FAQ
Can I collect my passport in person?
It is not possible to collect your passport in person from the Embassy or Consulate. As soon as your application has been processed, your passport will be handed to the courier service for delivery.
Tracking the Delivery of the Passport
As soon as the processing of your application has been completed, your passport will be handed to the courier company for delivery and they will email you a tacking number. You can use this number to track your delivery by signing into your account online at the US Consulate.
We cannot answer any questions concerning the delivery. Applicants choose how their passport is returned to them as part of the appointment booking process. If you change your address or the location of the delivery, or cannot remember where your passport is to be delivered, you must contact the Visa Appointment Service.
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The Interview
Interviews are by appointment only. Applicants aged 14 – 79 are required to appear in person for an interview with a consular officer. You are required to bring your Appointment Confirmation letter with you. You will not be admitted more than 30 minutes prior to the time shown and arriving too late may result in the cancellation of your appointment. You can expect to be at the Embassy or Consulate for approximately two to three hours.
The interview with a consular officer is the last step in a two-step process and typically lasts just a few minutes. Prior to the interview staff will collect, data-enter and review your application. A set of your fingerprints will be electronically scanned. If you have a cut or blister on any of your fingers or thumbs, your application will not be processed. You will be required to reschedule an appointment for a later date.
Processing Times & Return of Passport
Successful applications take 7 – 10 workdays to process before the passport is handed to the courier for delivery and a further 2 workdays should be allowed for delivery.
If you were advised at your interview that your application was refused under Section 221(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) pending additional processing, you should allow approximately 60 days from the date of the visa interview for your application to be processed. In some cases however, processing can take six months or longer.
If you were advised at the interview that a waiver of ineligibility is required before the visa can be issued, you can expect your application to take between 6 to 8 months to process from the date of the interview. Incomplete applications will take longer.
The US Consulate cannot guarantee visa issuance or visa processing times in advance. All processing periods quoted are estimates only. If you require a visa, we recommend that you apply well in advance of your intended travel date and do not make non-refundable travel arrangements until you have been issued a visa and are in receipt of your passport.
Where to Apply
Nonimmigrant visas are processed at the U.S. Consulate in your home country. If you are in a different country and have the legal right to reside there, you may apply there as well but your waiting time may be longer.
How to Apply
Applicants aged 14 – 79 are required to apply for a visa in person through a pre-arranged interview. Applicants under 14 or 80 and over may be eligible to apply by courier, depending on the country where you are applying.
If you are applying for a visa for the first time, or are applying to renew a visa, you are required to take these same steps.
1. Complete the online form and print the confirmation page for each person applying for a visa, regardless of age. Answer the questions to the best of your ability; we cannot assist you in completing the form.
2. Go to your Embassy's website to pay the MRV application fee and schedule an interview, or obtain information on applying for the visa by courier.
Click on “Apply” if you are a first time user or “Continue” if you already have an account.
In general, travellers in transit through the United States require valid C-1 Transit visas.
Do I need a Visa?
Where to Apply
How to Apply
Processing Times & Return of Passport
The Interview
FAQ
Do I need a Visa?
You require a visa to travel to the United States unless you are eligible to enter the United States visa free under the Visa Waiver Program, or you are a citizen of Canada or Bermuda.
A visa is also required if you applied for travel authorization under the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) and your registration has been denied.