Critical Information for All Visa Applicants

Due to a variety of procedural factors, U.S. Consulates are unable to guarantee the issuance of a U.S. visa before a fixed travel date. You should never pay for travel arrangements before you have a visa in your possession. The U.S. Consulate General accepts no responsibility if you do so.

Immigrant Visas - For those intending to become permanent residents in the United States.

Non-Immigrant Visas - For those intending a temporary stay.

Visa Waiver Program - For information about travel to the United States without a visa and the 'ESTA' program.

Customer Service Statement to Visa Applicants

The Department of State manages the visa process strictly but fairly in order to best protect the United States.  We are committed to the essential openness for which the United States has always been known.  Travel to the United States is welcomed and encouraged. Read more athttp://www.travel.state.gov/visa/visa_2796.html

Safety & Security of U.S. Borders:  Biometrics

The United States is committed to “secure borders, open doors,” by welcoming and facilitating legitimate travel to the United States by international visitors while maintaining the integrity and security of our borders and our nation. The U.S. continues to work to ensure that access to our country is not impeded for legitimate international travelers. Read more at: http://travel.state.gov/visa/immigrants/info/info_1336.html. 

Further Information:

Department of State homepage: http://www.state.gov/

United States Government: http://www.usa.gov

Department of Homeland Security:

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has various agencies. Please refer to these websites for assistance with a DHS-administered program. Read more at http://www.dhs.gov

US-VISIT supports the Department of Homeland Security's responsibility to protect the nation by providing biometric identification services that help federal, state, and local government decision makers accurately identify the people they encounter and determine whether those people pose a risk to the United States. US-VISIT supplies the technology for collecting and storing biometric data, provides analysis, updates its watchlist, and ensures the integrity of the data. http://www.dhs.gov/files/programs/usv.shtm

USCIS provides information on immigration to the United States: http://uscis.gov

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has a responsibility for securing the border and facilitating lawful international trade and travel while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws and regulations, including immigration and drug laws.  Read more at: http://cbp.gov/

The Traveler Redress Inquiry Program (DHS TRIP) is a single point of contact for individuals who have inquiries or seek resolution regarding difficulties they experienced during their travel screening at transportation hubs—like airports and train stations—or crossing U.S. borders. DHS TRIP is part of an effort by the departments of State and Homeland Security to welcome legitimate travelers while still securing our country from those who want to do us harm. Read more at: http://www.dhs.gov/files/programs/gc_1169676919316.shtm