Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
On this page:
- FAQ - General Visa Information
- FAQ - Visa Refusals
- FAQ - Business/Tourist Visa
- FAQ - Work Visa
- FAQ - Student Visa
- FAQ - Exchange Visitor Visa
- FAQ - Transit/Ship Crew Visa
- FAQ - Religious Worker Visa
- FAQ - Visas for Children
- FAQ - Interview Waiver & Visa Renewal
- FAQ - F, M, and Academic J Visa Processing and Expansion of Interview Waiver During COVID-19
- FAQ - Track My Passport
- FAQ - Premium Delivery Services
- FAQ - Visa Document Packets and the Modernized Immigrant Visa (MIV)
- FAQ - Application Profile
- FAQ - Relief for Individuals Refused Under P.P.9645
FAQ - General Visa Information
- How long does my passport have to be valid in order to apply for a U. S. visa?
- Do I qualify for the Visa Waiver Program?
- What is the fee for ESTA and who has to pay it?
- If I travel to the United States without ESTA, what happens?
- If I am a third-country national living in Nepal, can I apply for a nonimmigrant visa in Nepal?
- Do all nonimmigrant visa applicants have to come to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate for an interview?
- I have a nonimmigrant visa that will expire soon and I would like to renew it. Do I need to go through the whole visa application process again?
- My passport has expired, but the U.S. visa in it is still valid. Do I need to apply for a new visa?
- I have dual citizenship. Which passport should I use to travel to the United States?
- What if I am a U.S. citizen dual national and I would like to apply for a U.S. visa in my non-U.S. passport?
- Can my dual citizen child go to the U.S. using his/her foreign passport? Which passport should my dual-citizen child use to enter/exit the United States?
- How can I extend my visa?
- Must I submit my visa application form electronically?
- What is "administrative processing?"
- How do I read and understand my visa?
- My visa will expire while I am in the United States. Is there a problem with that?
- What will happen when I enter the United States?
- I did not turn in my I-94 when I left the United States. What should I do?
- I have questions on submitting my DS-160 and printing the confirmation page. Where can I go for more information?
- I changed my name. Is my U.S. visa with my old name still valid?
- What information do I need to provide about social media while filling out the DS-160 form?
Q.1 How long does my passport have to be valid in order to apply for a U. S. visa?
You must possess a passport valid for travel to the United States with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the United States (unless country-specific agreements provide exemptions).
Q.2 Do I qualify for the Visa Waiver Program?
You qualify for the Visa Waiver Program if you are a citizen of a Visa Waiver Program country, possess a machine-readable passport, are traveling for temporary business or a visit of less than 90 days, meet other program requirements, and have obtained an authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).
You must be a citizen of a Visa Waiver Program-eligible country in order to use this program. Permanent residents of VWP-eligible countries do not qualify for the Visa Waiver Program unless they are also citizens of VWP-eligible countries. We recommend you visit the Visa Waiver Program website before any travel to the United States to determine if you are eligible for the VWP.
Q.3 What is the fee for ESTA and who has to pay it?
ESTA registration is required for all travelers to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. There is a fee for ESTA registration. The fee can be paid online using a debit card or any of the following credit cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover. Third parties (travel agents, family members, etc.) can pay your ESTA fee for you if you do not have the correct type of credit card. If the ESTA registration is denied, the fee can be found here.
Q.4 If I travel to the United States without ESTA, what happens?
Visa Waiver Program travelers who have not obtained approval through ESTA should expect to be denied boarding on any air carrier bound for the United States. If you are allowed to board, you can expect to encounter significant delays and possible denial of admission at the U.S. port of entry (i.e., arrival airport). ESTA registration usually only takes a few minutes to complete, authorization often arrives in seconds, and it is valid for two years, unless the traveler’s passport expires within that two-year period. In those cases, ESTA validity is limited to the passport’s validity.
Q.5 If I am a third-country national living in Nepal, can I apply for a nonimmigrant visa in Nepal?
Applicants are generally advised to apply in their country of nationality or residence. Any person who is legally present in Nepal may apply for a visa in Nepal. However, applicants should decide where to apply based on more than just convenience or delay in getting an appointment in their home district. One thing to consider, for example, is in which consular district the applicant can demonstrate the strongest ties.
There is no guarantee that a visa will be issued, nor is there a guarantee of processing time. If refused, there is no refund of the application fee.
Q.6 Do all nonimmigrant visa applicants have to come to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate for an interview?
Yes, for most applicants. There are only a few exceptions to the interview requirement. For details on visa classes exempted from the Interview, please visit “Interview Waiver & Visa Renewal” and “Visas for Children”. The following applicants generally do not have to appear in person:
- Applicants for A-1, A-2 (official travelers on central government business), C-2, C-3 (central government officials in transit on central government business) or G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4 (central government officials traveling in connection with an international organization, or employees of an international organization)
Q.7 I have a nonimmigrant visa that will expire soon and I would like to renew it. Do I need to go through the whole visa application process again?
Each nonimmigrant visa application is a separate process. You must apply in the normal manner, even if you had a visa before and even if your current nonimmigrant visa is still valid.
Q.8 My passport has expired, but the U.S. visa in it is still valid. Do I need to apply for a new visa?
No. If your visa is still valid you can travel to the United States with your two passports (old and new), as long as the visa is valid, not damaged, and is the appropriate type of visa required for your principal purpose of travel. (Example: tourist visa, when your principal purpose of travel is tourism). Also, the name and other personal data should be the same in both passports. Your nationality, as indicated in the new passport, must be the same as that shown in the passport bearing the visa.
Q.9 I have dual citizenship. Which passport should I use to travel to the United States?
If one of your nationalities is not American, you can apply using whichever nationality you prefer, but you must disclose all nationalities to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate on your application form. U.S. citizens, even dual citizens/nationals, must enter and depart the United States using a U.S. passport.
Q.10 What if I am a U.S. citizen dual national and I would like to apply for a U.S. visa in my non-U.S. passport?
While the United States allows for dual (or multiple) nationality, there are some requirements that U.S. citizen dual nationals must follow, regardless of whether they hold another nationality:
- You must enter and leave the United States on your U.S. passport. You are not allowed to enter on your foreign passport, because U.S. law requires all U.S. citizens to enter and depart the U.S. on a valid U.S. passport. U.S. citizens are not eligible for a U.S. visa.
- If your child is a citizen of the United States, they are not eligible for a U.S. visa. This is true even if you have not taken steps to document them as a U.S. citizen. If you want to enter or depart the United States with your child who is a U.S. citizen, you must obtain a U.S. passport for your child.
Q.11 Can my dual citizen child go to the U.S. using his/her foreign passport? Which passport should my dual-citizen child use to enter/exit the United States?
- By law, U.S. citizens, including dual nationals, must use a U.S. passport to enter and exit the United States. U.S. citizens are not eligible for a U.S. visa. U.S./Canada dual citizens are advised to carry both valid passports (U.S. and Canada) when traveling to/from the United States. The dual citizen will be required to present their U.S. passport at U.S. immigration and might be requested to present their Canadian passport when going through Canadian immigration.
- If your child is a citizen of the United States, they are not eligible for a U.S. visa. This is true even if you have not taken steps to document them as a U.S. citizen. If you want to enter or depart the United States with your child who is a U.S. citizen, you must obtain a U.S. passport for your child.
Q.12 How can I extend my visa?
The validity of a visa cannot be extended regardless of its type. You must apply for a new visa.
Q.13 Must I submit my visa application form electronically?
Yes, you must complete the DS-160 and bring a printed copy of the DS-160 confirmation page with you when you go for your interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Q.14 What is "administrative processing?"
Some refused visa applications may require further administrative processing. When administrative processing is required, the consular officer will inform the applicant at the end of the interview. The duration of the administrative processing will vary based on the individual circumstances of each case. Except in cases of emergency travel (i.e. serious illnesses, injuries, or deaths in your immediate family), before making inquiries about status of administrative processing, applicants should wait at least 180 days from the date of interview or submission of supplemental documents, whichever is later.
This web page on the Consular Affairs website has more information about administrative processing.
Q.15 How do I read and understand my visa?
As soon as you receive your visa, check to make sure all your personal information printed on the visa is correct. If any of the information on your visa does not match the information in your passport or is otherwise incorrect, please contact the issuing authority (i.e. the) immediately.
The expiration date of your visa is the last day you may use the visa to enter the United States. It does not indicate how long you may stay in the United States. Your stay is determined by the Department of Homeland Security at your port of entry. As long as you comply with the Department of Homeland Security decision on the conditions of your stay, you should have no problem.
Further information about interpreting your visa can be found at the Department of State's Consular Affairs website.
Q.16 My visa will expire while I am in the United States. Is there a problem with that?
No. You may stay in the United States for the period of time and conditions authorized by the Department of Homeland Security officer when you arrived in the United States, which will be stamped in your passport, even if your visa expires during your stay. You can find more information here.
Q.17 What will happen when I enter the United States?
Your airline should give you a blank Customs Declaration form 6059B. Only one Customs Declaration is required for a family traveling together.
A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States, but allows a foreign citizen coming from abroad to travel to a U.S. port of entry and request permission to enter the United States. The Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States, and determine how long a traveler may stay. At the port of entry, upon granting entry to the United States, the Customs and Border Protection officer will determine the length of stay permitted. Previously, travelers received a paper I-94 (record of admission) with this information. This process is now automated, with some exceptions. The traveler will be provided with a CBP admission stamp on their travel document that shows the date of admission, class of admission, and admitted-until date. Learn more on the CBP Website. If a traveler needs a copy of their I-94 for verification of alien registration, immigration status or employment authorization, it can be obtained from https://cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/i-94. You can review information about admission on the CBP Website.
Q.18 I did not turn in my I-94 when I left the United States. What should I do?
Previously, foreign travelers granted entry by CBP officials received a paper Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record). This process is now automated, with some exceptions. If you received a paper Form I-94 or I-94W and failed to turn in your paper Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record to the commercial airline or CBP when you departed the U.S., see the CBP Website for instructions. Do not send your paper Form I-94 or I-94W to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General.
If you received an admissions stamp in your passport instead of a paper Form I-94 when granted entry, the I-94 record was created electronically, and a paper copy was not provided to you. CBP will record your departure from the U.S. electronically. Learn more on the CBP Website.
Q.19 I have questions on submitting my DS-160 and printing the confirmation page. Where can I go for more information?
Our call center is unable to provide assistance on the application form. Any inquiries on completing the DS-160 can be addressed on the following website.
Q.20 I changed my name. Is my U.S. visa with my old name still valid?
If your name has legally changed through marriage, divorce, or a court ordered name change, you will need to obtain a new passport. Once you have a new passport, the Department of State recommends that you apply for a new U.S. visa to make it easier for you to travel to and from the United States.
Q.21 What information do I need to provide about social media while filling out the DS-160 form?
On May 31 2019, the Department of State updated its immigrant and non-immigrant visa application forms to request additional information, including social media identifiers, from most U.S. visa applicants worldwide. For more details please click here.
FAQ - Visa Refusals
- What is Section 214(b)?
- How can an applicant prove "strong ties?"
- Is a denial under Section 214(b) permanent?
- Who can influence the consular officer to reverse a decision?
The United States is an open society. Unlike many other countries, the United States does not impose internal controls on most visitors, such as registration with local authorities. Our immigration law requires consular officers to view every visa applicant as an intending immigrant until the applicant proves otherwise. In order to enjoy the privilege of unencumbered travel in the United States, you have a responsibility to prove you are going to return abroad before a visitor or student visa is issued.
Q.1 What Is Section 214(b)?
Section 214(b) is part of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). It states:
(b) Every alien (other than a nonimmigrant described in subparagraph (L) or (V) of section 101(a)(15), and other than a nonimmigrant described in any provision of section 101(a)(15)(H)(i) except subclause (b1) of such section) shall be presumed to be an immigrant until he establishes to the satisfaction of the consular officer, at the time of application for a visa, and the immigration officers, at the time of application for admission, that he is entitled to a nonimmigrant status under section 101(a)(15). An alien who is an officer or employee of any foreign government or of any international organization entitled to enjoy privileges, exemptions, and immunities under the International Organizations Immunities Act, or an alien who is the attendant, servant, employee, or member of the immediate family of any such alien shall not be entitled to apply for or receive an immigrant visa, or to enter the United States as an immigrant unless he executes a written waiver in the same form and substance as is prescribed by section 247(b).
Our consular officers have a difficult job. They must decide in a very short time if someone is qualified to receive a temporary visa. Most cases are decided after a brief interview and review of whatever evidence of ties an applicant presents. To qualify for a visitor or student visa, an applicant must meet the requirements of sections 101(a)(15)(B) or (F) of the INA respectively. Failure to do so will result in a refusal of a visa under INA 214(b). The most frequent basis for such a refusal concerns the requirement that the prospective visitor or student possess a residence abroad he or she has no intention of abandoning. Applicants prove the existence of such residence by demonstrating that they have ties abroad that would compel them to leave the United States at the end of the temporary stay. The law places this burden of proof on the applicant.
Q.2 How can an applicant prove "strong ties?"
Ties are the various aspects of your life that bind you to your home country. Strong ties vary from country to country, city to city, and person to person, but examples include:
- Your job;
- Your home; and/or
- Your relationships with family and friends.
While conducting visa interviews, consular officers look at each application individually and consider the applicant's circumstances, travel plans, financial resources, and ties outside of the United States that will ensure the applicant’s departure after a temporary visit.
Q.3 Is a denial under Section 214(b) permanent?
No. A refusal, or ineligibility, under section 214(b) is for that specific application, so once a case is closed, the consular section cannot take any further action. There is no appeal process. If you feel there is additional information that should be considered related to the visa decision, or there are significant changes in your circumstances since your last application, you may reapply for a visa. To reapply, you must complete a new application form, pay the application fee, and schedule an appointment for a new interview. Review the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to reapply to learn about any reapplication procedures.
Q.4 Who can influence the consular officer to reverse a decision?
Immigration law delegates the responsibility for issuance or refusal of visas to consular officers overseas. They have the final say on all visa cases. By regulation, the U.S. Department of State has authority to review consular decisions, but this authority is limited to the interpretation of law, as contrasted to determinations of facts. The question at issue in such denials, whether an applicant possesses the required residence abroad, is a factual one. Therefore, it falls exclusively within the authority of consular officers at our Foreign Service posts to resolve. An applicant can influence the post to change a prior visa denial only through the presentation of new convincing evidence of strong ties.
For information about visa ineligibilities other than 214(b), please visit the Department of State's Consular Affairs website.
FAQ - Business/Tourist Visa
- How long can I stay in the United States on a tourist or business visa?
- My visitor visa (B-1/B-2) expires after my intended date of arrival in the United States. Do I need to get a new visa before departure?
- My U.S. visa will expire in the next 6 months. Do I need to apply for a new visa after my current visa expires or can I apply in advance?
- I currently hold a valid B-1/B-2 visa, which is in my maiden name, in my old passport. I wish to transfer this visa to my new passport, which is in my married name. What is the procedure?
- My current U.S. visa was issued to me when I was working in my previous job. Now I have changed to a new job at a new company and my new employer wants me to attend a conference in the United States, scheduled for next month. Can I use the same visa or do I have to apply for a new visa?
- My child is studying in the United States. Can I go live with him?
Q.1 How long can I stay in the United States on a tourist or business visa?
A U.S. nonimmigrant visa grants you permission to travel to a Port of Entry (airport/seaport) in the United States. When you arrive at your destination Port of Entry, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer who processes your entry will determine the length of time that you may remain in the country. You may travel to the Port of Entry during the validity of your nonimmigrant visa up to and including the last day the visa is valid. The visa duration does not determine the length of time that you may legally remain in the United States; only the Customs and Border Protection officer can decide this upon your arrival in the United States.
Q.2 My visitor visa (B-1/B-2) expires after my intended date of arrival in the United States. Do I need to get a new visa before departure?
You can arrive in the United States right up to the last date of validity indicated on the visa. The Customs and Border Protection officer on arrival determines the duration of your stay in the United States. Your visa can expire while you are still in the United States – just be sure that you do not overstay the period of time the officer grants.
Q.3 My U.S. visa will expire in the next 6 months. Do I need to apply for a new visa after my current visa expires or can I apply in advance?
You do not have to wait until your current visa expires. You can apply for a new visa even if your current visa is valid.
Q.4 I currently hold a valid B-1/B-2 visa, which is in my maiden name, in my old passport. I wish to transfer this visa to my new passport, which is in my married name. What is the procedure?
U.S. visas cannot be transferred from one passport to another. If your name has legally changed through marriage, divorce, or a court ordered name change, you will need to obtain a new passport. Once you have a new passport, the Department of State recommends that you apply for a new U.S. visa to make it easier for you to travel to and from the United States.
Q.5 My current U.S. visa was issued to me when I was working in my previous job. Now I have changed to a new job at a new company and my new employer wants me to attend a conference in the United States, scheduled for next month. Can I use the same visa or do I have to apply for a new visa?
You can travel to the United States on the same visa as long as your visa is valid for business or pleasure.
Q.6 My child is studying in the United States. Can I go live with him?
While you can use your own B-1/B-2 visa (or travel under the Visa Waiver Program, if eligible) to visit your child, you may not live with your child unless you have your own immigrant, work, or student visa.
FAQ - Work Visa
- What is a petition?
- Can I get a visa to do casual work?
- Is there an age limit for applying for a temporary work visa?
- Can my U.S.-based relative sponsor me for a work visa?
- When can I enter the United States?
- Who pays the Fraud Prevention and Detection fee and when do they pay it?
Q.1 What is a petition?
Before applying for a temporary worker visa at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate you must have an approved Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker, from USCIS. This petition must be submitted by your prospective employer no earlier than 6 months prior to your proposed employment start date. Your employer should file the petition as soon as possible within the 6-month period to allow adequate time for processing. Once approved, your employer will be sent Form I-797, Notice of Action. For more information, visit the USCIS Temporary Workers webpage.
Note: To verify your petition's approval the U.S. Embassy or Consulate needs your I-129 petition receipt number, along with your approved Form I-797. Please bring both of these to your interview.
Q.2 Can I get a visa to do casual work?
No. There is no visa that covers casual work. All applicants who plan to work in the United States must have an approved petition prior to their visa appointment.
Q.3 Is there an age limit for applying for a temporary work visa?
No.
Q.4 Can my U.S.-based relative sponsor me for a work visa?
No. Only your employer can sponsor you.
Q.5 When can I enter the United States?
You may not enter the United States until 10 days prior to your initial employment start date, as noted on your Form I-797 or on your offer of employment letter.
Q.6 Who pays the Fraud Prevention and Detection fee and when do they pay it?
An applicant for an L-1 visa traveling on a blanket petition must pay the Fraud Prevention and Detection fee. On individual L, H-1B and H-2B petitions, the U.S. petitioner pays the Fraud Prevention and Detection fee to USCIS when the petition is filed.
FAQ - Student Visa
- What is an I-20 and how do I get it?
- How early should I apply for my student visa?
- I received my visa, when should I travel?
- Can a person on a visitor visa change his or her status to student while in the United States if he or she gains admission to a school and gets a Form I-20?
- What if I receive an I-20 to a different school?
- I was working as an H-1B and have now been admitted to a university as an F-1. Do I need to return to my country to apply for a student visa?
- Can an F-1 student work in the United States?
- What is the SEVIS system and how does it affect me?
Q.1 What is an I-20 and how do I get it?
The Form I-20 is an official U.S. Government form, issued by a certified school, which a prospective nonimmigrant student must have in order to get an F-1 or M-1 visa. Form I-20 acts as proof-of-acceptance and contains the information necessary to pay the SEVIS I-901 fee, apply for a visa or change visa status, and be admitted into the United States. The Form I-20 has the student's SEVIS identification number, which starts with the letter N and is followed by nine digits, on the upper right side directly above the barcode.
Q.2 How early should I apply for my student visa?
You are encouraged to apply for your nonimmigrant student (F, M and J) visa as soon as you have your form I-20. To ensure you get an early and timely date you may apply within 365 days from the start date of your program shown on your form I-20.
Q.3 I received my visa, when should I travel?
For your initial entry, you may only enter the United States within 30 days of the beginning of the course of study stated on your I-20, regardless of when your visa was issued.
Q.4 Can a person on a visitor visa change his or her status to student while in the United States if he or she gains admission to a school and gets a Form I-20?
Yes. In general, you may apply to change your nonimmigrant visa status if you were lawfully admitted to the United States with a nonimmigrant visa, if your nonimmigrant status remains valid, if you have not violated the conditions of your status, and you have not committed any actions that would make you ineligible. For more details, please visit the USCIS website.
Q.5 What if I receive an I-20 to a different school?
If you received an I-20 after scheduling your appointment, then you can inform the U.S. consular officer of the new I-20 at the time of the interview.
Q.6 I was working as an H-1B and have now been admitted to a university as an F-1. Do I need to return to my country to apply for a student visa?
No. Once you are in the United States, you do not need to apply for a new visa because the visa is only for entry into the United States. Check with USCIS to determine if you need to adjust status. If you leave the country, however, you'll need to apply for the student visa in order to re-enter the United States.
Q.7 Can an F-1 student work in the United States?
Full-time students on F visas may seek on-campus employment not to exceed 20 hours per week. After the first year in student status, an applicant may apply for employment off campus with authorization from USCIS. Please contact your student advisor for further information.
Q.8 What is the SEVIS system and how does it affect me?
The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) program requires schools and exchange programs to verify the enrollment status of all new and continuing foreign students and exchange visitors. Student visa applicants are required to pay a SEVIS fee before a visa can be issued. The SEVIS website has more details.
FAQ - Exchange Visitor Visa
- I received my visa, when should I travel?
- What is the SEVIS system and how does it affect me?
- What is the "two-year rule?"
- Can the two-year rule be waived?
Q.1 I received my visa, when should I travel?
Exchange visitors may only enter the United States within 30 days of the beginning of the program, as stated on your Form DS-2019, regardless of when your visa was issued.
Q.2 What is the SEVIS system and how does it affect me?
The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) program requires schools and exchange programs to verify the enrollment status of all new and continuing foreign students and exchange visitors. Exchange visitor visa applicants are required to pay a SEVIS fee before a visa can be issued. The SEVIS website has more details.
Q.3 What is the "two-year rule?"
The "two-year rule" is the common term used for a section of U.S. immigration law which requires many exchange visitors to return to their home countries and be physically present there for at least two years after the conclusion of their exchange visit before they can return to the U.S. under certain types of visas, specifically H-1, L-1, K-1 and immigrant visas. It is important to note that only a preliminary finding of whether the two-year rule applies to you is made on your DS-2019 when your J-1 visa is issued. The final decision will be made only if you later choose to apply for an H-1, L-1, K-1, or immigrant visa.
J-1 visa holders subject to the two-year rule are not permitted to remain in the United States and apply for an adjustment/change of status to a prohibited nonimmigrant status (for example, from a J-1 visa to an H-1 visa) or to apply for legal permanent resident status (Green Card) without first returning home for two years or obtaining an approved waiver. Whether you are subject to the two-year rule is determined by a number of factors, including your source of funding and your country's "Skills List." It is not determined by the amount of time you spend in the United States.
Q.4 Can the two-year rule be waived?
Possibly. Only the Department of State's Visa Office can grant waivers of the two-year rule. The Visa Office is also the final authority on whether you are subject to the rule, regardless of what is annotated in your passport. If you are subject to the two-year rule, you may be able to obtain a waiver. Even if you are subject to the two-year rule, you may still qualify for a tourist visa or any other nonimmigrant visa except those noted above.
FAQ - Transit/Ship Crew Visa
Q.1 I plan to stop in the United States for a day and take a flight to another country on the next day. Do I need to apply for C-1 visa or a B-1/B-2 visa?
If you seek layover privileges for purposes other than transiting through the United States, such as to visit friends or for sightseeing, then you must qualify for and obtain the type of visa required for that purpose, such as a B-2 visa.
FAQ - Religious Worker Visa
Q.1 I am applying for a religious worker visa, but do not have an approved petition. I have been to the United States previously with an R-1 visa and was not required to have the petition. Can I apply for an R-1 visa without the petition since I had an R-1 visa in the past?
The requirement for an approved petition went into effect November 28, 2008. All applicants applying for an R-1 nonimmigrant visa are required to have an approved petition from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). For more information, please visit the USCIS website.
FAQ - Visas for Children
- Do children need a visa?
- Do children pay the same application fee as adults?
- Do children need to schedule an appointment and come in person for an interview?
- What documents should be submitted for an applicant under the age of 14 years?
Q.1 Do children need a visa?
All travelers, including children, need a visa to travel to the United States or must qualify to travel without a visa through a special program, such as the Visa Waiver Program.
Q.2 Do children pay the same application fee as adults?
Yes.
Q.3 Do children need to schedule an appointment and come in person for an interview?
In general, all nonimmigrant visa applicants require a personal appearance when applying for a U.S. visa regardless of any age, except for the children eligible for Interview Waiver. However, a consular officer is authorized to waive the interview of any applicant (first-time or visa renewal) who is applying in the consular district of their normal residence. The Adjudicating Consular Officer determines the personal appearance requirement and make discretion in accordance with the provision of the law.
Q.4 What documents should be submitted for an applicant under the age of 14 years?
All applicants must include the following documents when submitting their applications:
- Applicant's current and all old passports;
- A completed DS-160 confirmation page;
- A visa fee receipt for the current visa application;
- Children under 14 years of age must submit a photocopy of both parent’s passport biographic information page, both parent’s valid U.S. visa, and a copy of the child’s birth certificate. If the parents do not hold U.S. visas, the children are not eligible for the interview waiver;
- One copy of the interview-waiver confirmation letter;
- Accompanying guardians or parents may submit their children's documents with one hard copy photograph, as per the photo requirements.
Note: Parents having the appointment scheduled together with the child under 14 years of age should submit the required above documents during the time of their Interview at the Embassy. Visa issuance for those not appearing in person is not guaranteed. The Embassy may in some cases, after reviewing an application, require the child to appear in person.
FAQ – Interview Waiver & Visa Renewal
- Can I apply for the Interview Waiver if my last visa was issued from an overseas post (not from Nepal)?
- Am I eligible to apply for the Interview Waiver?
- My visa expired two years ago. Can I still apply for interview-waiver?
- I applied for a visa in 2007 but received it in 2008. Can I apply for interview-waiver?
- When will I get my visa after applying for interview-waiver?
- What should I do if I am asked to come in for an in-person interview?
- Does interview-waiver eligibility guarantee that I’ll be issued a visa?
- What are the pre-requisites to submit an application for interview-waiver?
- I am applying with my child for B Visa, and his/her age was below 14 when the last visa was issued. Now my child is over 14. Can he/she apply for interview-waiver along with the rest of the family?
- Can I apply for an interview waiver if I am outside Nepal?
Q.1 Can I apply for the Interview Waiver if my last visa was issued from an overseas post (not from Nepal)?
Yes, you may apply at the U.S. Embassy Kathmandu even though your last visa was issued from an overseas post as long as you are applying in the consular district of your normal residence. For example, if you are a citizen or resident of Nepal (for at least the previous 6 months) and currently applying and present in Nepal.
Q.2 Am I eligible to apply for the Interview Waiver?
To determine whether you may be eligible to renew your nonimmigrant visa without appearing for an interview, we recommend that you visit the Interview waiver and Visa Renewal page.
Q.3 My visa expired two years ago. Can I still apply for interview-waiver?
You can check your qualifications for the Interview Waiver on the Interview waiver and Visa Renewal page.
Q.4 I applied for a visa in 2007 but received it in 2008. Can I apply for interview-waiver?
Applicants who were interviewed for a nonimmigrant visa on or after January 01, 2008 are eligible. Additionally, the applicants must meet the criteria listed on the Interview waiver and Visa Renewal page.
Q.5 When will I get my visa after applying for interview-waiver?
When your passport is available at the selected location you will receive an email that your passport is “Ready for Pick Up.” However, some qualified applicants require additional administrative processing. It is impossible for us to predict how much time will be required for additional processing. Once the processing is complete and the visa is ready, your passport will be sent to your pre-selected location.
Q.6 What should I do if I am asked to come in for an in-person interview?
You will receive an email from support@ustraveldocs.com notifying you to schedule an interview online, and your MRV fee receipt will be unlocked. If you are asked to come in for an in-person interview, the Visa Status Check may show that your current status is “Refused.” This means that your application is refused pending an interview. For information on consular services currently being provided at the U.S. Embassy Kathmandu, please refer to the following link: https://np.usembassy.gov/visas/.
Q.7 Does interview-waiver eligibility guarantee that I’ll be issued a visa?
No. Eligibility for the interview waiver does not guarantee a visa issuance, nor does it guarantee that the interview will be waived. Even if your interview is waived, you may still be required to appear for fingerprinting. We will contact you via the email address listed on your DS-160 online application if we require additional information.
Q.8 What are the pre-requisites to submit an application for interview-waiver?
To check the details about documents required, we recommend that you visit the Interview waiver and Visa Renewal page.
Q.9 I am applying with my child for B Visa, and his/her age was below 14 when the last visa was issued. Now my child is over 14. Can he/she apply for interview-waiver along with the rest of the family?
Yes, your child can apply for interview waiver. However, if the interview is waived, your child will still need to appear at the U.S. Embassy for a fingerprinting appointment. If this circumstance applies to your child’s application, the consular section will contact you regarding scheduling.
Q.10 Can I apply for an interview waiver if I am outside Nepal?
No, applicants must be present in Nepal to be eligible for an interview waiver.
FAQ - F, M, and Academic J Visa Processing and Expansion of Interview Waiver During COVID-19
- Which student applicants qualify for an interview waiver?
- Who decides who is qualified?
- Where can I apply?
- Do I still need to make an appointment?
- What is the Visa Waiver Program?
- What is an “academic” J visa?
- Does this mean I will be guaranteed a visa?
- Will my spouse and minor children be eligible for interview waiver for their derivative F, M and J visas?
- Where can I find more information?
- Do I need to get my fingerprints taken?
- How long will this policy last?
- What if my prior U.S. visa is expired?
- What if I had a visa refused, but my subsequent visa application was approved?
- I’ve previously been issued a U.S. visa in a different category than F, M or academic J. Can I still qualify for the interview waiver program?
- What is a National Interest Exception (NIE)?
- How do I apply for a National Interest Exception?
Q.1 Which student applicants qualify for an interview waiver?
Applicants seeking F, M or academic J visas may be eligible for an interview waiver. The applicant must have previously been issued a U.S. visa in a visa category other than a B Visa. In addition, an applicant’s most recent visa application cannot have been refused for any reason and there cannot be any indication of a visa ineligibility.
First-time F, M and academic J visa applicants who are citizens or nationals of Visa Waiver Program countries and who have no indication of potential visa ineligibility may also be eligible. An applicant who has been denied for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is not eligible for interview waiver.
Q.2 Who decides who is qualified?
The decision to allow interview waiver will be made by embassies and consulates on a case-by-case basis.
Q.3 Where can I apply?
An applicant must be a usual resident or national of the country where he/she is applying.
Q.4 Do I still need to make an appointment?
Please check your local embassy or consulate’s website for more information. In some locations, applicants may need to make an interview waiver appointment to submit their passport, fingerprints, and accompanying documents.
Q.5 What is the Visa Waiver Program?
The Visa Waiver Program enables most citizens or nationals of participating countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa. Travelers must have a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval prior to travel and meet all requirements explained below. Visit travel.state.gov for more information.
Q.6 What is an “academic” J visa?
Academic J visa applicants include students, professors, research scholars, short-term scholars, or specialists who are participating in an approved exchange program. Please see for more information on approved exchanged programs.
Q.7 Does this mean I will be guaranteed a visa?
No. The new policy waives the in-person interview requirement for some F, M and academic J visa applicants. A consular officer will review your visa application and may determine an interview is necessary. All visa applications are adjudicated on a case-by-case basis. The consular officer may deny a visa application if an applicant is found ineligible under the Immigration and Nationality Act or other provisions of U.S. law.
Q.8 Will my spouse and minor children be eligible for interview waiver for their derivative F, M and J visas?
Yes, derivative visa applicants under age 14 may also qualify for interview waiver if the principal applicant qualifies. Your spouse and children age 14 and above are only eligible for interview waiver if the criteria listed on the Interview waiver and Visa Renewal page are met.
Q.9 Where can I find more information?
Travel.state.gov and the website for your local U.S. embassy or consulate will have more information about whether you qualify and how to book an appointment.
Q.10 Do I need to get my fingerprints taken?
If you have previously been issued a U.S. visa, you likely will not be required to provide your biometrics again. In some circumstances, such as if the original visa was issued before the applicant was 14 years old, biometrics may be required. For applicants from VWP countries, fingerprints will not be required prior to the F, M or academic J visa application.
Q.11 How long will this policy last?
No expiration date has been given for this policy, at this time.
Q.12 What if my prior U.S. visa is expired?
The new policy applies to those who previously were issued a U.S. visa regardless of whether the prior visa is expired. Those whose most recent visa application was refused do not qualify.
Q.13 What if I had a visa refused, but my subsequent visa application was approved?
If a subsequent visa was approved, and the applicant has no apparent visa ineligibilities, you may still qualify for the interview waiver program.
Q.14 I’ve previously been issued a U.S. visa in a different category than F, M or academic J. Can I still qualify for the interview waiver program?
F, M and academic J applicants who have been issued any type of U.S. visa other than a B Visa in the past may qualify for the interview waiver program, as long as they are not otherwise ineligible.
Q.15 What is a National Interest Exception (NIE)?
A NIE allows a person who has been present in one of the 33 countries subject to COVID-19 travel restrictions to travel to the United States.
Q.16 How do I apply for a National Interest Exception?
F and M applicants will automatically be considered for a NIE upon submission of their visa application. Academic J applicants should contact their local embassy or consulate for information on how to apply for a NIE.
FAQ - Track My Passport
- How will I get my passport back after the interview?
- What do I need to show to pick-up the passport at the Embassy/Consulate?
- What types of ID are acceptable as proof-of-identity?
- Can someone besides me pick-up my passport?
Q.1 How will I get my passport back after the interview?
If your visa application is approved, your passport and visa can be collected from the pickup location you selected when you scheduled for interview appointment. When your passport is available at selected location you will receive an email that your passport is “Ready for Pick Up”. Please check your spam and/or junk email folder on a regular basis, for important emails that may have been mistakenly filtered.
Q.2 What do I need to show to pick-up the passport at the Embassy/Consulate?
In order to ensure that your passport and visa are not given to an unauthorized person, you must present a government-issued photo ID for identification when you collect your passport.
Q.3 What types of ID are acceptable as proof-of-identity?
You must present an original government-issued photo ID.
Q.4 Can someone besides me pick-up my passport?
Yes. However, your representative - even in case of family members - must present the following in order to collect your passport:
If a representative is collecting your passport from the document collection office on your behalf - even in case of family members - the representative must present:
- Their own original government-issued photo ID for identification
- A photocopy of your government-issued photo ID
- A letter of authority, signed by you, authorizing your representative to collect your passport. The letter of authority must contain the following information:
- Your representative's full name as shown on their government-issued photo ID
- Your name
- Please click here for format of the Authorization Letter
If the applicant is under the age of 18, the following documents are required:
- An original, signed letter of authority from either of the applicant's parents
- A clear photocopy of the government-issued photo ID belonging to the parent who signed the applicant's letter of authority
- The representative's original government-issued photo ID
Note: In case of a group/family, a single letter of authority with the required information for each of the applicants will be accepted.
FAQ - Premium Delivery Services
- Is there any service for Passport Delivery/ Submission in Nepal other than Kathmandu?
- How do I pay for this service?
- I have paid the premium delivery charges, how can I have the receipt of the payment?
- Can I opt for service after scheduling appointment or after attending visa interview?
- I am applying together with my family, do I have to pay for all members?
- What do I need to show to the document delivery counter when they deliver my passport?
- What types of ID are acceptable as proof-of-identity?
- If I/ family member doesn’t have cash upon delivery/ submission can they pay the fee after delivery/ submission?
- What happens to passports for applicants who miss collecting on a Friday but need to travel on a Saturday?
Q.1 Is there any service for Passport Delivery/ Submission in Nepal other than Kathmandu?
You can get your passport delivered/ submitted to one of the 5 Premium delivery locations at Biratnagar, Birgunj, Pokhara, Bhairahawa and Narayangarh in Nepal Investment Mega Bank at a nominal fee. If you wish to avail this service, please choose the option “Premium Delivery” on the document delivery page while scheduling your appointment. There is no fee to be paid at the time of choosing this service. The fee will be collected at the time of delivery/submission of your passport. For more details refer link.
Q.2 How do I pay for this service?
This is a Cash over the counter delivery service, so you will have to pay a nominal fee before the time of delivery/ submission of your passport. This fee is inclusive of all applicable taxes.
Q.3 I have paid the premium delivery charges, how can I have the receipt of the payment?
Once you have paid the fee over the NIMB cash counter, the teller will provide you the payment receipt for this service.
Q.4 Can I opt for service after scheduling appointment or after attending visa interview?
You may opt for this service until 1 PM a day prior to your interview appointment. You will need to login on your profile and on the Document Delivery page you may select the city from where you want to pick up or deliver the passport/documents.
Q.5 I am applying together with my family, do I have to pay for all members?
Yes, for security reasons each passport will be packed and delivered separately and not clubbed together hence, you will have to pay separately for each member.
Q.6 What do I need to show to the document delivery counter when they deliver my passport?
For security reasons, you must present an original government-issued photo ID for verification when you collect your passport. For more details refer link.
Q.7 What types of ID are acceptable as proof-of-identity?
For Security reasons, you must present an original government-issued photo ID.
Q.8 If I/ family member doesn’t have cash upon delivery/ submission can they pay the fee after delivery?
No, you will have to present the receipt of payment before collecting/ submission of documents at the document delivery counter.
Q.9 What happens to passports for applicants who miss paying on a Friday but need to travel on a Saturday?
All applicants, regardless if they selected regular delivery or premium delivery, are advised to plan well in advance to avoid the risk of not getting the passport by the time of travel. You can pay at the time of delivery from Premium delivery centers.
FAQ - Visa Document Packets and the Modernized Immigrant Visa (MIV)
- I recently had my immigrant visa interview at the embassy/consulate and received my passport and visa. However, I did not receive a packet of documents in a sealed envelope to take with me on the plane to the United States. My lawyer/petitioner/friends are saying that I can’t fly without one. What should I do?
- I don’t remember if I submitted my civil and financial documents electronically or by mail. Is there another way to determine if my visa was issued under the paperless process?
- I know other people that have received immigrant visas and they had to hand-carry and sealed envelope to the U.S. Port of Entry. Why is the process different for them?
Q.1 I recently had my immigrant visa interview at the embassy/consulate and received my passport and visa. However, I did not receive a packet of documents in a sealed envelope to take with me on the plane to the United States. My lawyer/petitioner/friends are saying that I can’t fly without one. What should I do?
The Department of State has begun electronic processing of some immigrant visa applications. If either the National Visa Center or the embassy/consulate which conducted your visa interview required that you electronically submit your civil and financial supporting documents via the CEAC portal, then your visa was issued under the new electronic process. Unless specifically informed by the embassy/consulate which interviewed you and issued the visa, you are NOT required to hand-carry a packet of documents in a sealed envelope to present at the U.S. Port of Entry. Be assured that your documents were transmitted electronically from the Department of State to the Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection (DHS/CBP), the agency that inspects all immigrants entering into the country. When you arrive at Immigration Control at the U.S. Port of Entry, the CBP officers will have access to all of the information required to process your entry into the United States. This new electronic process will streamline the processing of your immigrant visa application and entry to the United States.
Q.2 I don’t remember if I submitted my civil and financial documents electronically or by mail. Is there another way to determine if my visa was issued under the paperless process?
Yes. Look at your visa. If you do not need a packet of papers, your visa will have an annotation by the bottom right corner of your picture that says “IV DOCS in CCD”.
Q.3 I know other people that have received immigrant visas and they had to hand-carry and sealed envelope to the U.S. Port of Entry. Why is the process different for them?
The electronic processing of some immigrant visa applications began in 2018. To convert all the different types of immigrant visas to electronic processing will take several years. Until the process is complete, some immigrant visa holders will still need to hand-carry a packet of documents in a sealed envelope to the U.S. Port of Entry. These individuals will not have the annotation “IV DOCS in CCD” printed in the lower right hand corner of their visa.
FAQ - Application Profile
- How do I reset my password?
- What should I do if I move to another country after I have registered my profile on www.ustraveldocs.com and did not apply yet for my visa, or if I want to submit a new visa application in another country than my previous application?
Q.1 How do I reset my password?
Click the Forgot Your Password? link at the bottom of this web page. Enter your email address in the Username field and click Submit. The email address you type must match the email address you used when you began your visa application. A new password will be sent to your email address.
Note: The email with your new password will come from no-reply@ustraveldocs.com. Some email applications have rules which filter unknown senders into a spam or junk mail folder. If you have not received your email notification, please look for the message in your junk and spam email folders.
Q.2 What should I do if I move to another country after I have registered my profile on www.ustraveldocs.com and did not apply yet for my visa, or if I want to submit a new visa application in another country than my previous application?
You do not need to create another profile if it is also serviced by CGI. You can simply contact us through the Contact Us section on this website and share your passport number, UID or email address so we can retrieve and update your profile with the new country where you plan to apply for your US Visa.
If you are applying in a country that is not covered by CGI, you will be invited to create a new profile. As a reminder, MRV fee receipts paid in one country are non-transferable to the other country.
FAQ - Relief for Individuals Refused Under P.P.9645
- Who Benefits Under the Court’s Order?
- How to Benefit from the Court’s Order?
- How long should I wait for the eligibility decision after submitting required information?
- What do you need to prepare before submitting your official request?
Q.1 Who Benefits Under the Court’s Order?
If you are a national of Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Syria, Venezuela, or Yemen and were denied a visa under P.P. 9645 between December 8, 2017, and January 20, 2021, and did not receive a waiver under P.P. 9645, you may be eligible for relief under the Court’s Order.
You may be eligible for relief under this Order so long as:
- You have not submitted a new DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Application form or a new DS-260 Immigrant Visa Electronic Application form since your prior application that was refused under P.P. 9645; or
- You have submitted a new DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Application form or a new DS-260 Immigrant Visa Electronic Application form but have not yet appeared for a visa interview (consular appointment)
You are NOT eligible for relief under this Order if:
- Your application denied under P.P. 9645 was an application for diversity visa;
- You received a waiver while P.P. 9645 was in effect;
- You have received a visa since January 20, 2021; or
- You have made a new application, attended a visa interview (consular appointment) and have received a decision, including a refusal under INA 22l(g), since January 20, 2021;
- Individuals who benefit under this order are referred to as “class members.” Only class members are eligible to benefit from this order.
Q.2 How to Benefit from the Court’s Order?
If you may be eligible based on the terms listed above and you intend to apply in Nepal, please create an applicant profile and then fill out this form with the details corresponding to your previously refused application. Your request will be reviewed, and you will receive an email indicating whether you are eligible and instructions for using your one-time credit. Do NOT submit multiple requests or reach out for your credit through other channels – this may delay your application.
If you intend to apply elsewhere, please visit https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/News/visas-news/Emami-litigation-notice-to-class-members.html for instructions on claiming your one-time credit
Q.3 How long should I wait for the eligibility decision after submitting required information?
Please wait for 7 business days for an email notification of the assessment of your class members status.
Q.4 What do you need to prepare before submitting your official request?
Please follow below steps to submit your request:
- Create a profile on www.ustraveldocs.com and choose the country you would like to apply from;
- Follow the steps of the application to select your visa type, post, and document delivery options. Please do not proceed past Payment page;
- If you are NOT applying in India, Australia, New Zealand, Korea, Japan, or Fiji: obtain UID of your profile from the top right corner;
- If you are applying in India, Australia, New Zealand, Korea, Japan, Fiji, select payment Type “Applicants affected by PP9645” and submit. Obtain your payment reference number;
- Fill out CGI’s form here;