International Services
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
International Services Homepage
Where Do I Apply for a Visitor Visa?
Applicants for visitor visas should generally apply at the American
Embassy or Consulate with jurisdiction over their place of permanent
residence. Although visa applicants may apply at any U.S. consular office
abroad, it may be more difficult to qualify for the visa outside the country
of permanent residence.
What are the required documents?
Each applicant for a visitor visa must submit these forms and
documentation, and submit fees as explained below:
- An application, Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-156, completed
and signed. The DS-156 must be the February 2003 date, either the electronic
"e-form application" or the non-electronic version. You may also check with
the Embassy Consular Section where you will apply to determine if the
hard-copy DS-156 blank form is available, should you need it.
- A Supplemental Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-157 provides
additional information about your travel plans. Submission of this completed
form is required for all male applicants between 16-45 years of age.
- A passport valid for travel to the United States and with a validity
date at least six months beyond the applicant's intended period of stay in
the United States. If more than one person is included in the passport, each
person desiring a visa must make an application;
- One (1) 2x2 photograph
What are the Required Fees?
- Nonimmigrant visa application processing fee - Each applicant for a
visitor visa must pay a nonrefundable US $100 nonimmigrant visa application
processing fee.
- Visa issuance fee – Additionally, if the visa is issued, there will be
an additional visa issuance reciprocity fee, if applicable.
Is there Additional Documentation?
It is important that you refer to the Embassy Consular Section web site
to determine visa processing timeframes and instructions, to learn about
interview scheduling, and find out if there are any additional documentation
items required
Applicants must demonstrate that they can be classifiable as visitors
under U.S. law by:
- Providing evidence which shows the purpose of the trip, intent to
depart the United States that arrangements are made to cover the costs of
the trip. It is impossible to specify the exact form the documentation
should take since applicants' circumstances vary greatly.
- Providing convincing evidence that an interested person will provide
support if no other evidence of sufficient funding is available.
- Providing other documentation substantiating the trip's purpose and
specifying the nature of binding obligations, such as family ties or
employment, which would compel their return abroad.
How do I apply for a U.S. Driver's License or State identification Card?
Driver's
Licenses for Foreign Nationals.pdf
Last Modified: July 27, 2009
Please forward all questions about this site to:
Christine Sanfilippo
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