A hardware problem in the US State Department’s computer system has hit US visa issuing processes across the globe, an official has said. As a result, all visa interviews between June 22 and 26 at US consulates in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai and Hyderabad have been cancelled. The US embassy has said that the interviews will be rescheduled.
The US Embassy in New Delhi said, “This is a global issue, and we are working around the clock to fix it. More than 100 computer experts from both the private and public sectors across the United States are working on this problem 24/7. That said, we do not expect the system will be online before next week. Unfortunately, this has caused a serious delay in our operations.”
“The Bureau of Consular affairs is facing some technical problems with the visa systems. This is a global issue, and we’re working around the clock to fix it,” State Department spokesman John Kirby told reporters.
The problem stems from a hardware failure. “That failure right now is preventing the Department from processing and transmitting the mandatory security-related biometric data checks at our embassies and consulates,” said State Department spokesman Kirby.
“Certainly we regret this inconvenience to travelers, recognise that this is causing hardship for those that are waiting for visas, and in some cases their family members or employers in the United States,” he said.
Noting that it is very much a security issue, he said, “That’s why we’re taking it so seriously. So we’re going to get it done, we’re going to get it done right, and we’re not going to rush as well...We’re working on this as fast as we can, but it’s important to get it done right. Of course, we’re going to continue to post regular updates on our website,” Kirby said.