H-1B Visa Stamping at U.S. Post Vancouver

Wait times at Vancouver track the canada third bucket published by the State Department. They fluctuate by ±50% within weeks. Use the live calculator on /visa-stamping for the current bucket median plus a 221(g) probability overlay. Interview-waiver (Dropbox) waits are typically 60-75% shorter than interview-required waits when you're eligible.

Under the 2024+ rules: prior visa must be in the same class, expired no more than 12 months ago, no prior 221(g), and not a first-time applicant. Class changes (e.g., H-4 to H-1B) disqualify even if all other criteria are met. Document drop-off at Vancouver: VAC — Vancouver.

The State Department materially narrowed third-country processing eligibility on September 6, 2025. Most Indian and Chinese H-1B workers are no longer eligible to stamp at Canadian or Mexican posts and must return to their home country. Canada citizens and permanent residents may still be eligible. Verify your specific situation against the current State Department FAQ before booking flights.

Section 221(g) is a "provisional refusal pending administrative processing" — typically Security Advisory Opinion (Visas Mantis), employer/role verification, or document follow-up. Resolution can take 14 days to several months. You cannot return to the United States on your prior visa stamp during this period. Plan total funds and runway accordingly — see /departure-cost and /runway-calculator.

Standard H-1B documentation: DS-160 confirmation, MRV fee receipt, appointment confirmation, valid passport, prior visa stamp (if any), current I-797 approval, employer support letter (recent, with role/salary/start date), recent pay stubs (3 months), employment-verification letter, client letter or end-client information if applicable, education credentials, and a copy of the LCA. Bring originals plus one photocopy of each. Generate a customized day-of document script at /stamping-action-plan.

For interview-required cases: arrive 30 minutes before your appointment time. Earlier is generally not allowed — security may turn you away. Bring no electronics. For Dropbox/VAC submissions: arrive at the VAC during posted hours; the VFS system runs on its own schedule and tends to be efficient if your packet is complete.