Traveling at Personal Expense for SIV Interview and Visa
If your Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) case has been transferred to a third country such as Qatar without your consent, it indicates that the CARE office managed the relocation. Your interview is scheduled to occur at the U.S. Consulate within the Al Sailiya refugee camp close to Doha, where CARE manages the procedure. Al Sailiya acts as a provisional center for Afghan refugees prior to their move to the U.S., while Al Udeid Air Base is also utilized during certain phases of the transfer.
U.S. Embassy vs. Al Sailiya Consulate: Main Distinctions
In Doha, there exist two U.S. diplomatic missions:
Embassy of the United States in Doha: This embassy provides consular services for citizens of Qatar and the United States. Should you visit Doha independently, your interview will be held at this location.
Consulate for Afghans at Al Sailiya Camp: This consulate takes the place of the U.S. Embassy in Kabul and is exclusively for applicants referred by CARE. If CARE manages your transfer, your interview will take place here.
Procedures for Traveling to Qatar at Your Own Cost for SIV Interview
- Acquire a visa for Qatar: obtain a visa for Qatar, which may be difficult.
- Reach out to the U.S. National Visa Center (NVC): upon reaching Qatar, send an email to [email protected] to ask for the transfer of your case to the U.S. Embassy in Doha, providing your case number, full name, and date of birth.
- Provide Papers: include scanned versions of your passport, Qatar visa, entry stamps, and accommodation proof.
- Await Reply: processing your request by NVC may require several days or even weeks.
- Participate in the Interview: after your case is transferred, the U.S. Embassy will reach out to you to arrange your interview.
- Visa Approval: if you are successful, you will obtain your U.S. visa, but you will be responsible for your travel and lodging expenses.
Key Aspects to Consider
- The Duration of Processing May Be Extended: The complete visa and interview procedure can span from three months to more than a year.
- No Assurance of Visa Acceptance: The final determination is made by the U.S. Consulate, and immigration regulations may vary: Monetary Preparedness for Remaining in Qatar
Note: Make sure you have enough financial means to support an extended stay in Qatar before planning your trip.