F-1 renewal during OPT went to admin. processing after approval - advice & precedents?

[throwaway_f1admin 0]

Hi,

I am an Electrical Engineer working in TX as part of OPT after graduating from my BS program last Fall.

I had to travel to my native Turkey for a two-week visit due to familial reasons, and because my F-1 had expired, I reapplied at the consulate here (Istanbul, TR) on my first day here. My OPT status is valid for another 5 months and I am also eligible for the 2-year STEM extension.

My visa was approved during my consulate visit and I was given the approval paper. However, after a couple days, I received an email from the consulate saying my application was put on administrative processing, was given a form to fill out (mostly asking for addresses and social media accounts) and my passport was subsequently returned today without a visa in it. The email also said:

Quote

 

For some applications, administrative processing can take at least 3 months.

 

Obviously I'm terrified at the prospect of being stuck in Turkey for 3 months and worried about what consequences this might have re: my job in the States.

So I wanted to come out here and ask if anyone has had a similar experience (admin. processing after approval, w/ F-1 and OPT, etc) and how long it took for this to be resolved.

Also any advice re: the situation is appreciated. Not sure if there's anything I can do but wait at this point but might as well give it a shot.

Thanks!

[Crazy Cat 41,985]

Approval isn't official until after all administrative processing is complete.  Administrative Processing cannot be waived or expedited.....it can last for days, weeks, months, or even years (though unlikely)............you can only try to have patience.......

Edited July 26, 2019 by missileman

[SusieQQQ 11,587]

Sounds like a ds5535 request. No telling how long it will take. Sorry to not have better news other than hoping it’s quick.