HELP J1 Visa and Emailed DS-5535

[Marmalve 0]

Hello, I'm a J-1 petitioner for a semester in a Maryland University. 

 

I got the DS-5535 on a email the day after my interview (December the 19th)

 

As others I read, I was granted the visa and given a white slip that said I'd get it in 4 to 6 days. 

 

However, 28 days have passed and I don't have anything yet, I called, made sure they receive the documents and emailed them with the same usual responses. 

 

My flight was going to take departure next Friday (January the 17th), unless I get the "Issued" status by this evening I won't be able to take it. 

 

They kept my passport with them, and I wonder how long can they keep it without making the firm decision of stamping it? Also, what made they think I'm a threat to make me send them the DS-5535?

 

I even know the name of the Vice-consul who is doing my visa process since he signed and stamped his name on my DS-2019.

 

What do you think are the estimate time I'll have to wait more for getting my passport with the visa? 

[geowrian 22,337]

Current megathread on the DS-5535...you'll get a better idea of the timeline there.

There is no time limit for AP.

 

The visa was never granted. It was likely approved by the CO, but it cannot be issued until final checks are completed.

What exactly triggers as DS-5535 is unknown. There are common themes among most people who get one - travel history, residencies, field of work, name is the same or similar to certain individuals, etc.

[Marmalve 0]

14 minutes ago, geowrian said:

Current megathread on the DS-5535...you'll get a better idea of the timeline there.

There is no time limit for AP.

 

The visa was never granted. It was likely approved by the CO, but it cannot be issued until final checks are completed.

What exactly triggers as DS-5535 is unknown. There are common themes among most people who get one - travel history, residencies, field of work, name is the same or similar to certain individuals, etc.

I haven't see anyone getting these on J1 visas and I wonder if that's a good sign meaning they take few time processing

[geowrian 22,337]

Just now, Marmalve said:

I haven't see anyone getting these on J1 visas and I wonder if that's a good sign meaning they take few time processing

The DS-5535 applies for any visa. I've seen it on tourist visas, F-1 visas, etc.

[Marmalve 0]

1 minute ago, geowrian said:

The DS-5535 applies for any visa. I've seen it on tourist visas, F-1 visas, etc.

And the thingy of having my passport with them and not returning it? Is it a good sign? 

[geowrian 22,337]

Just now, Marmalve said:

And the thingy of having my passport with them and not returning it? Is it a good sign? 

Generally holding on to the passport is a good sign. Most likely it will be issued...it's just a matter of "when".

[Marmalve 0]

9 minutes ago, geowrian said:

Generally holding on to the passport is a good sign. Most likely it will be issued...it's just a matter of "when".

And they don't mind the beginning of the program? It's set to start on january the 27th... 

[geowrian 22,337]

19 minutes ago, Marmalve said:

And they don't mind the beginning of the program? It's set to start on january the 27th... 

Correct.

[Marmalve 0]

Luckily my plane price was refunded in a voucher! 

 

I will keep waiting until classes start at my home university, I can't lose many classes since I'm graduating this year...