What Does DOS Consider After Receiving a No Objection Statement?
The Waiver Review Division does more than verify that the foreign government does not object. State Department guidance describes case-by-case review of program, policy, and foreign-relations considerations before a recommendation is made.
Home-government consent is only one part of the analysis
The No Objection Statement establishes the foreign government's position but does not bind the Department of State.
DOS reviews the exchange program
The Department considers the program interests served by the original exchange and the reasons advanced for waiver.
Policy and foreign-relations considerations also matter
The Foreign Affairs Manual expressly identifies program, policy, and foreign-relations considerations in the waiver recommendation review.
U.S. government funding can be particularly important
DOS publicly states that waiver recommendation applications from exchange visitors who received U.S. government funding are generally denied because of program and foreign-policy considerations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does DOS simply approve a case when the embassy does not object?
No.
What broader considerations can DOS review?
Program, policy, and foreign-relations considerations.
Why can U.S. government funding matter?
It can reflect strong program interests against waiver.
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