Middle East Conflict Impacts US Visa Processing

Embassies Cancel Appointments

Following the start of the military action in the area, most US embassies have cancelled any pre-booked visa appointments. In addition, ongoing airport closures and suspensions of flights means travel to and from the Middle East is all but suspended. Anyone who had a pre-booked visa appointment should check their embassy’s page for further details.

It is expected the disruption could also lead to indirect delays in other countries, especially as the situation continues to develop.

US Issues Safety Travel Advice

The US Department of State has already advised US citizens in the following countries to leave due to safety concerns:

• Bahrain
• Egypt
• Iran
• Iraq
• Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza
• Jordan
• Kuwait
• Lebanon
• Oman
• Qatar
• Saudi Arabia
• Syria
• United Arab Emirates
• Yemen

What to Do If You Employ Staff in the Middle East

The US government has also issued advice to employers of overseas staff in the Middle East and what the next steps are to ensure the safety of workers.

As an employer you should:

• Confirm the whereabouts and safety of all staff
• Check the nationality, visa status and contact details of employees
• Suspend non-essential travel plans
• Consider the possibility of evacuation, relocation or sheltering in place.
• Advise any employed foreign nationals to register with their home country embassy if possible

How Can IAS Help?

If you are concerned about how the current Middle East may affect your travel or immigration status, please contact our team for personalised support.

We can also offer help to those businesses employing staff in the region, who are concerned what immigration steps are needed to ensure the safety of personnel.

Contact IAS today for advice on +1 844 290 6312 or use our live chat to keep up-to-date with the latest immigration policies.