ashukla

There is no full proof method to avoid 221G, its purely case to case and officer to officer dependent, I am not sure but what I am hearing that consulates in India only handling F, J, M & emergency visa. its not yet open for all visa processing that includes H1B as well. Dropbox is available you may opt that, in case if they need interview then that will be a problem. I would advise do no travel unless it is deadly required.

Yes you can travel, but during recent travel advisory and restrictions its not advisable to visit outside the USA with this short validity on current visa. I am not sure but heard that if your work visa is less than three months for USA then you will not be allowed to comeback. Please check all before you leave or plan.

Visa will not issued on any passport which has less than 6 months for expiration date. So don't even try. Better renew the passport first and then appear for the interview. Of course submit a new DS-160 with new passport number.

As long as they have your passport, its perfectly fine. System status change is like a step by step process and I would recommend do not worry about it.

Irrespective of the outcome, you should disclose this information. make sure you have all the evidence documents of final outcome. they may ask during the interview as they do not have access to the respective system.

No issues your I-140 and H1B are two separate and individual entities, to travel you should have approved H1B. I-140 is for whole a lot different purpose.

Individuals travelling from USA are allowed to visit any consulate of their choice as long as consulate entertains the respective visa category. So you are good go where you find the first available dates.

If you already have H1B visa with your new employer then why do you need to go for stamping? and Yes you can go to Canada, this shouldn't be a problem. I would advise Mexico is much better option in terms of availability of dates and easiness in process with maximum positive outcome.

Good Luck!!!

Sorry to hear this bro, could you please provide more details about your profile, like what is your designation, what is employment model (EC EVC or FT), highest degree and from where you attained in which field? There is no specific time line for such cases but your further details will allow to get an insight what would be the reason and its probable outcome. Although he retained your passport is a good sign, all I can think of VO is going to verify your employment and based on that hopefully your visa will get issued. This really sucks man, till today I don't understand what DOS verifies which USCIS cannot verify from their end while approving the petition? its like two different agencies from the same country are conflicting with each other decisions and its only us who are getting screwed big time. I would rather have my H1B petition denied instead of this 221G, petition denial allow me to wrap up and leave the USA whereas this 221G make you stuck out of the country and all your USA belongings are in jeopardy!!!

TBH bro, do not keep any high hopes on 221G white slip. I would say start looking for other options either in india or in USA. no negatives all I am sharing what I have experienced or know.

I don't know any thing about earliest available date in Canada although you can book an appointment in any other country US consulate if they entertain H1B visa, like Mexico or India (except Chennai) or any other country where you can go easily. No you cannot take two dates on the same DS 160 and for the proof of payment is solely tied to one interview date.

No you cannot enter back to USA by using AVR as there is parameter mentioned to use AVR - If you have appeared for visa stamping and your visa is denied or still in process then an applicant will not be eligible to AVR entry to USA.

Good Luck mate!!! wish you all the very best for positive outcome. Keep us posted.