Starting tomorrow, March 17, 2020, the U.S. Embassy and all Consulates General in Canada are cancelling all routine nonimmigrant visa appointments. As noted in the Mission Canada Change in Operations Due to COVID-19 announcement, the Consulate General in Montreal continues to process immigrant visas for the time being. However, it anticipates that this could change depending on staffing capacity and host government restrictions. Our office believes that if this change occurs, it could either result in a reduction of routine immigrant visa appointments, or a temporary halt of all visa processing.  Mission Canada promises to “notify applicants as quickly as possible should it be necessary to reschedule,” and to “resume routine nonimmigrant visa services as soon as possible.” No specific date is given for the resumption of services.

If you have an urgent matter and need to travel immediately, the U.S. Department of State urges individuals to follow the guidance provided at https://ais.usvisa-info.com/en-ca/niv to request an emergency appointment.

Lippes Mathias is closely monitoring the evolving situation for travelers and foreign nationals in or coming to the U.S. Please check back regularly for updates.