Successfully navigating the National Visa Center (NVC) process often requires understanding how to effectively communicate your needs. An expedite request is a formal plea to the NVC to process your case faster than the standard timeframe. This is typically based on compelling humanitarian reasons, urgent medical needs, or other critical situations that warrant immediate attention. A well-crafted expedite request letter significantly increases your chances of approval.
The key to a successful expedite request lies in providing clear, concise, and compelling evidence. Avoid vague statements and general hardships. Instead, focus on specific details, quantify the impact of the delay, and provide supporting documentation such as medical reports, financial statements, or other relevant evidence. A well-organized and professionally written letter demonstrates the seriousness of your request.
Below are 21 sample expedite request letters. Remember to tailor each sample to your specific circumstances. Do not simply copy and paste. Replace the bracketed information with your own details and adjust the language to accurately reflect your situation. It is always a good idea to consult with an immigration attorney for personalized advice.
Please note: These samples are for illustrative purposes only and do not guarantee approval. Each case is evaluated individually based on its own merits. The inclusion of a particular reason in a sample letter does not imply that it is a universally accepted basis for an expedite request.
21 NVC Expedite Request Letter Samples
Sample Letter 1: Urgent Medical Condition of Beneficiary
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
National Visa Center
32 Rochester Avenue
Portsmouth, NH 03801-2909
Subject: Expedite Request – Case Number [NVC Case Number] – [Beneficiary’s Name]
Dear NVC Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of the immigrant visa application for my [relationship to beneficiary], [Beneficiary’s Name], Case Number [NVC Case Number]. My [relationship] is suffering from [medical condition] and requires immediate medical treatment in the United States.
[Provide detailed explanation of the medical condition, its severity, and the need for treatment in the US. Include supporting documentation like doctor’s letters and medical reports]. For instance, [Beneficiary’s Name] was recently diagnosed with [Specific Illness] and doctors in [Beneficiary’s Country] have advised that treatment options are limited. The prognosis is poor without access to specialized care available in the United States.
The attached letter from [Doctor’s Name], [Doctor’s Title] at [Hospital Name] outlines the urgency of the situation and the critical need for [Beneficiary’s Name] to receive treatment in the United States as soon as possible. We have also included [other relevant documentation, e.g., copies of medical records, I-134 Affidavit of Support, etc.].
We understand that the NVC processes a large volume of cases; however, given the critical medical condition of [Beneficiary’s Name], we respectfully request that you expedite the processing of this case. We are prepared to provide any further information or documentation you may require.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 2: Death of Beneficiary’s Immediate Family Member
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
National Visa Center
32 Rochester Avenue
Portsmouth, NH 03801-2909
Subject: Expedite Request – Case Number [NVC Case Number] – [Beneficiary’s Name]
Dear NVC Officer,
I am writing to respectfully request an expedited review of the immigrant visa application for my [relationship to beneficiary], [Beneficiary’s Name], Case Number [NVC Case Number]. Recently, [Beneficiary’s Relationship to Deceased] of [Beneficiary’s Name], [Deceased’s Name], passed away on [Date of Death].
The sudden loss of [Deceased’s Relationship to Beneficiary] has had a significant emotional and financial impact on [Beneficiary’s Name]. [Explain the specific impact, such as responsibility for funeral arrangements, care of dependent children, managing the deceased’s affairs, etc.]. For example, [Beneficiary’s Name] is now solely responsible for the care of their [number] minor siblings after the passing of their mother.
Attached is a copy of the [Deceased’s Name]’s death certificate as verification. We believe that allowing [Beneficiary’s Name] to join me in the United States during this difficult time would provide much-needed support and stability.
We understand the NVC has many cases, but the circumstances here are exceptional. We respectfully request an expedited review of this case so [Beneficiary’s Name] can be reunited with family. We are ready to supply any additional information or paperwork needed.
Thank you for your thoughtful consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 3: Humanitarian Reasons – Extreme Hardship
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
National Visa Center
32 Rochester Avenue
Portsmouth, NH 03801-2909
Subject: Expedite Request – Case Number [NVC Case Number] – [Beneficiary’s Name]
Dear NVC Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of the immigrant visa application for my [relationship to beneficiary], [Beneficiary’s Name], Case Number [NVC Case Number], due to extreme humanitarian reasons. [Beneficiary’s Name] is facing severe hardship in [Country].
[Specifically describe the hardship. This could involve political instability, violence, lack of access to basic necessities, or other severe circumstances. Be detailed and provide evidence]. For example, Due to ongoing political unrest in [Country], [Beneficiary’s Name] is facing credible threats to their safety. There have been several instances of violence in their neighborhood, and they fear for their life.
[Provide supporting documentation. This might include police reports, news articles, letters from organizations working in the area, etc.]. Attached are copies of news reports detailing the escalating violence in [City, Country] and a letter from [Organization Name] confirming the deteriorating security situation.
We believe that bringing [Beneficiary’s Name] to the United States is a matter of life and death. We implore you to expedite the processing of this case given the dire circumstances. We are available to provide any further documentation you may need.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 4: Medical Condition of the Petitioner
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
National Visa Center
32 Rochester Avenue
Portsmouth, NH 03801-2909
Subject: Expedite Request – Case Number [NVC Case Number] – [Beneficiary’s Name]
Dear NVC Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of the immigrant visa application for my [relationship to beneficiary], [Beneficiary’s Name], Case Number [NVC Case Number], due to my own deteriorating medical condition.
I have recently been diagnosed with [Medical Condition]. My doctors advise that I require [Specific treatment/Care]. My ability to care for myself is diminishing, and I need the support of [Beneficiary’s Name] to assist with [Specific tasks, e.g., daily living activities, medication management, etc.]. [Beneficiary’s Name] is the only person capable of providing this necessary care. Without their presence, I will be forced to [Explain the consequences, e.g., enter a nursing home, rely on expensive home care, etc.].
Attached is a letter from my physician, [Doctor’s Name], at [Hospital/Clinic Name], detailing my medical condition and the necessity of [Beneficiary’s Name]’s presence in the United States to provide care. I have also included [Other supporting documentation, e.g., medical bills, insurance information, etc.].
I understand the NVC is managing a large workload; however, my situation is critical. I respectfully request that you expedite the processing of [Beneficiary’s Name]’s visa so that they can provide me with the care I urgently need.
Thank you for your consideration and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 5: Financial Hardship – Petitioner’s Job Loss
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
National Visa Center
32 Rochester Avenue
Portsmouth, NH 03801-2909
Subject: Expedite Request – Case Number [NVC Case Number] – [Beneficiary’s Name]
Dear NVC Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of the immigrant visa application for my [relationship to beneficiary], [Beneficiary’s Name], Case Number [NVC Case Number], due to significant financial hardship resulting from my recent job loss.
I was recently laid off from my position at [Company Name] on [Date of Layoff] due to [Reason for Layoff, e.g., company downsizing, economic downturn, etc.]. As a result, my income has been significantly reduced, making it difficult to meet my financial obligations and provide adequate support. [Beneficiary’s Name]’s ability to work and contribute to the household income is crucial at this time.
[Explain how the beneficiary’s presence in the U.S. will alleviate the financial hardship. Will they be able to work? Will they be able to provide childcare to allow you to seek employment?]. For instance, [Beneficiary’s Name] has experience in [Beneficiary’s Profession] and is confident they can quickly find employment, which would significantly alleviate the financial burden we are facing.
Attached is a copy of my termination letter from [Company Name] and [Other supporting documents, e.g., unemployment benefits statement, bank statements, etc.] to verify my current financial situation.
Given these circumstances, I respectfully request that you expedite the processing of [Beneficiary’s Name]’s visa. Their presence and ability to work in the United States are essential to our family’s financial stability.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 6: Financial Hardship – Beneficiary’s Family Needs Support
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
National Visa Center
32 Rochester Avenue
Portsmouth, NH 03801-2909
Subject: Expedite Request – Case Number [NVC Case Number] – [Beneficiary’s Name]
Dear NVC Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of the immigrant visa application for my [relationship to beneficiary], [Beneficiary’s Name], Case Number [NVC Case Number], due to severe financial hardship faced by [Beneficiary’s Name]’s family in their home country.
[Beneficiary’s Name]’s family in [Country] is currently experiencing extreme financial difficulties due to [Explain the reasons for the hardship: e.g., job loss, natural disaster, illness, etc.]. Specifically, [Beneficiary’s Name]’s [family member] is suffering from a serious medical condition, [Specific Illness], and requires expensive medical treatment that they cannot afford.
[Explain the impact of the delay on the beneficiary’s family. Why is the beneficiary’s presence in the US needed to help?]. The delay in [Beneficiary’s Name]’s arrival in the United States is preventing them from working and sending much-needed financial support to their family. They are desperately needed to provide for their [family member’s] medical expenses and basic needs.
Attached are [Supporting documents: e.g., medical reports, letters from family members, bank statements showing financial need, etc.] to substantiate the claims of financial hardship. We believe that [Beneficiary’s Name]’s timely arrival in the United States will significantly alleviate their family’s suffering.
We understand the workload of the NVC, but the situation is critical. We earnestly request an expedited review of [Beneficiary’s Name]’s visa so they can support their family.
Thank you for considering this urgent matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 7: Child’s Critical Medical Needs
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
National Visa Center
32 Rochester Avenue
Portsmouth, NH 03801-2909
Subject: Expedite Request – Case Number [NVC Case Number] – [Beneficiary’s Name]
Dear NVC Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of the immigrant visa application for my [relationship to beneficiary], [Beneficiary’s Name], Case Number [NVC Case Number], due to the urgent medical needs of our [relationship] child, [Child’s Name].
[Child’s Name] is suffering from a serious medical condition, [Specific Medical Condition], which requires specialized medical care only available in the United States. [Explain the severity of the condition and the potential consequences of delaying treatment]. Without timely access to this specialized care, [Child’s Name]’s health will severely deteriorate.
The doctors in [Country] have recommended that [Child’s Name] receive treatment at [Hospital Name] in [City, State] as soon as possible. The treatment plan includes [Specific Treatments], which are crucial for [Child’s Name]’s recovery.
Attached is a letter from [Doctor’s Name] at [Hospital Name] detailing [Child’s Name]’s medical condition and the need for immediate treatment in the United States. We have also included [Other supporting documents: e.g., medical records, diagnosis reports, treatment plan, etc.].
We understand the NVC processes a high volume of cases, but [Child’s Name]’s life depends on receiving this treatment promptly. We urgently request that you expedite the processing of [Beneficiary’s Name]’s visa to allow us to bring [Child’s Name] to the United States for the necessary medical care.
Thank you for your time, consideration, and understanding of this critical situation.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 8: Petitioner’s Military Deployment
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
National Visa Center
32 Rochester Avenue
Portsmouth, NH 03801-2909
Subject: Expedite Request – Case Number [NVC Case Number] – [Beneficiary’s Name]
Dear NVC Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of the immigrant visa application for my [relationship to beneficiary], [Beneficiary’s Name], Case Number [NVC Case Number], due to my upcoming military deployment.
I am a member of the [Branch of Military] and have received orders to deploy to [Location] on [Date of Deployment]. This deployment will last for [Duration of Deployment]. It is imperative that my [relationship to beneficiary], [Beneficiary’s Name], be able to join me in the United States before I deploy.
[Explain the hardship caused by the potential separation during deployment. Will the beneficiary be alone and unable to manage things in the home country? Will the petitioner worry constantly about the beneficiary’s safety and well-being?]. For example, [Beneficiary’s Name] will be left alone in [Country] without any family support. Furthermore, my anxiety about their safety while deployed will significantly impact my ability to focus on my duties.
Attached is a copy of my military orders as verification of my upcoming deployment. We would be deeply grateful if you could expedite the processing of [Beneficiary’s Name]’s visa so we can be together before I leave.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter and your support of our military families.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 9: Petitioner’s Advanced Age and Need for Care
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
National Visa Center
32 Rochester Avenue
Portsmouth, NH 03801-2909
Subject: Expedite Request – Case Number [NVC Case Number] – [Beneficiary’s Name]
Dear NVC Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of the immigrant visa application for my [relationship to beneficiary], [Beneficiary’s Name], Case Number [NVC Case Number], due to my advanced age and increasing need for care.
I am currently [Age] years old and my health has been declining in recent years. I am experiencing difficulties with [Specific Activities: e.g., mobility, cooking, cleaning, bathing, etc.] and require assistance with daily living activities. [Beneficiary’s Name], my [relationship to beneficiary], is the only person who can provide me with the necessary care and support.
[Explain why other family members are unable to provide care or why professional care is not a viable option]. I do not have other family members living nearby who can assist me, and the cost of hiring a professional caregiver is beyond my financial means.
Attached is a letter from my physician, [Doctor’s Name], outlining my health condition and the need for assistance. I have also included [Supporting documents: e.g., copies of medical records, proof of age, financial statements]. We respectfully request expedited processing of this case given my vulnerable condition.
Thank you for your understanding and compassion.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 10: Beneficiary’s Orphaned Sibling(s) Need Care
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
National Visa Center
32 Rochester Avenue
Portsmouth, NH 03801-2909
Subject: Expedite Request – Case Number [NVC Case Number] – [Beneficiary’s Name]
Dear NVC Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of the immigrant visa application for my [relationship to beneficiary], [Beneficiary’s Name], Case Number [NVC Case Number]. [Beneficiary’s Name]’s [relationship to deceased], [Deceased’s Name] (mother/father/parents) recently passed away, leaving their minor sibling(s) orphaned and in need of immediate care.
The death of [Deceased’s Name] has left [Number] minor children, [Children’s Names and Ages], without parental care. [Beneficiary’s Name] is the only available relative who can provide the necessary care, support, and legal guardianship for their sibling(s).
[Explain the current living situation of the orphaned siblings. Are they living alone? Are they with relatives who cannot provide adequate care?]. The children are currently living with [Relative’s Name], who is elderly and unable to provide the necessary care and supervision. Their well-being is at serious risk.
Attached is a copy of the [Deceased’s Name]’s death certificate, birth certificates of the orphaned siblings, and a letter from [Social Worker/Community Leader] verifying the situation. We implore you to expedite [Beneficiary’s Name]’s visa processing so they can assume responsibility for their orphaned sibling(s) and provide them with a safe and stable home.
Thank you for your urgent attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 11: Business Owner Facing Bankruptcy
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
National Visa Center
32 Rochester Avenue
Portsmouth, NH 03801-2909
Subject: Expedite Request – Case Number [NVC Case Number] – [Beneficiary’s Name]
Dear NVC Officer,
I am writing to respectfully request an expedited review of the immigrant visa application for my [relationship to beneficiary], [Beneficiary’s Name], Case Number [NVC Case Number], due to the imminent risk of bankruptcy facing my business.
I own and operate [Business Name], a [Type of Business] located in [City, State]. Due to [Specific Economic Challenges, e.g., economic downturn, increased competition, unforeseen expenses, etc.], my business is facing severe financial difficulties. Without immediate assistance, I will be forced to declare bankruptcy, which will result in the loss of [Number] jobs and significant financial hardship for my family and employees.
[Beneficiary’s Name] possesses unique skills and experience in [Beneficiary’s Skills/Experience] that are crucial to the survival and potential turnaround of my business. Their expertise in [Specific Task] will enable me to [Explain How Their Skills Will Help, e.g., improve efficiency, reduce costs, expand into new markets, etc.]. Their ability to contribute to the business is critical at this time.
Attached are [Supporting Documents, e.g., financial statements, business plan, letters of support from clients, etc.] to demonstrate the dire financial situation of my business and the unique skills [Beneficiary’s Name] brings to the table. We respectfully request expedited processing of this case so [Beneficiary’s Name] can help save my business and protect the livelihoods of my employees.
Thank you for considering this urgent matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 12: Abandoned Children in Beneficiary’s Care
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
National Visa Center
32 Rochester Avenue
Portsmouth, NH 03801-2909
Subject: Expedite Request – Case Number [NVC Case Number] – [Beneficiary’s Name]
Dear NVC Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of the immigrant visa application for my [relationship to beneficiary], [Beneficiary’s Name], Case Number [NVC Case Number], due to the fact that [Beneficiary’s Name] is the sole caregiver for [Number] abandoned children.
[Beneficiary’s Name] is currently caring for [Number] children, [Children’s Ages], who were abandoned by their parents due to [Reasons for Abandonment, e.g., poverty, illness, death, etc.]. [Beneficiary’s Name] is struggling to provide for their basic needs, including food, shelter, clothing, and education.
[Explain the specific challenges faced by the beneficiary in providing for the children. Are they facing financial hardship? Are the children lacking access to essential services?]. For example, [Beneficiary’s Name] is working multiple jobs to make ends meet, but it is not enough to provide the children with adequate nutrition and access to schooling.
Attached are [Supporting Documents, e.g., letters from social workers, birth certificates of the children, photographs of the living conditions, etc.] to verify the children’s abandoned status and the hardship faced by [Beneficiary’s Name]. We implore you to expedite [Beneficiary’s Name]’s visa processing so they can come to the United States and provide a better life for these vulnerable children.
Thank you for your understanding and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 13: Risk of Political Violence/Instability
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
National Visa Center
32 Rochester Avenue
Portsmouth, NH 03801-2909
Subject: Expedite Request – Case Number [NVC Case Number] – [Beneficiary’s Name]
Dear NVC Officer,
I am writing to respectfully request an expedited review of the immigrant visa application for my [relationship to beneficiary], [Beneficiary’s Name], Case Number [NVC Case Number], due to the escalating political violence and instability in [Beneficiary’s Country].
The situation in [Beneficiary’s Country] has deteriorated significantly in recent months, with increasing reports of [Specific Threats, e.g., political persecution, civil unrest, armed conflict, etc.]. [Beneficiary’s Name] is at serious risk due to [Reasons for Vulnerability, e.g., ethnicity, political affiliation, religious beliefs, etc.].
[Explain the specific dangers faced by the beneficiary. Have they been threatened? Have they witnessed violence? Are they being targeted by authorities?]. For instance, [Beneficiary’s Name] has received credible death threats due to their [Political Affiliation/Beliefs] and fears for their safety.
Attached are [Supporting Documents, e.g., news reports, human rights reports, affidavits from witnesses, police reports, etc.] to demonstrate the deteriorating security situation in [Beneficiary’s Country] and the specific threats faced by [Beneficiary’s Name]. We implore you to expedite [Beneficiary’s Name]’s visa processing to ensure their safety and well-being.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this urgent matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample Letter 14: Natural Disaster – Loss of Home/Livelihood
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
National Visa Center
32 Rochester Avenue
Portsmouth, NH 03801-2909
Subject: Expedite Request – Case Number [NVC Case Number] – [Beneficiary’s Name]
Dear NVC Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of the immigrant visa application for my [relationship to beneficiary], [Beneficiary’s Name], Case Number [NVC Case Number], due to the devastating impact of [Name of Natural Disaster, e.g., earthquake, hurricane, flood, etc.] in [Beneficiary’s Country].
[Beneficiary’s Name] has lost their home and livelihood as a result of the [Name of Natural Disaster]. They are currently displaced and lacking access to
