How to Use the New US Visa Appointment System SeaVRP C1/D Visa Application [For FILIPINO Seafarers]
US Visa for Seafarers Application and Renewal Guide - Step by step guide for manning agencies on how to apply for US Visa for Filipino seafarers or the C1/D US Visa using the new Seafarer Visa Reissuance Program or SeaVRP online appointment system, new NIV application proccess, Visa Application Center (VAC), Advanced Visa Portal (AVP) for manning agencies, Lightering C4/D3) US Visa. The U.S. Embassy in the Philippines launched a new appointment system (new visa appointment scheduling system) with the opening of the Visa Application Center (VAC) in Parqal Bldg. 8, Level 3, Diosdado Macapagal Blvd., Parañaque City. The U.S. Embassy Nonimmigrant Visa Seafaring Team conducted the 2024 Virtual Seafaring Forum - Wednesday, October 16, 2024 - 1:00 p.m to discuss important updates and the recent launch of the U.S. Embassy Visa Application Center (VAC) for Manning Agencies applying for SeaVRP C1/D Visa for Filipino Seaman / seafarers.
Chapters:
0:00 Points of Discussion
0:25 NewUS Visa Class - Lightering (C4/D3) Visa
1:33 Photo Reminders
2:45 Travel History & DS 160 Submission
4:38 MRV Fee Receipt & Visa Application Pull-Out request
5:31 Procedure for SeaVRP Application
6:46 How to Apply for US VIsa Using the New AVP Portal - Step by Step Guide
This is for shipping / manning company staff and liaison officer / personnel responsible for scheduling US Visa appointments for seaman / seafarers. This forum is specifically designed for employees who are responsible for scheduling interview appointments, signing documents, and liaison officers. This forum will walk you through the special procedures for submitting bulk appointments and payments for your crew members.
Also, effective immediately, crew members who will engage in lightering activities in the United States must apply for a separate C4/D3 visa. Please note that C1/D or B1/OCS visas cannot be used for transit to vessels engaged in lightering activities.
The Nonimmigrant Visa Unit of the U.S. Embassy in Manila would like to inform you that a new visa classification C4/D3 is required for crewmembers who will engage in lightering activities. Lightering is a particular kind of sea crewmember activity in which liquid cargo is transferred to or from another vessel engaged in foreign trade. Lightering often involves the transfer of crude oil, liquified natural gas or other liquid fossil fuels to or from a larger vessel by a smaller vessel when port facilities are not able to accommodate larger vessels.
As of today, individuals seeking to check U.S. visa appointment available dates in the Philippines can visit the U.S. Embassy Manila’s official website for the latest information. Recent updates regarding the U.S. Embassy Manila interview process highlight that applicants should continue monitoring the embassy’s channels for announcements. Those involved in a US visa application in the Philippines are encouraged to use the U.S. visa application online system for ease and efficiency. For U.S. visa renewal in the Philippines in 2024, eligible applicants can benefit from the Dropbox option, which significantly reduces processing time. To inquire further, including specifics about Dropbox processing time, individuals may contact the U.S. Embassy Manila appointment services through their official contact number.
Streamlined Visa Processing for Manning Agencies: An Introduction to the Advanced Visa Portal (AVP)
The visa processing landscape has taken a positive step forward for manning agencies with the introduction of the Advanced Visa Portal (AVP). The AVP provides an efficient, streamlined option for processing C1/D and B1-OCS visa applications, specifically with interview waiver applications. Here’s an overview of what the new system offers and what manning agencies need to know to transition smoothly.
Key Benefits of the Advanced Visa Portal
Starting November 13, 2024, manning agencies can use the AVP to process C1/D and B1-OCS visa interview waiver applications. The AVP promises a smoother, more efficient workflow for agencies and applicants alike. To help facilitate the transition, an AVP Interview Waiver Guide and Excel template for bulk applicant uploads have been provided.
Using the Legacy MRV Receipts
While the AVP brings exciting possibilities, agencies may have unused MRV receipts from the legacy visa processing system. For agencies with such receipts, the AVP offers flexibility: these legacy receipts can still be used to process individual interview waiver applications. Agencies with a large volume of legacy receipts should notify the consular team about their planned usage to ensure seamless integration into the new system.
Support and Assistance
Adopting a new system can present challenges. If users encounter technical difficulties with the AVP, support is readily available. Agencies can contact the support team at MNLNIVSEA@state.gov and support-bu-philippines@usvisascheduling.com. It’s recommended to include screenshots with error reports to help the team diagnose and resolve any issues more efficiently.
The introduction of the AVP represents a significant advancement in visa processing for manning agencies. With continued cooperation and patience from all involved, this system has the potential to improve workflows, enhance user experiences, and set a new standard for visa application processes.
For more information or to start using the AVP, visit https://avp.usvisascheduling.com/atlas-avp-ui.
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Source:
NIV Seafaring Team
Nonimmigrant Visa Consular Section
All manning agencies must submit the electronic application (DS-160) form for applicants "not later than five business days (Weekends, PH & US holidays excluded)" before the appointment date.
Manning agencies must cancel an appointment not later than 5 calendar days before the scheduled appointment date.
In addition, the U.S. embassy would like to reiterate the importance of complying with their appointment cancellation policy. Manning agencies must cancel an appointment not later than 5 calendar days before the scheduled appointment date. Upon failure to cancel an appointment as required by our policy resulting in a no-show, the MRV fee receipt will be locked for 5 calendar days.
Below you will find answers to our most frequently asked questions:
Applicants who do not comply with these requirements will not be admitted to the interview. They will be required to schedule a new appointment fully consistent with our policies .
- My seafarer's visa was issued in March 2013 and expired in March 2018. Is he/she qualified for SeaVRP?
No. Applicants with U.S. visas that have expired more than 12 months ago now require an in-person interview. An official notification was sent to all accredited seafaring agencies regarding this matter.
- Why are appointment wait times so long?
We currently have a high demand for all types of U.S. visas. When a cancellation of appointment is done in a timely manner, it opens an appointment slot and it will be made available to those who needs it. Please check our appointment calendar regularly to see if new slots have opened up. Thank you for your understanding in this matter.
- I am having technical problems with the appointment system. What should I do?
For applicant's incorrect information entry on appointment booking, MRV fee receipt, appointment schedule or any other technical errors, please send an email to support-philippines@ustraveldocs.com or call our call center. Effective October 6, 2019, the Visa Application Services call center numbers will be (02)8548-8223 and (02)7792-8988. If calling from U.S. mainland: 703-520-2235
- My seafarer's visa was approved, but we have not yet received it. How can I check the status of his/her visa?
We receive a large number of inquiries regarding the status of individual seafarers on a daily basis. For inquiries on approved visas, please contact 2GO courier. If your seafarer was approved but has not received his/her passport after 14 days, you may email us at MNLNIVSea@state.gov.
- My seafarer's visa is in 221g (administrative processing) status. How can I check the status of his/her visa?
Applicants whose visas were refused under 221g (administrative processing) can now check the status of their application online. Please click this link, https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx?eQs=WwjqOlbeRYzCYubaSQI+RA==. If your seafarer's control number is not posted, you may email us at MNLNIVSea@state.gov, 15 days after their interview.
- My seafarer needs to join his/her ship immediately. Can he/she get an expedited appointment?
Unfortunately, no. Due to high demand for visa appointments, the U.S. embassy cannot expedite appointments for seafarers. Please book appointments as far in advance as possible to avoid delays.
- My seafarer has already been approved and needs to join his/her ship immediately. Can the processing of his/her passport be expedited?
Unfortunately, no. Due to the high volume of visas processed on a daily basis, the U.S. embassy cannot expedite the processing or release of passports. Please book appointments as far in advance as possible to avoid delays.
- Where can I find information about Manning Agency accreditation and renewal?
Please click this link for information, https://ph.usembassy.gov/visas/nonimmigrant-visas/manning-accreditation/.
- What are the appointment time slots for seafarers?
o 1:00pm – first time seafarers/visa expired more than 12 months (C1/D), B1 (OCS) and B1 Yacht
o 1:15pm – first time seafarers/visa expired more than 12 months (C1/D), B1 (OCS) and B1 Yacht
o 12:00pm – SeaVRP12 qualified applicants only
o 7:20 am every Wednesday – Seafarers for Non-Accredited Manning Agency
- If I select the wrong time slot, can my seafarer still be granted an interview?
No. It is the responsibility of the manning agency to select the correct time slot for its seafarers. Only seafarers qualified for their time slots will be accommodated. Seafarers who are not qualified for their time slots will be asked to rebook their appointments.
- What are the qualifications for the Seafarer Visa Reissuance Program (SeaVRP)?
The SeaVRP program is intended to alleviate the burden of interview for seafarers who are qualified. Please find the SeaVRP requirements in this link, https://ph.usembassy.gov/visas/nonimmigrant-visas/seavrp/
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