Obtaining a U.S. Visa
DESTINATION USA
Secure Borders. Open Doors.
A step-by-step outline of today's
U.S. visa application procedures
1
If you have access to the Internet, visit
www.UnitedStatesVisas.gov. This Web site has
been created to help you find the information
about current visa policy and procedures quickly
and easily, based on your own situation and cir-
cumstance. Whether you are a student, a sponsor, a tourist, or a business
traveler, this Web site can serve as a useful first stop on your journey.
There are many different types of visas, and this site can help you determine
which kind you need and how to obtain it. If you do not have access
to the Internet, contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for further
information.
2 Make an appointment to visit the U.S.Embassy or Consulate.Visa appli-
cation procedures vary somewhat among Embassies and Consulates,
depending on local needs. In most countries, you will need to make an
appointment. This can be done by telephone, mail, over the Internet, or in
person, depending on circumstances in your country.Wait times for appoint-
ments may be longer than in the past. Schedule your appointment as soon as
you know you need to travel to the U.S.
Be sure to ask what fees are required and how they
can be paid. Application fees are non-refundable
and must be paid before your appointment.
For years the United States of America has required that many
people wishing to travel to the U.S. to study, visit or conduct
business first obtain a visa. Recently, the U.S., like many other
countries, has updated visa policies to increase security for
citizens and visitors. Yet, much remains unchanged.
Today, as in the past, most travelers to the U.S. must obtain a visa.The process still includes application
forms and interviews as well as the collection and cross-checking of names in a highly sophisticated
inter-agency database. As a visa applicant today, it is important that you recognize that these
name-checking and registration processes are necessary and crucial element