DOS Instructs Posts to Discontinue Use of "Application Received" Stamp

Calling it the "end of an era," the Department of State has instructed consular posts to discontinue use of the "Application Received" refusal stamp. Members should be alerted to closely interview clients regarding past visa applications, because notations indicating prior visa applications and possible refusals will no longer be readily apparent from an examination of a client's passport for the presence of an "Application Received" stamp.