Stuck in Immigration Limbo? We’ll Get You Moving Again

Your visa interview went well. The officer seemed satisfied. But instead of approval, you heard those dreaded words: “Your case requires additional administrative processing.” Now, weeks have turned into months of waiting, with no end in sight and no real explanation.

At Holden Law Firm, we understand the frustration, anxiety, and disruption these delays cause. Jobs are put on hold. Families remain separated. Important life events are missed. Every day matters—and we’re here to break through the bureaucratic roadblocks keeping you in limbo.

Visa Delays and Administrative Processing – What You Need to Know

What Is Administrative Processing?

Administrative processing—often referred to as “221(g)” processing after the relevant section of the Immigration and Nationality Act—occurs when the government needs to conduct additional security checks or verify information before making a final visa decision. These reviews can include:

• Background checks against various government databases
• Security advisory opinions (SAOs)
• Investigations into technical or scientific backgrounds
• Verification of documents or statements
• Resolution of potential ineligibilities

Common Visa Types Affected by Delays

While any visa can face administrative processing, we frequently help clients experiencing delays with:

• Employment-based visas (H-1B, L-1, O-1)
• Student visas (F and M categories)
• Exchange visitor visas (J category)
• Tourist and business visitor visas (B-1/B-2)
• Family-based immigrant visas
• Diversity visa lottery winners

How Long Do These Delays Last?

The State Department claims most administrative processing cases are resolved within 60 days. The reality we see is very different. Without intervention, cases frequently languish for:

• 3-6 months for standard administrative processing
• 6-12 months for technology alert list (TAL) reviews
• 1-2+ years for complex security checks or in high-scrutiny countries

Our Strategy for Resolving Administrative Processing Delays

Thorough Case Analysis

Every successful resolution starts with understanding exactly why your case is delayed. We begin by:

• Reviewing all correspondence with the embassy or consulate
• Analyzing potential security, technical, or fraud concerns
• Identifying the likely type of administrative processing
• Determining which agency (State Department, FBI, DHS) likely has your case

Strategic Status Inquiries

Simply asking “what’s happening?” rarely works. We use targeted approaches:

• Formal inquiries through appropriate channels based on visa type and consular post
• Documented follow-ups at strategic intervals
• Escalation to supervisory personnel when initial inquiries stall
• Leveraging established relationships with consular officials

Congressional Assistance

When standard inquiries fail, congressional involvement can be powerful. We work with:

• Local congressional offices in Georgia
• Senate offices with influence on immigration matters
• Congressional caseworkers experienced in visa issues

Our established relationships with congressional staff help ensure your case gets proper attention.

Writ of Mandamus Litigation

When all else fails, we don’t hesitate to take legal action. A writ of mandamus lawsuit in federal court can force the government to make a decision on long-delayed cases. Our litigation approach includes:

• Filing in the appropriate federal district court
• Compelling government agencies to explain the delay
• Seeking court orders requiring prompt adjudication
• Negotiating with government attorneys to resolve cases before judgment

Reopening or Reconsidering Denials

If administrative processing results in an unfavorable decision, we quickly respond with:

• Motions to reopen based on new evidence
• Motions to reconsider addressing legal errors
• New applications with strengthened documentation
• Waiver applications when appropriate

Common Causes of Administrative Processing We Resolve

Technology Alert List (TAL) Delays

Scientists, researchers, engineers, and technology professionals often face extended delays due to concerns about sensitive knowledge transfer. We help by:

• Preparing detailed explanations of technical work
• Documenting legitimate research purposes
• Addressing potential dual-use technology concerns
• Distinguishing commercial from sensitive applications

Name Check and Identity Issues

Similar names or identity questions can trigger lengthy background investigations. Our approach includes:

• Providing additional identifying documentation
• Securing police clearances from relevant countries
• Submitting biometric verification when helpful
• Addressing potential identity confusion

Prior Immigration Issues

Past visa denials, overstays, or misrepresentations can result in additional scrutiny. We address these by:

• Explaining previous circumstances with supporting evidence
• Preparing waiver applications when necessary
• Documenting changes in circumstances
• Providing clear evidence of ties to home country

Security Advisory Opinions

Nationals of certain countries or with specific backgrounds face additional security reviews. We expedite these by:

• Working with congressional offices familiar with these delays
• Documenting humanitarian circumstances requiring expedited processing
• Leveraging legal pressure when delays become unreasonable
• Providing additional security-related documentation proactively

Why Choose Holden Law Firm for Administrative Processing Delays

We Know What Works—And What Doesn’t

Generic status inquiries and standard responses rarely resolve difficult cases. Our strategies are based on years of experience breaking through administrative roadblocks with targeted approaches tailored to your specific situation.

We Understand the Human Cost of Delays

Administrative processing isn’t just a legal matter—it’s families missing milestones together, careers put on hold, and lives stuck in uncertainty. We bring urgency and commitment to every case because we know what’s at stake for you.

We Have the Tools to Escalate When Necessary

Our firm maintains relationships with congressional offices, has experience with federal litigation, and knows when to deploy each tool in our arsenal. We start with the most efficient approach, but are always ready to escalate if initial efforts stall.

We Keep You Informed

Uncertainty is one of the most stressful aspects of administrative processing. Throughout your case, we provide:

• Regular status updates
• Clear explanations of what’s happening behind the scenes
• Realistic timelines based on current processing trends
• Prompt responses to your questions and concerns

Take Action Now to End Your Immigration Delay

Administrative processing rarely resolves itself quickly without intervention. The longer a case remains delayed, the more difficult it can become to break through the bureaucratic inertia.

Don’t spend another day waiting and wondering. Contact Holden Law Firm today to schedule a consultation at our Gainesville office. Let us put our experience to work, ending your administrative processing delay and getting your immigration journey back on track.

The information provided on this page is general in nature and not intended as legal advice. Every case involves unique circumstances. Please contact our office for guidance specific to your situation.