SIV Interview Update
Update for Afghan SIVs awaiting Interview – Starting January 1, 2026, the expanded U.S. travel ban will block Afghan SIV applicants from receiving visas or entering the United States, though those with issued visas may still enter. Even if an application has already been approved, a U.S. embassy may deny the visa under Section 212(f) of U.S. immigration law. This type of denial is final, not temporary.
If a visa is denied under 212(f), the applicant may need to apply again if the travel ban is lifted in the future. However, this denial should not cancel the underlying approval of the case (COM Approval remains valid). IRAP is currently recommending that Afghans with visa appointments consider postponing their interview dates. SIVs should seek legal advice prior to making a decision on attending a visa interview at this time.
The full text of the IRAP update is as follows:
Additionally, beginning on January 1, 2026 the expanded travel ban will take effect. The expanded travel ban says that Afghan SIV applicants cannot be issued visas or enter the United States. Starting on January 1, 2026, even if your case is approved and you are waiting for your visa to be issued, the U.S. embassy may deny your visa under something called “212(f)” instead of “221(g).” This refers to another section of the U.S. immigration laws, and this is a final denial.
If your visa is denied under 212(f), you may have to re-apply for a visa if and when the travel ban is lifted. Therefore, you may want to postpone your visa interview. This is a complicated issue, and you may want to speak with an immigration attorney about your options before making a decision. If your visa is denied under 212(f) this should not affect the validity of the underlying petition (such as the COM approval or the I-130 or I-730 approval).
If you choose to postpone your visa interview, you may want to take steps to avoid your case being deemed “inactive.” IRAP has information here about how to keep your case active until you are ready for the visa interview.
As a reminder, The Afghan Digest will resume on January 11.