So it seems Sydney is standing by their decision to re-issue expired DV visas. Although they still refuse to actually say it in so many words.
The 'per the below' email they are referring to was our previous email, where they instructed us to send back our passports and forms with a new medical and visa fees in order to re-issue the visas. We simply replied to that email as it was sent to us before the ban was extended.
I understand they don't want to flat out say yes you can get a new visa, but we were trying to get them to say yes you are still
eligible for a new visa.
Still I assume this is government speak for 'yes we can'?
**********
Good Afternoon,
Could we please have confirmation that we are still able to reissue our immigrant visa as per the email below. We are looking to book in our medicals but understand there is a current ban on immigration to the US, that our previous visas were exempt from.
We would like confirmation that the process of reissuing the visas is still available to us before we book, undertake or pay for any of these requirements.
Our case ID is 2020OC***, and our A-Numbers are A***, A*** and A***
Thank you again,
***************
Thank you for your email.
Per the below, please send your documents for visa reissuance. Keep in mind, payments made or received in Australian dollars are subject to the current official exchange rate which is subject to change without notice. To find out the Australian amount equivalent, please refer to USTravelDocs. Do not calculate your own USD to AUD conversion.
Thank you,
Immigrant Visa Unit (cc)
U.S. Consulate General, Sydney