The two largest US consular processors of H2 visas in Mexico have completed the changeover for the new processing system, the U.S. Consulate says. Effective Sept. 2, the consulates in Monterrey and Nuevo Laredo require all nonimmigrant visa applications to process through the Applicant Service Center (ASC).
Along with the changeover, increased fees will be instituted. The appointment fee is now $26, up from $5, and includes the cost of enrollment at the ASC as well as courier service for passback of approved visas.
The purpose of the ASC is to enroll visa applicants, take photographs, fingerprints and coordinate courier service before the interview appointment at the consulate. Relocating the visa enrollment process to the ACS will allow U.S. consulates General Monterrey and Nuevo Laredo to expand their visa processing capacity and meet H2 demand. Enrollment through this center has been required for most visa applicants since April 18, in Monterrey and March 24 in Nuevo Laredo.
The H2 applicants will visit the ASC one morning then visit the consulate the following morning for their visa interview. While the ACS is operated by a private contractor, the U.S. Consulate will continue to monitor its service and performance.
The ASC requires the use of the Consular Electronic Application Center. This online application form replaces the current electronic DS-156. All applicants, including H2 temporary workers, will be required to complete this form and attest to all its contents. The form is found at https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/. Once the CEAC has been completed, applicants can then schedule their appointments by going online to www.usvisa-mexico.com or by e-mailing h2bmex@csc.com.
E-mail monterreyh2visas@state.gov with questions or h2bmex@csc.com with specific scheduling questions.