International Visitors to the U.S.
News!
Visa Waivers - As of 12 January 2009
Citizens of the visa waiver countries must apply for "Travel Authorization."
Passport Alert!
Applicants for U.S. Visa Do NOT Need to Leave Passport with Consular Officer
The Deputy Assistant Secretary for Visa Services of the U.S. Department of State says that Consular Officers do not need to retain applicants’ passports. It may be useful to print this letter and bring it to your visa interview.
Deputy Assistant Secretary Letter
Applying for Your Visa
Visa Application Information
The United States government is the official source of information about U.S. visa policy and procedures. The U.S. government visa website is managed by the U.S. Department of State.
United States Visa Information Website
Visa Wait Times
Estimate how long it may take to process a nonimmigrant visa application. The Bureau of Consular Affairs of the U.S. Department of State provides Visa Wait Times at every U.S. Consular offices world-wide.
Visa Wait Times
Administrative Processing
Some visa applications require additional "administrative processing," which adds several weeks to the visa application process. Applications from individuals involved in scientific fields are often subjected to administrative processing. As a result, you should apply for your visa as early as possible, preferably 3-4 months in advance.
Administrative Processing Information
Visa Problems
Visa Delays
Learn what causes visa application delays and how to report excessive delays to The National Academies International Visitors Office (IVO).
Visa Delays
Making a Temporary Visit Outside of the U.S.
Visitors who plan to make a temporary visit to their home country and reapply for a U.S. visa at that time can make some of their return preparations before leaving the U.S.
Tips for Temporary Visits
Entering the U.S.
Visa Waiver Program
Under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), citizens of certain countries may travel to the United States for tourism or business purposes--for stays of 90 days or less--without obtaining a visa. Please note that there are certain passport requirements when using the VWP.
Visa Waiver Program
Important! As of 12 January 2009, citizens from any of the visa waiver countries must apply for "Travel Authorization" at least 72 hours before their departure to the United States.
Press Release from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Electronic System for Travel Authorization Website
Records the entry and exit of travelers to the United States by collecting biographic information and biometrics, i.e., digital fingerprints and photographs. The Department of Homeland Security explains the purpose of US-VISIT and what to expect when you arrive in the U.S.
US-VISIT
Information about ports of entry, admission to the U.S., and what items to declare at customs.
CBP Website
Department of Homeland Security's Travel Redress Inquiry Program (DHS TRIP)
DHS TRIP is a central point of contact for international travelers "who experience repeated referrals for security screenings or who believe that they have been denied boarding or entry into the United States because of inaccurate or incorrect information."
DHS TRIP Website
