processed in accordance with Ref C instructions.

3. As stated in Ref A, the 20-day hold was an interim measure, implemented in the wake of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Enhanced interagency data sharing and additional clearance procedures implemented since then have obviated the need for continuing this interim measure.

4. Department is continually reviewing and evaluating security related clearance procedures. We recognize these measures have increased posts' workloads. We are making every effort to design and as necessary revise these procedures in a way that maximizes border security with the least possible impact on posts. Your efforts to implement these measures and enhance border security are greatly appreciated.

5. Minimize considered.

POWELL