Admin processing 221g

[enxm 1]

Hi,

I'm a dual citizen of Sweden and Iran. I've applied for L1-B visa on April 2024, and my application was refused under 221g (admin processing). Since then, the status has not changed (over 16 months!). 

I would like see if there is anyone else in similar situation. Also, does anybody know the current timeline of admin processing for Iranians.  

[Boiler 47,668]

There is no timeline for AP, 18 months does seem quite long even for Iran.

 

Does your Employers Lawyer have any comment?

[enxm 1]

I'm aware, and the funny thing is that last time I applied for a B1/2 visa, with the same passport (Swedish), it only took 2-3 months. 

My employer lawyer suggested Mandamus lawsuit. 

[Boiler 47,668]

Not sure if a WoM would work on a NIV, after all they could just deny it instead. But on the other hand there seems no other option and if your Employer os willing toi pay, well might as well.

[enxm 1]

If I understand it correctly, the case is probably been stuck on clearance, and a WoM would help move the needle, and there should not be any retaliation. However, my employer is not willing to pay the fees. 

[Boiler 47,668]

Not retaliation, more a what do we do, just thinking the easiest way out would be a simple refusal. But it could also unstick it. Shame your Employer will not cover the cost, it is after all them who want you to go to the US.

[enxm 1]

yea, and cost of Mandamus is nothing for them, anyway there is always a risk for such lawsuits. I've heard a lot of Iranians are stuck in a similar situation, even the student visas are taking more than a year these days. It is still surprising why don't they care about my Swedish nationality and clear history...

[Boiler 47,668]

Unusual for someone with Swedish Nationality to be in long AP. my money is on the Iranian aspect.

[JeanneAdil 7,156]

7 hours ago, enxm said:

Hi,

I'm a dual citizen of Sweden and Iran. I've applied for L1-B visa on April 2024, and my application was refused under 221g (admin processing). Since then, the status has not changed (over 16 months!). 

I would like see if there is anyone else in similar situation. Also, does anybody know the current timeline of admin processing for Iranians.  

https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/06/restricting-the-entry-of-foreign-nationals-to-protect-the-united-states-from-foreign-terrorists-and-other-national-security-and-public-safety-threats/

 

(h)  Iran

(i)   Iran is a state sponsor of terrorism.  Iran regularly fails to cooperate with the United States Government in identifying security risks, is the source of significant terrorism around the world, and has historically failed to accept back its removable nationals. 

(ii)  The entry into the United States of nationals of Iran as immigrants and nonimmigrants is hereby suspended.

[Crazy Cat 44,851]

4 minutes ago, JeanneAdil said:

https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/06/restricting-the-entry-of-foreign-nationals-to-protect-the-united-states-from-foreign-terrorists-and-other-national-security-and-public-safety-threats/

 

(h)  Iran

(i)   Iran is a state sponsor of terrorism.  Iran regularly fails to cooperate with the United States Government in identifying security risks, is the source of significant terrorism around the world, and has historically failed to accept back its removable nationals. 

(ii)  The entry into the United States of nationals of Iran as immigrants and nonimmigrants is hereby suspended.

 

(b)  Exceptions.  The suspension of and limitation on entry pursuant to sections 2 and 3 of this proclamation shall not apply to:

(i)     any lawful permanent resident of the United States;

(ii)    any dual national of a country designated under sections 2 and 3 of this proclamation when the individual is traveling on a passport issued by a country not so designated;

[JeanneAdil 7,156]

30 minutes ago, Crazy Cat said:

 

(b)  Exceptions.  The suspension of and limitation on entry pursuant to sections 2 and 3 of this proclamation shall not apply to:

(i)     any lawful permanent resident of the United States;

(ii)    any dual national of a country designated under sections 2 and 3 of this proclamation when the individual is traveling on a passport issued by a country not so designated;

He is L1 b nonimmigrant 

he asked about Iran in his post so i assume he is using Iranian passport

[enxm 1]

As mentioned already, I used my Swedish passport!

[JeanneAdil 7,156]

1 minute ago, enxm said:

As mentioned already, I used my Swedish passport!

but identify as Iranian???

 

[Crazy Cat 44,851]

3 minutes ago, enxm said:

As mentioned already, I used my Swedish passport!

Then, you might be subject to admin processing, but not subject to the travel ban.

[Cathi 5,860]

4 hours ago, enxm said:

If I understand it correctly, the case is probably been stuck on clearance, and a WoM would help move the needle, and there should not be any retaliation. However, my employer is not willing to pay the fees. 

It may move the needle, or it could force them into making a decision when AP (background checks) have not been completed forcing them to deny your case. WoM is a double-edged sword.