Washington, United States: A hardware problem in the State Department's computer system has hit America's visa issuing processes across the globe, an official has said.
"The Bureau of Consular affairs is facing some technical problems with the visa systems. This is a global issue, and we're working around the clock to fix it," State Department spokesman John Kirby told reporters on Wednesday.
In fact, more than 100 computer experts from both the private and public sectors across the US are working on this, he said.
"We don't expect that the system will be online before next week," he said.
The problem stems from a hardware failure. "That failure right now is preventing the Department from processing and transmitting the mandatory security-related biometric data checks at our embassies and consulates," Mr Kirby said.
"Certainly we regret this inconvenience to travelers, recognize that this is causing hardship for those that are waiting for visas, and in some cases their family members or employers in the United States," he said.
Noting that it is very much a security issue, he said, "That's why we're taking it so seriously. So we're going to get it done, we're going to get it done right, and we're not going to rush as well."
"We're working on this as fast as we can, but it's important to get it done right. Of course, we're going to continue to post regular updates on our website," Mr Kirby said.
"The Bureau of Consular affairs is facing some technical problems with the visa systems. This is a global issue, and we're working around the clock to fix it," State Department spokesman John Kirby told reporters on Wednesday.
In fact, more than 100 computer experts from both the private and public sectors across the US are working on this, he said.
The problem stems from a hardware failure. "That failure right now is preventing the Department from processing and transmitting the mandatory security-related biometric data checks at our embassies and consulates," Mr Kirby said.
Advertisement
Noting that it is very much a security issue, he said, "That's why we're taking it so seriously. So we're going to get it done, we're going to get it done right, and we're not going to rush as well."
Advertisement
COMMENTS
Advertisement
Joe Biden Is The Best Person To Take On Trump, Says His Campaign 7.4- Magnitude Earthquake Hits Northern Chile Biden Nears Crunch Point As Pressure Grows To Drop Out Of White House Race Israeli Jets Strike Yemen Rebels After Deadly Attack On Tel Aviv Woman On Scooter With 2 Kids Punched, Left Bleeding In Pune Road Rage Case The 'Fake' CrowdStrike Worker Who Took Credit For Biggest-Ever IT Outage At Least 20 Killed, Dozens Missing As Flash Floods Hit China: Report Hezbollah, Hamas Say Fired Rockets, Explosive-Laden Drones At Israel US Slams ICJ's Opinion On Israeli Occupation Of Palestinian Territories Track Latest News Live on NDTV.com and get news updates from India and around the world.