Visa Services

IMMPORTANT INFORMATION Make your appointment today by visiting how to apply page. As per November 1, 2006, all visa applicants must submit visa applications using the on-line DS-156 Electronic Visa Application Form (EVAF). Handwritten or typed applications will no longer be accepted. This timesaving tool will speed processing of your application and decrease wait-time at the Embassy. Have you Forgotten to Turn in Your I-94 Departure Card?

General Information

What is a visa?

A visa is permission to apply to enter the United States. A visa is issued by a U.S. Embassy or Consulate and entitles the holder to travel to the United States and apply for admission. A Consular Officer decides whether an applicant is qualified for a visa. The visa allows a foreign citizen to travel to a port-of-entry in the United States, such as an international airport, seaport or land border crossing. At the port-of-entry, an officer of the Department of Homeland Security decides whether to allow the applicant to enter and how long he/she may stay. For more information on visas please visit the Consular Affairs website http://travel.state.gov/.

Citizens of certain countries may be able to travel without a visa on the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) if they meet certain conditions. Travelers who qualify to participate in the Visa Waiver Program should be advised that on June 3, 2008, the Department of Homeland Security announced the Interim Final Rule to implement the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).  More information on this announcement is available at this website:  http://www.dhs.gov/xnews/releases/pr_1212498186436.shtm.  All travelers who qualify for VWP are recommended before making travel plans to consult the Department of Homeland Security website http://www.dhs.gov/ for any updates on the implementation of the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).

Non-Immigrant Visa Types

• Business, Tourist, Visitors and Medical

• Student Visas (F and M)

• Exchange Visitors (J)

• Temporary Workers

• Temporary Religious Workers

• Treaty Traders and Treaty Investors

• Foreign Media