“How to Check US Visa Status Online (Nonimmigrant Visa)

Every year, the United States of America attracts many visa applications, both immigrants as well as non-immigrants. However, when applying for a US visa, checking the status of your application is an important step to stay informed about its progress.


Updated On - 06 Sep 2025
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Whether you're waiting for approval or further instructions, knowing how to track your visa status online can help ease the process. Read on to know more about how to check the status of your US nonimmigrant visa application online.

How to Check Your U.S. Nonimmigrant Visa Application Status

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to check your U.S. visa application status: 

us visa status

Step 1: Visit the official website designated for visa status checks. This website is specifically designed for tracking U.S. visa applications. 

Step 2: On the website, you will be asked to select the type of visa application you have. In this case, select 'NONIMMIGRANT VISA (NIV)' as the application type. 

Step 3: After selecting the application type, you will be prompted to choose the location where you attended your visa interview. This is important as the status of your application may vary based on the specific location. 

Step 4: Next, you need to enter either your Application ID or Case Number. The Application ID can typically be found on your visa appointment confirmation letter or the DS-160 application form. The Case Number is a reference number provided by the consulate, usually given for cases involving administrative processing or 221g. Enter the correct information based on what is applicable to your situation. 

Step 5: To ensure that you are a human and not a spam bot, a CAPTCHA code will be displayed on the page. Enter the code exactly as shown. If you have difficulty reading the code, you can request a new code or even listen to an audio version of the code. 

Step 6: Once you have entered all the required information accurately, click on the 'Submit' button to proceed with the visa status check. 

Step-by-Step Guide to US Visa Status: No Status

  1. Submission of Documents: After you have submitted your documents for US Visa renewal through the dropbox option or attended an in-person visa interview, you may check your visa status online. 
  2. Online Status: When you visit the CEAC website to check your visa status, you might see the status displayed as 'No Status'. This is a common occurrence, especially for dropbox cases. 
  3. Review and Update: The reason for the 'No Status' message is that the authorities need time to review the documents you submitted and update the status of your case online. This process takes some time, and there is usually a delay in updating the status. 
  4. Waiting Period: It is important not to panic if you see the 'No Status' message. You need to be patient during this waiting period. It is normal to see this status for a few days up to 10 days from the date you dropped off your documents or visited the consulate. 
  5. Potential Delays: Some individuals have reported experiencing delays of up to 10 days before their visa status gets updated. It varies from case to case, and the processing time may differ. 
  1. Contacting the Consulate: If the 'No Status' message persists beyond the expected timeframe (more than 10 days), then it may be appropriate to reach out to the consulate or embassy to inquire about the status of your application. However, it is generally advised to wait until the expected timeframe has passed before contacting them. 

US Visa Status Explained: Administrative Processing, Issued, and Refused

  • Administrative Processing: When you see the status 'Administrative Processing,' it means that your visa has not been issued yet, and there are ongoing checks and procedures being conducted. This status is commonly seen in the first few days after your visa interview. If you were issued a 221g Administrative Processing slip, the processing time may take longer before your visa moves to the 'Issued' status. 
  • Issued: The 'Issued' status indicates that your visa stamping process is almost completed and in its final stages. You can expect to receive your visa within a week to 10 days after this status. If you do not receive any communication or your visa within the expected timeframe, it is advisable to contact the consulate or embassy for further information. 
  • Refused: If your visa application has been denied or refused, the status displayed on the CEAC website will be 'Refused.' This means that you were unable to demonstrate your eligibility for a visa issuance to the consular officer. The reasons for refusal can vary, and the consular officer may provide you with a slip or indicate the specific reason for the denial. It's important to note that for some cases, the 'Refused' status may appear immediately after the interview, while for others, such as H1B visas, it may be displayed at a later stage, especially if there was a period of administrative processing (221g) before the denial.  
  • Error - 'Your Search did not return any data': If you encounter the error message 'Your Search did not return any data' while checking your US visa status on the CEAC website, it indicates that you might have entered the data incorrectly. One common mistake is removing the spaces in the Case Number. It's important to enter the Case Number with the appropriate spaces. For example, if the Case Number is '2020118 145 1002,' make sure to include the spaces as shown. Double-check your entry and ensure that you have entered all the necessary information correctly. Correcting any errors in the entered data should resolve the error.  
  • Error - 'Invalid Application ID or Case Number': If you receive an error stating 'Invalid Application ID or Case Number,' it suggests that you might have selected the wrong location or entered an incorrect Application ID or Case Number. Carefully review the location selection and ensure it corresponds to the location where you had your visa interview. Verify that you have entered the Application ID or Case Number accurately, without any missing or additional digits. 

Correcting any inaccuracies in the entered information should resolve the error message.If you continue to experience difficulties or have further questions regarding the US visa status check, consider reaching out to the consulate or embassy for assistance. 

FAQs on How to Check US Visa Status Online (Nonimmigrant Visa)

  • Do you get an email when your visa is approved?

    Yes, after your visa is approved, you can expect to receive an email notification within the next 5-10 business days, informing you that your passport is ready for pick-up at the designated location specified in your profile. 

  • How do I track my DS 160 form?

    To track your DS-160 form, visit the CEAC website, select the appropriate embassy/consulate, and retrieve your application using the application ID to view and print the confirmation page. 

  • Can I check my U.S. visa status with passport number?

    Yes, you can check your U.S. visa status using your passport number by sending an email to passportstatus@ustraveldocs.com with your passport number in the subject and/or body. An automatic response will be sent to you with the visa status.   

  • Can I check my USA visa online?

    Yes, you can check the status of your USA visa application online at www.ceac.state.gov. If your visa has been denied, you can also find relevant information regarding ineligibility and waivers on www.usvisas.state.gov .   

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