US London Embassy

The processing of the popular E-2 Treaty Investor visa at the US Embassy at London is currently running at approximately half the usual speed, a representative of the US Embassy in London has reported.

The explanation given is that the Embassy receives an increase in the overall number of applications at this time of year, pushing the average processing time for the E-2 visa up from 6-8 weeks to 12-15 weeks.

"London's processing times are similar to previous summers," said the representative. "Applicants should be advised that visa demand typically increases at all embassies and consulates worldwide during holiday seasons.

"For this reason we always encourage intending travellers to refrain from making irrevocable plans until they have been advised that they are eligible for a visa."

Visa consultants are urging that applicants take particular care to complete their applications accurately and strictly in accordance with immigration regulations. Some increased delays have been noticed with the E-2 Treaty Trader visa in particular, and applications are warned that small mistakes can lead to costly delays, or even the breakdown of the purchase of their US business.