After applying for a US visa, tracking its status is crucial—whether you’re from India, Pakistan, or any other country. This guide explains:
✔ How to check US visa status online (CEAC portal)
✔ Tracking via embassy/consulate
✔ What different statuses mean (Administrative Processing, Issued, Refused)
✔ Troubleshooting common issues
How to Check US Visa Status Online (CEAC Portal)
Step 1: Visit the CEAC Status Check Portal
Step 2: Enter Required Details
- DS-160 Application ID (starts with AA00)
- Location (select the US embassy where you applied)
Step 3: Check Status
Possible statuses:
✅ “Issued” – Visa approved, passport ready for pickup.
🔄 “Administrative Processing” – Under review (may take weeks/months).
❌ “Refused” – Visa denied (check for 221(g) slip details).
Note:
- Status updates once per day (check in the morning US time).
- If status doesn’t change for weeks, contact the embassy.
Tracking via US Embassy/Consulate
For Applicants in India
- VAC Helpline: +91-120-484-6400
- Email: support-india@ustraveldocs.com
- Passport Tracking: India US Visa Status
For Applicants in Pakistan
- Call Center: +92-51-843-1300
- Email: support-pakistan@ustraveldocs.com
- Passport Tracking: Pakistan US Visa Status
Bangladesh
- Visa pickup is at the Gerry’s Office—track via USTravelDocs
- CEAC shows final decision
UAE (for Indian/Pakistani expats)
- Use https://www.ustraveldocs.com/ae
- Some expats can receive the passport at Aramex offices.
- Dubai embassy is strict—check via CEAC if under admin processing.
Saudi Arabia
- Check visa status via:
Here’s what each status update means on CEAC:
For Other Countries
- Find your local US embassy website here.
What Do Different Visa Statuses Mean?
| Status | Meaning | Next Steps |
|---|---|---|
| “No Status” | Application not yet processed. | Wait 3–5 days after interview. |
| “Administrative Processing” (AP) | Additional checks needed. | Wait or submit requested documents. |
| “Issued” | Visa approved. | Passport will be returned in 5–7 days. |
| “Refused” (Under 221g) | Pending documents. | Submit missing papers ASAP. |
| “Refused” (Final) | Visa denied. | Reapply after addressing issues. |
Check US Visa Status via USTravelDocs
USTravelDocs is the primary visa appointment and tracking portal for US embassies in India, Pakistan, UAE, Bangladesh, and many other countries.
What you can check here:
- Appointment status
- Document delivery/pickup
- Passport tracking
- MRV payment confirmation
Steps to Check on USTravelDocs:
- Visit the country-specific USTravelDocs portal. Examples:
- Log in using your email ID and password.
- Select “Track My Passport” or “Check Status”.
- Enter your passport number and interview location.
📌 Note: Only after attending the interview will your status be available here.
5. Troubleshooting Common Issues
“No Status Found” Error
- Fix: Wait 48 hours after interview or confirm correct DS-160 ID.
Stuck in “Administrative Processing”
- Fix: Email embassy with case number & passport details.
Passport Not Returned After “Issued”
- Fix: Track via VFS Global (if applicable) or call embassy.
6. FAQs: US Visa Status Check
1. How long does it take to get a US visa after approval?
- 5–10 days (varies by country).
2. Can I check visa status without DS-160?
No—you must have the DS-160 barcode.
3. What if my status is “Refused” under 221(g)?
Submit missing documents within 1 year.
4. Does “Administrative Processing” mean rejection?
No—it’s normal for some cases (wait 3–6 weeks).
5. Can I speed up my visa processing?
Only for emergencies (medical/humanitarian reasons).
Conclusion & Next Steps
To check your US visa status:
- Use the CEAC portal daily.
- Contact your local embassy if stuck.
- Track passport return via VFS/embassy links.
Still need help? Comment below!
Important Links Summary
| Portal | URL |
|---|---|
| CEAC (all countries) | https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker |
| USTravelDocs India | https://www.ustraveldocs.com/in |
| USTravelDocs Pakistan | https://www.ustraveldocs.com/pk |
| Passport Tracking Email | passportstatus@ustraveldocs.com |
| CEAC Visa FAQ | https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx |
| MRV Fee Validity (India) | https://www.ustraveldocs.com/in/in-niv-visafeeinfo.asp |
Further Reading:
Drop your questions below, and feel free to request help with document prep or visa forms—happy to assist!
Written by Asif, an experienced researcher helping People’s to navigate visas and work abroad opportunities.
Explore more visa guides on LiveAbroadGuide.com
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