An international PhD student studying in Canada has successfully received their J-1 visa after a rollercoaster of updates on the CEAC portal, shedding light on what many applicants face while navigating the U.S. visa process. Sharing their experience on Reddit, the student described the timeline, interview details, and the uncertainty of administrative processing at the U.S. Consulate in Toronto.
Emergency Appointment Granted After DS-2019 Arrival
The applicant received their DS-2019 form on July 9, after a 10-day wait that included the U.S. Independence Day long weekend. Wasting no time, they submitted the DS-160 form the same day and applied for an emergency visa appointment. Despite the consulate’s website showing the dreaded “System is busy” message, a call to the Toronto visa helpline helped secure an interview slot for July 15.
At the interview, the consular officer confirmed details about the applicant’s PhD program and planned internship in the U.S., and verified their existing B1/B2 visa. When asked about social media handles listed on the DS-160 form, the student confirmed they had made them public as required. After a few minutes of typing, the officer handed over a 221(g) yellow slip—typically indicating administrative processing—and retained the applicant’s passport and DS-2019.
Status Fluctuations Add to Anxiety
Immediately after the interview, the CEAC status showed “Refused,” a common but often temporary indicator during processing. Before the consulate closed for the day, the status updated to “Approved,” bringing initial relief. However, two days later, on July 17, the case status reverted back to “Administrative Processing” and even briefly showed “Application Received”—a step usually seen before interviews. By the end of the same day, the case returned to “Approved.”
On July 22, the visa status officially changed to “Issued,” concluding the tense waiting period. The student opted for premium delivery via Purolator and was awaiting the return of their passport with the newly issued visa.
Their experience serves as both a cautionary and informative guide for others going through the J-1 visa process. It also underscores how administrative processing, though frustrating, can still lead to approval within a week—especially if the applicant’s documentation is in order and the delay is procedural rather than security-related.