US Visa FAQ

8/21/2019 US Visa FAQ

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Q.1 How soon should I apply for my appointment?Apply early! The wait times for appointments by post are available at the Department of StateTravel site.Although the majority of applications are processed and ready to pick up within a fewbusiness days, some applications will require administrative processing. We cannot predict inadvance which applications will require administrative processing, nor do we know how long

it will take. Please apply at least 6-8 weeks before you plan to travel, and do not book planetickets or hotels until you have a visa.back to top

Q.2 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 leastsix months beyond your intended period of stay in the United States (unless country-specificagreements provide exemptions).back to top

Q.3 My passport is damaged or expiring soon, but I want to apply for a U.S.

visa. What should I do?Please obtain a new passport before your interview if:

• Your passport is going to expire in less than 6 months after the time you enter theUnited States.

• The film on the biographic data pages of your passport (i.e., page with your photo andback page with your parents' information) is peeling, or

• Your passport is otherwise torn, damaged, mutilated or has been washed or laundered.back to top

Q.4 Do I qualify for the Visa Waiver Program(VWP)?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 visitof less than 90 days, meet other program requirements, and have obtained an authorizationthrough 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 Programunless they are also citizens of VWP-eligible countries. We recommend you visit the VisaWaiver Program website before any travel to the U.S. to determine if you are eligible for theVWP.back to top

Q.5 What is the fee for ESTA(Electronic System for Travel Authorization)

and who has to pay it?ESTA registration is required for all travelers to the United States under the Visa WaiverProgram. There is a US$14 fee for ESTA registration. The fee can be paid online using adebit card or any of the following credit cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, orDiscover. Third parties (travel agents, family members, etc.) can pay your ESTA fee for you


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if you do not have the correct type of credit card. If the ESTA registration is denied, the fee isonly US$4.back to top

Q.6 If I travel to the United States without ESTA, what happens?

Visa Waiver Program travelers who have not obtained approval through ESTA should expectto be denied boarding on any air carrier bound for the United States. If you are allowed toboard, you can expect to encounter significant delays and possible denial of admission at theU.S. port of entry (i.e., arrival airport). ESTA registration usually only takes a few minutes tocomplete, authorization often arrives in seconds, and it is valid for two years, unless thetraveler’s passport expires within that two-year period. In those cases, ESTA validity islimited to the passport’s validity.back to top

Q.7 If I am a third-country national living in the India, can I apply for a

nonimmigrant visa in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad or Kolkata?Applicants are generally advised to apply in their country of nationality or residence. Anyperson who is legally present in India may apply for a visa in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai,Hyderabad or Kolkata. However, applicants should decide where to apply based on morethan just convenience or delay in getting an appointment in their home district. One thing toconsider, for example, is in which consular district the applicant can demonstrate thestrongest ties.There is no guarantee that a visa will be issued, nor is there a guarantee of processing time. Ifrefused, there is no refund of the application fee.back to top

Q.8 Do all nonimmigrant visa applicants have to come to the Embassy for aninterview?Yes, for most applicants. There are only a few exceptions to the interview requirement. Thefollowing applicants generally do not have to appear in person:

• Applicants who are renewing their visa may be eligible for the Interview WaiverProgram. Please visit the page http://cdn.ustraveldocs.com/in/in-niv-visarenew.asp formore information about interview waiver eligibility.

• Applicants for A1, A2 (official travelers on central government business), C2, C3(central government officials in transit on central government business) or G1, G2, G3,G4 (central government officials traveling in connection with an internationalorganization, or employees of an international organization)

• Children under the age of 14 years of age at the date of the initial visa interview in the

Embassy or Consulate if either of the parents have a valid nonimmigrant visa.• Applicants over 80.

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Q.9 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?


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Yes, unless you are eligible to apply using the Interview Waiver Program. Please visit thepage http://cdn.ustraveldocs.com/in/in-niv-visarenew.asp for further information.back to top

Q.10 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 valid and unmarked or undamaged, you can travel with your two passportstogether (old and new), if the purpose of your travel matches your current nonimmigrantvisa. Also, the name and other personal data must be the same in both passports (unless thename change was due to marriage), and both passports must be from the same country and ofthe same type (i.e., both tourist passports and both diplomatic passports).If your name changed due to marriage, you can travel to the United States with both passportsas well as your marriage certificate.back to top

Q.11 I have accidentally damaged my U.S. visa. Do I need to reapply?If your visa has been damaged, you will need to reapply for a new visa. If your visa wasissued recently, you may not need to have a new interview. More information is available inthe Renew My Visa section of our website.back to top

Q.12 I have dual citizenship. Which passport should I use to travel to the

United States?If one of your nationalities is not U.S., you can apply using whichever nationality you prefer,but you must disclose all nationalities to the Embassy on your application form. U.S. citizens,even dual citizens/nationals, must enter and depart the United States using a U.S. passport.

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Q.13 How can I extend my visa?The validity of a visa cannot be extended regardless of its type. You will need to apply for anew visa.back to top

Q.14 Must I submit my visa application form electronically?Yes, you must complete the DS-160 and bring a printed copy of the the DS-160 confirmationpage with you when you go for your interview at the U.S. Embassy/Consulate and at VisaApplication Centre for Biometric.back to top

Q.15 What is "administrative processing?"Some visa applications require further administrative processing, which takes additional timeafter your interview with a consular officer. You are advised of this possibility when theyapply. Most administrative processing is resolved within 60 days of the visa interview. This


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web page on the Consular Affairs website has more information about administrativeprocessing.back to top

Q.16 How do I read and understand my visa?

As soon as you receive your visa, check to make sure all your personal information printedon the visa is correct. If any of the information on your visa does not match the informationin your passport or is otherwise incorrect, please contact the issuing authority (i.e. the U.S.Embassy) immediately.The expiration date of your visa is the last day you may use the visa to enter the UnitedStates. It does not indicate how long you may stay in the United States. Your stay isdetermined by the Department of Homeland Security at your port of entry. As long as youcomply 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'sConsular Affairs website.back to top

Q.17 My visa was printed incorrectly. What do I do?If you think your visa was printed incorrectly, please email [email protected] and explain why you think there is an error. If necessary, we will provide instructions on howto submit your passport.back to top

Q.18 Why does my visa say "FNU"?If you have only one name or if your name appears in only one line in your passport, then on

the visa your full name will only be printed in the surname field and "First Name Unknown",or "FNU," will be printed in the given name field.back to top

Q.19 My visa will expire while I am in the United States. Is there a problem

with that?No. You may stay in the U.S. for the period of time and conditions authorized by theDepartment of Homeland Security officer when you arrived in the U.S., which will be notedon the I-94, even if your visa expires during your stay. You can find more information here back to top

Q.20 What will happen when I enter the U.S.A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States, but allows a foreign citizen comingfrom 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) officialshave authority to permit or deny admission to the United States, and determine how long atraveler may stay. At the port of entry, upon granting entry to the United States, the Customsand Border Protection officer will stamp the travel document of each arriving non-immigrant


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traveller.The admission stamp will show the date of admission,class of admission, and thedate the traveller is admitted until.Travelers will also receive on arrival a flier alerting them togo to www.cbp.gov/I94 for their admission record information.This online record replacesthe paper I-94 form. Visa Waiver Program travelers receive Form 1-94W. On this form , theofficer records either a date or "D/S" (duration of status). If your I-94 record a specific date,then that is the date by which you must leave the united states. You can review information

about admission on the CBP Website.The Department of State's Consular Affairs website hasmore information about duration of stay.back to top

Q.21 I did not turn in my I-94 when I left the United States. What should I do?On April 30, 2013, U.S. Customs and Border Protection stopped issuing paper I-94 forms inlieu of a digital record. If you received a paper I-94 form and did not surrender it uponleaving the United States, please follow the directions athttps://help.cbp.gov/app/answers/detail/a_id/752/kw/i94.If you entered the U.S. after April 30, 2013, you do not need to take any action, as yourdeparture from the U.S. is automatically recorded.

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Q.22 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 oncompleting the DS-160 can be addressed on the following website,http://travel.state.gov/content/visas/english/forms/ds-160--online-nonimmigrant-visa-application/frequently-asked-questions.html.back to top

FAQ - Visa Refusals1.

What is Section 214(b)? 2. How can an applicant prove "strong ties?" 3.

Is a denial under Section 214(b) permanent? 4. 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 notimpose internal controls on most visitors, such as registration with local authorities. Ourimmigration law requires consular officers to view every visa applicant as an intendingimmigrant until the applicant proves otherwise. In order to enjoy the privilege ofunencumbered 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.back to top

Q.1 What Is Section 214(b)?Section 214(b) is part of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). It states:

Every alien shall be presumed to be an immigrant until he establishes to the satisfaction of

the consular officer, at the time of application for admission, that he is entitled to a

nonimmigrant status.


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Our consular officers have a difficult job. They must decide in a very short time if someone isqualified to receive a temporary visa. Most cases are decided after a brief interview andreview of whatever evidence of ties an applicant presents. To qualify for a visitor or studentvisa, an applicant must meet the requirements of sections 101(a)(15)(B) or (F) of the INArespectively. Failure to do so will result in a refusal of a visa under INA 214(b). The mostfrequent basis for such a refusal concerns the requirement that the prospective visitor or

student possess a residence abroad he/she has no intention of abandoning. Applicants provethe existence of such residence by demonstrating that they have ties abroad that wouldcompel them to leave the United States at the end of the temporary stay. The law places thisburden of proof on the applicant.back to top

Q.2 How can an applicant prove "strong ties?"Strong ties differ from country to country, city to city, and individual to individual. Someexamples of ties can be a job, a house, a family, a bank account. "Ties" are the variousaspects of your life that bind you to your country of residence: your possessions, employment,social and family relationships.

Imagine your own ties in the country where you live. Would a consular office of anothercountry consider that you have a residence there that you do not intend to abandon? It islikely that the answer would be "yes" if you have a job, a family, if you own or rent a houseor apartment, or if you have other commitments that would require you to return to yourcountry at the conclusion of a visit abroad. Each person's situation is different.U.S. consular officers are aware of this diversity. During the visa interview they look at eachapplication individually and consider professional, social, cultural and other factors. In casesof younger applicants who may not have had an opportunity to form many ties, consularofficers may look at the applicants specific intentions, family situations, and long-range plansand prospects within his or her country of residence. Each case is examined individually andis accorded every consideration under the law.back to top

Q.3 Is a denial under Section 214(b) permanent?No. The consular officer will reconsider a case if an applicant can show further convincingevidence of ties outside the United States. Unfortunately, some applicants will not qualify fora nonimmigrant visa, regardless of how many times they reapply, until their personal,professional, and financial circumstances change considerably.An applicant refused under Section 214(b) should review carefully their situation andrealistically evaluate their ties. They may write down on paper what qualifying ties they thinkthey have which may not have been evaluated at the time of their interview with the consularofficer. Also, if they have been refused, they should review what documents were submitted

for the consul to consider. Applicants refused visas under section 214(b) may reapply for avisa. When they do, they will have to show further evidence of their ties or how theircircumstances have changed since the time of the original application. It may help to answerthe following questions before reapplying: (1) Did I explain my situation accurately? (2) Didthe consular officer overlook something? (3) Is there any additional information I can presentto establish my residence and strong ties abroad?Applicants should also bear in mind that they will be charged a nonrefundable application feeeach time they reapply for a visa, regardless of whether a visa is issued and each time theyreply, will have to complete new DS160 visa form.


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Q.4 Who can influence the consular officer to reverse a decision?Immigration law delegates the responsibility for issuance or refusal of visas to consularofficers 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 tothe interpretation of law, as contrasted to determinations of facts. The question at issue insuch 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 ServiceEmbassies/Consulates to resolve. An applicant can influence the Embassy/Consulate tochange a prior visa denial only through the presentation of new convincing evidence of strongties.For information about visa ineligibilities other than 214(b), please visit the Department ofState's Consular Affairs website.back to top

FAQ - Business/Tourist Visa1. How long can I stay in the United States on a tourist or business visa? 2.

My visitor visa (B-1/B-2) expires after my intended date of arrival in the UnitedStates. Do I need to get a new visa before departure?

3.

My U.S. visa will expire in the next 6 months. Do I need to apply for a new visa aftermy current visa expires or can I apply in advance?

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 isthe procedure?

5. My current U.S. visa was issued to me when I was working in my previous job. Now Ihave changed to a new job at a new company and my new employer wants me toattend a conference in the United States, scheduled for next month. Can I use thesame visa or do I have to apply for a new visa?

6. My child is studying in the United States. Can I go live with him/her? 7.

I have a previous B1 visa that is going to expire next month. Can I apply for a B1/B2visa under Interview Waiver Program?

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 andBorder Protection officer who processes your entry will determine the length of time that youmay remain in the country. You may travel to the Port of Entry during the validity of yournonimmigrant 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 theCustoms and Border Protection officer can decide this upon your arrival in the United States.back to top

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


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the United States. Your visa can expire while you are still in the United States – just be surethat you do not overstay the period of time the officer grants.back to top

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 ifyour current visa is valid.back to top

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. You can travel to the UnitedStates with both passports as well as your marriage certificate, or you can apply for a new

visa.back to top

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 businessor pleasure.If your Visa is annoted with your previous company name then you cannot travelon the same visa and need to apply fresh.back to top

Q.6 My child is studying in the United States. Can I go live with him/her?While you can use your own B-1/B-2 visa (or travel under the Visa Waiver Program, ifeligible) to visit your child, you may not live with your child unless you have your ownimmigrant, work, or student visa.back to top

Q.7 I have a previous B1 visa that is going to expire next month. Can I apply

for a B1/B2 visa under Interview Waiver Program?

You can check your qualifications for the Interview Waiver Programhttp://www.ustraveldocs.com/in/in-niv-visarenew.asp. back to top

FAQ - Work Visa1.

What is a petition? 2. Can I get a visa to do casual work? 3.

Is there an age limit for applying for a temporary work visa?


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4. Can my U.S.-based relative sponsor me for a work visa? 5. When can I enter the United States? 6.

Who pays the Fraud Prevention and Detection fee and when do they pay it? 7. I am applying to renew my L1 Blanket visa. Do I need to pay the Fraud Prevention

and Detection fee? 8. I would like to renew my H1B/L1 visa. Do I qualify for the Interview Waiver

Program? 9. When I was last in the US, I changed my status from one classification [e.g. Student

(F1) or Temporary Worker (H1B)] to another. Do I need a new non-immigrant visa? 10. My H1B Employment Petition (USCIS Form I-797) shows an employment start date.

How early can I apply for an H1B visa at the Consulate? 11. I am applying for an H1B/L1 visa and would like my spouse to travel with me. Can he

or she apply for a dependant visa (H4/L2) at the same time as me or should they waituntil my visa has been issued?

12. Can a person on a dependent visa work in the US? 13. I have a valid H1B visa which contains my previous petitioner’s details. I have

changed my employer with valid I-797 and am back in India for a short trip. Can Itravel back to US on the same visa or do I need to apply for a new visa?Can a person

on a dependent visa work in the US? 14.

I currently have a valid B1/B2 visa. If my H1B visa is stamped, will my B1/B2 visabe cancelled?

15.

The Consular Officer did not return my petition or other documents back at the end ofthe interview. What should I do?

16. I have a valid H1B or L1 petition, but the visa in my passport is expired. I amcurrently in India and need to urgently travel back to US to continue my work. Whatshould I do?

17. What form is required for an L-1 Blanket visa?

Q.1 What is a petition?Before applying for a temporary worker visa at the U.S. Embassy, you must have anapproved Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker, from USCIS. This petition must besubmitted by your prospective employer no earlier than 6 months prior to your proposedemployment start date. Your employer should file the petition as soon as possible within the6-month period to allow adequate time for processing. Once approved, your employer will besent Form I-797, Notice of Action. For more information, visit the USCIS TemporaryWorkers webpage.Note: To verify your petition's approval the Embassy or Consulate needs your I-129 petitionreceipt number, along with a copy of your approved Form I-797. Please bring both of these toyour interview.back to top

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 UnitedStates must have an approved petition prior to their visa appointment.back to top

Q.3 Is there an age limit for applying for a temporary work visa?No. There is no age limit to apply for a temporary work visa.


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Q.4 Can my U.S.-based relative sponsor me for a work visa?No. Only your employer can sponsor you.back to top

Q.5 When can I enter the United States?You may not enter the United States until 10 days prior to your employment start date, asnoted on your Form I-797 or on your offer of employment letter.back to top

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 theFraud Prevention and Detection fee to USCIS when the petition is filed. These fees are to bepaid at the Embassy/Consulates with a demand draft/cashier’s cheque.back to top

Q.7 I am applying to renew my L1 Blanket visa. Do I need to pay the Fraud

Prevention and Detection fee?Yes. You need to pay the Fraud Prevention and Detection fee again.back to top

Q.8 I would like to renew my H1B/L1 visa. Do I qualify for the InterviewWaiver Program?You can check your qualification for the Interview Waiver Program athttp://cdn.ustraveldocs.com/in/in-niv-visarenew.asp. If you do not qualify for the InterviewWaiver Program, you will need to make a regular application.back to top

Q.9 When I was last in the US, I changed my status from one classification

[e.g. Student (F1) or Temporary Worker (H1B)] to another. Do I need a new

non-immigrant visa?

Yes. If you have changed your status, you must also present evidence that you did so lawfullyby providing USCIS Form I-797 (Notice of Action) for Change/Adjustment of Status to theConsular Officer at the time of your visa interview.back to top


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Q.10 My H1B Employment Petition (USCIS Form I-797) shows an

employment start date. How early can I apply for an H1B visa at the

Consulate?You can apply for an H1B visa up to 90 days before the petition start date listed on the formI-797, Notice of Action. However, you cannot enter the US earlier than 10 days prior to thestart date listed on the I-797 unless you are already working on an H1B visa for the same

petitioner.back to top

Q.11 I am applying for an H1B/L1 visa and would like my spouse to travel

with me. Can he or she apply for a dependant visa (H4/L2) at the same time as

me or should they wait until my visa has been issued?We recommend that the spouse and dependent children go for their visa interview at the sametime as the principal applicant.back to top

Q.12 Can a person on a dependent visa work in the US?Whether someone on a dependent visa can work in the U.S. depends on the visa category. Forinstance, H4 dependents cannot work while many L2 dependents can. Please check here. back to top

Q.13 I have a valid H1B visa which contains my previous petitioner’s details. I

have changed my employer with valid I-797 and am back in India for a short

trip. Can I travel back to US on the same visa or do I need to apply for a new

visa?Can a person on a dependent visa work in the US?

In general, if you have a new petition with a different employer, you need to apply for a newvisa. In certain situations (such as corporate restructuring), it may be possible to travel backwith your current I-797 and visa. Further information can be found through the U.S. Customsand Border Protection Info Center.back to top

Q.14 I currently have a valid B1/B2 visa. If my H1B visa is stamped, will my

B1/B2 visa be cancelled?Generally, no. It is usually permitted to hold multiple visas as long as they are different visaclassifications. However, the final decision rests with the the Consular Officer.back to top

Q.15 The Consular Officer did not return my petition or other documents

back at the end of the interview. What should I do?The Consular Officer generally returns all the documents back to the applicant at the end ofthe interview. You may remind the Officer about the documents submitted him or her at theend of the interview. If the Officer needs to keep any official documents after they interview,


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they will be returned with the passport However, be sure to you keep a photocopy of yourpetition or other important document at home, in case anything is misplaced.back to top

Q.16 I have a valid H1B or L1 petition, but the visa in my passport is expired.

I am currently in India and need to urgently travel back to US to continue mywork. What should I do?You will need to apply for a new visa in order to re-enter US. You can check yourqualification for the Interview Waiver Program http://cdn.ustraveldocs.com/in/in-niv-visarenew.asp.back to top

Q.17 What form is required for an L-1 Blanket visa?The I-129S form is required to apply for an L-1 Blanket visa. USCIS has recently created anew version of form I-129S.

From September 9, 2013, Posts will no longer accept older versions of the formback to top

FAQ - Student Visa1. What is an I-20 and how do I get it? 2.

How early should I apply for my student visa? 3. I received my visa, when should I travel? 4.

Can a person on a visitor visa change his/her status to student while in the UnitedStates if he/she gains admission to a school and gets a Form I-20?

5.

What if I receive an I-20 to a different school? 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? 7. Can an F-1 student work in the United States? 8.

What is the SEVIS system and how does it affect me? 9. Can my dependents apply for a tourist visa instead of dependent visa if they only want

to visit me and stay in U.S. for a short period of time?

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 aprospective nonimmigrant student must have in order to get an F-1 or M-1 visa. Form I-20acts as proof-of-acceptance and contains the information necessary to pay the SEVIS I-901fee, apply for a visa or change visa status, and be admitted into the United States. The FormI-20 has the student's SEVIS identification number, which starts with the letter N and is

followed by nine digits, on the upper righthand side directly above the barcode.back to top

Q.2 How early should I apply for my student visa?You are encouraged to apply for your nonimmigrant student visa as soon as you have your I-20. To ensure you get an early and timely date you may apply at anytime. However, a studentvisa may be issued no more than 120 days prior to the start date mentioned on your I-20.


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Q.3 I received my visa, when should I travel?You may only enter the United States within 30 days of the beginning of the course of studystated on your I-20, regardless of when your visa was issued.

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Q.4 Can a person on a visitor visa change his/her status to student while in the

United States if he/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 lawfullyadmitted to the United States with a nonimmigrant visa, if your nonimmigrant status remainsvalid, if you have not violated the conditions of your status, and you have not committed anyactions that would make you ineligible. For more details, please visit the USCIS website.back to top

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.back to top

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 thevisa is only for entry into the United States. Check with USCIS to determine if you need toadjust status. If you leave the country, however, you'll need to apply for the student visa in

order to re-enter the United States.back to top

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 perweek. After the first year in student status, an applicant may apply for employment offcampus with authorization from USCIS. Please contact your student advisor for furtherinformation.back to top

Q.8 What is the SEVIS system and how does it affect me?The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) program requires schoolsand exchange programs to verify the enrollment status of all new and continuing foreignstudents and exchange visitors. Student visa applicants are required to pay a SEVIS fee before a visa can be issued. Applicants are then required to provide the SEVIS I-901 feereceipt as proof of payment. The SEVIS website has more details.back to top


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Q.9 Can my dependents apply for a tourist visa instead of dependent visa if

they only want to visit me and stay in U.S. for a short period of time?Yes, they can apply for a Tourist visa.back to top

FAQ - Exchange Visitor Visa

1. I received my visa, when should I travel? 2.

What is the SEVIS system and how does it affect me? 3. What is the "two-year rule?" 4.

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 theprogram, as stated on your Form DS-2019, regardless of when your visa was issued.back to top

Q.2 What is the SEVIS system and how does it affect me?The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) program requires schoolsand exchange programs to verify the enrollment status of all new and continuing foreignstudents and exchange visitors. Exchange visitor visa applicants are required to pay a SEVISfee before a visa can be issued. Applicants are required to provide the SEVIS I-901 feereceipt as proof of payment. The SEVIS website has more details.back to top

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 whichrequires many exchange visitors to return to their home countries and be physically presentthere for at least two years after the conclusion of their exchange visit before they can returnto the United States under certain types of visas, specifically H-1, L-1, K-1 and immigrantvisas. It is important to note that only a preliminary finding of whether the two-year ruleapplies to you is made on your DS-2019 when your J-1 visa is issued. The final decision willbe 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 Statesand apply for an adjustment/change of status to a prohibited nonimmigrant status (forexample, 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 amountof time you spend in the United States.back to top

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


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what is annotated in your passport. If you are subject to the two-year rule, you may be able toobtain a waiver. Even if you are subject to the two-year rule, you may still qualify for atourist visa or any other nonimmigrant visa except those noted above.back to top

FAQ - Transit/Ship Crew Visa1. 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? 2. I wish to apply for a two visas (C1D & B1/B2). What should I do? 3. I have a valid C1D visa. During my stay at port, can I enter US for tourism or to visit

friends or family without holding a valid B1/B2 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 ofvisa required for that purpose, such as a B-2 visa.back to top

Q.2 I wish to apply for a two visas (C1D & B1/B2). What should I do?You should fill out one DS-160 visa application form and pay one visa fee in order toschedule an appointment for your C1D visa. At the time of the interview, you can request thatthe Officer also consider your application for a B1/B2 visa. If approved, you will not need topay an additional fee. Please note that this dual visa arrangement only exists for C1D andB1/B2 visas, not for other visa combinations.back to top

Q.3 I have a valid C1D visa. During my stay at port, can I enter US for

tourism or to visit friends or family without holding a valid B1/B2 visa?You may be allowed to enter the US during your stay; however it is at the sole discretion ofthe Customs and Border Patrol officials at the Port of Entry.back to top

FAQ - Religious Worker Visa1.

I am applying for a religious worker visa, but do not have an approved petition. I havebeen to the United States previously with an R-1 visa and was not required to have thepetition. Can I apply for an R-1 visa without the petition since I had an R-1 visa in the

past?

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 applicantsapplying for an R-1 nonimmigrant visa are required to have an approved petition from U.S.


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Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). For more information, please visit the USCISwebsite.back to top

FAQ - Lost/Stolen - Passports/Visas

1.

What should I do if my visa is lost or stolen?

Q.1 What should I do if my visa is lost or stolen?If the loss/theft took place in India, you must report the loss of your passport and visa to thelocal Indian Police and obtain a police report. If this happened overseas, please obtain apolice report from that locale. Then report the loss of the visa to [email protected], including the following information:

1. Your name, date and place of birth, and nationality.2. The city where your visa was issued (Mumbai, Chennai, New Delhi, Hyderabad, or

Kolkata).3. Your address and phone number.4. A photocopy of the lost visa, if available, or the date and place of issuance, if known.

5.

A photocopy of the bio-data page of your lost passport, if available. If not, thenationality and number of your lost passport as well as the issuance and expirationdates, if available.

6. Circumstances of the loss: When and how your passport was lost or stolen.7.

Copy of the police report for the stolen passportback to top

FAQ - Retrieve My Passport/Visa

1. When will I receive my passport after visa is processed? 2.

Why only one passport per envelope? Why no family discounts? 3. How will I get my passport back after the interview? 4.

What do I need to show to pick up the passport at the Document Delivery location? 5. What happens to my passport if I'm unable to collect it from the Document Delivery

location?

Q.1 When will I receive my passport after visa is processed?Although visa processing time is typically three working days, processing time for specificcases may vary due to individual circumstances and other special requirements. You maypick up the passport from the location you chose at the time of appointment scheduling.back to top

Q.2 Why only one passport per envelope? Why no family discounts?There is no additional charge for the courier to return your passport to you. All costs areincluded in your visa application fee. The courier's security and safety rules require separatetracking of every passport.back to top

Q.3 How will I get my passport back after the interview?


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You must pick up your passport from the document delivery location you selected at the timeyou scheduled your interview. If you want to change this location you may do so untilmidnight of the day before your appointment. If you are planning urgent travel, the courierlocation closest to the location of your interview may result in a faster pick-up time. The costof the passport pick up from the document delivery location you selected is included in thevisa application fee.

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Q.4 What do I need to show to pick up the passport at the Document Delivery

location?In order to ensure that your passport and visa are not given to an unauthorized person,pleasecarry all listed documents as per link to collect your passport from selected documentdelivery location.back to top

Q.5 What happens to my passport if I'm unable to collect it from theDocument Delivery location ?Please note that passports not collected within 14 calendar days from 11 service centers orwithin 7 working days from 22 Blue Dart locations will be RETURNED to the respective U.S.Embassy/Consulate and applicants will need to pick up their passports/documents directlyfrom U.S. Embassy/Consulate. As the Consulates and Embassy have limited hours to returnpassports, this will be at great delay to you. For more information, please see this link .back to top

FAQ - Visa Application Center1. Why must applicants go to the Visa Application Center?

2.

May I schedule my Visa Application Center appointment on the same day as my visainterview appointment?

3.

Do I need to pay an additional fee for the Visa Application Center service? 4. Who must go to the Visa Application Center?

Q.1 Why must applicants go to the Visa Application Center?Applicants for U.S. visas are required to appear in person for an appointment at the VisaApplication Centre. Biometric information including fingerprints and digital photographs willbe collected. Child below 14years of age is not required to attend the interview at VisaApplication Center . Accompany/Guardians/Parents can carry the child documents with onehard copy photograph as per US Visa Specification. For photo specification follow link .back to top

Q.2 May I schedule my Visa Application Center appointment on the same day

as my visa interview appointment?You must schedule your Visa Application Centre appointment at least one day before the visainterview appointment date at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. For L1 Blanket visa applicantmay schedule Visa Application Centre and Consulate appointment on the same day.back to top


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Q.3 Do I need to pay an additional fee for the Visa Application Center service?No, the visa fee includes the Visa Application Centre service.back to top

Q.4 Who must go to the Visa Application Center?All applicants are required to schedule an appointment at the Visa Application Centre unlessthey qualify for the Interview Waiver Program.Note: Children below 14yrs are not required to be present at Visa Application Center on theday of appointment. Parents/Guardians can carry child application with them along with onehardcopy photograph as per US visa specification. For photo specification follow link .back to top

FAQ - Group Appointments

1.

What is the process to schedule group appointment? 2.

My group request is denied can I submit a new request? 3.

How do you pay a bulk payment for a group appointment? 4. My group appointment request for 50 applicants is approved by the

Embassy/Consulate, can I add more applicants on the same request? 5. Why am I able to see the VAC appointments dates but not the Embassy/Consulate

requested date? 6. I have cancelled my current group appointment date. Can I schedule a new

appointment date? 7. Why do I receive an error when I add new applicant details to the approved group

applicant count?

Q.1 What is the process to schedule group appointment?You may refer to the How to Apply section on the group appointment page.back to top

Q.2 My group request is denied can I submit a new request?There are no restrictions on how many requests you can submit, however it is suggested thatnew requests are only submitted if there is a change in circumstances.back to top

Q.3 How do you pay a bulk payment for a group appointment?

It is possible to make a bulk payment using the National Electronics Fund Transfer (NEFT)platform on the group appointment page. Please choose the appropriate visa type and quantity;your browser will automatically be redirected to the page containing payment instructions.You can also make a payment at a Citibank/Axis bank location. See the payment page forinstructions.back to top


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Q.4 My group appointment request for 50 applicants is approved by the

Embassy/Consulate, can I add more applicants on the same request?You cannot exceed the allocated applicant count that is approved. You need to submit a newgroup request to the Embassy/Consulate for the additional count.back to top

Q.5 Why am I able to see the VAC appointments dates but not the

Embassy/Consulate requested date?Interview slots may not be available on the requested date. We recommend you immediatelyschedule the group appointment once you receive the approval from the Embassy/Consulateelse the slots will be utilized and the desired appointment slots will not available.back to top

Q.6 I have cancelled my current group appointment date. Can I schedule a

new appointment date?

You need to submit a new group request to schedule an appointment date at the Embassy orConsulate.back to top

Q.7 Why do I receive an error when I add new applicant details to the

approved group applicant count?Please make sure if the below points are checked before you contact the call center

a. Make sure the profile of the same applicant is not entered twice.b. Check the total number of applicants added to the approved count.c. Check if any applicant receipt is untagged to the profile.

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FAQ - Application Profile1.

How do I reset my password?

Q.1 How do I reset my password?Click the Forgot Your Password? link at the bottom of this web page. Enter your emailaddress in the Username field and click Submit . The email address you type must match theemail address you used when you began your visa application. A new password will be sentto your email address.Note: The email with your new password will come from [email protected]. Some

email applications have rules which filter unknown senders into a spam or junk mail folder. Ifyou have not received your email notification, please look for the message in your junk andspam email folders.back to top

FAQ – Immigrant Visa General Questions

1.

What is the difference between an immigrant and nonimmigrant visa? 2. What may delay a decision on my application?


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3. What else could delay a decision on my application? 4. Will the same consular officer talk to me if I have to return to the U.S. Embassy or

Consulate? 5. Can I request an earlier interview appointment? Or if I did not come for my scheduled

interview, can I request a new interview appointment? 6. Can the children of an immigrant visa applicant be included in a single petition?

7.

Can my child, who is nearing 21 years old, be issued a visa before he turns 21? 8. What happens if a petition is filed by a Lawful Permanent Resident (F2A or F2B) and

the petitioner becomes a U.S. citizen before the applicant is called for an interview? 9. I immigrated to the United States as the adopted child of a petitioner. Now that I am a

U. S. citizen, can I petition for my natural parent(s)? 10. We have raised a child who is neither our biological nor legally adopted child. Can

he/she be included as a derivative on our immigrant visa application? 11. I was petitioned by a relative several years ago, but my petitioner has moved back to

India. Can I still immigrate to the United States? 12. Can a child born outside the United States to a Lawful Permanent Resident enter the

United States? 13. If Lawful Permanent Resident parents leave their newborn child abroad with family

members, return to the United States and later want the child to join them, what mustthey do?

14. I was a Lawful Permanent Resident ("Green Card" holder) who left the United Statesfor several years. Can I still return to the United States using my Green Card?

15. How can I enter the Diversity Visa or green card lottery? 16. Can a U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident file a petition at any Embassy or

Consulate for a relative? 17. Can I still qualify for a tourist visa if I have a pending immigrant petition? 18. Where can I find additional information on Immigrant Visas?

Q.1 What is the difference between an immigrant and nonimmigrant visa?An immigrant visa is issued to a qualified person who has an approved petition based on afamily or work relationship and who wishes to live in the United States permanently. Anonimmigrant visa is issued to a person who is traveling to the United States for a specificpurpose (vacation, studies, medical treatment, business, temporary work) and who will departthe U.S. after completion of that purpose.back to top

Q.2 What may delay a decision on my application?A decision on your applicant will be delayed if you fail to follow instructions and come toyour interview without required documentation. It could also be delayed if you do not comewith recommended secondary documents to help establish your qualifications. When you

cannot present required or secondary supporting documents, your application will be refusedunder Section 221(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. You will be provided a pendingletter indicating the additional documentation you must present for your application to becompleted.back to top

Q.3 What else could delay a decision on my application?


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The U.S. Embassy or Mumbai Consulate may ask the Indian government agency in charge ofcivil records or other official agencies to confirm or verify information about an applicant.An applicant with a spouse or a fiancé(e) petition, for example, must provide documentationto show termination of any prior marriages. Consular officers may also conductinvestigations to determine whether applicants are legally eligible to receive visas.These extra steps can delay visa issuance. Applicants are advised not to finalize their travel

arrangements until they have received their visas.back to top

Q.4 Will the same consular officer talk to me if I have to return to the U.S.

Embassy or Consulate?You might see a different consular officer upon return. All officers have access to theinformation about your case and will review your application based on the same requirements.back to top

Q.5 Can I request an earlier interview appointment? Or if I did not come formy scheduled interview, can I request a new interview appointment?Requests for earlier appointments are granted only if there are available slots. If you wish toreschedule your appointment to an earlier date or have missed a previously scheduledappointment, you should write to [email protected] to top

Q.6 Can the children of an immigrant visa applicant be included in a single

petition?Children of U.S. citizens are considered Immediate Relatives (IR) and must have individualpetitions filed for them. Petitions for immediate relatives may be filed simultaneously at U.S.

Citizenship and Immigration Services. Children of applicants with family-based petitions (Fcategory) may derive immigration benefits from the same petition provided that they aresingle and under 21. Such children are called derivatives for purposes of immigration. Onlybiological or legally-adopted children are entitled to derivative status. A non-orphan adoptedchild must have been legally adopted before the age of 16 and must have been in the physicaland legal custody of the adoptive parent for at least two years. A child born after a petitionwas filed and approved may be registered or added on to the petition as a derivative. Theprincipal applicant should submit photocopies of the child's birth certificate and child’spassport to the NVC or the U.S. Embassy or Mumbai Consulate and pay the correspondingvisa processing fee.back to top

Q.7 Can my child, who is nearing 21 years old, be issued a visa before he turns

21?If visa numbers are available for you (or your visa case becomes current for processing) andyour child is aging out (or turning 21), we are prepared to expedite the processing of theapplication. However, it is still the applicant's responsibility to complete the applicationrequirements in a timely manner. U.S. immigration law requires that visa applications bestrictly processed according to priority date because of the limited number of visas available


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worldwide. This means the U.S. Embassy or Mumbai Consulate will not process visaapplications until priority dates are current.If you plan to immigrate to the United States with your children, or to have your children joinyou in the United States later, you must prove that your children are:

• Unmarried• Eligible to be listed under your visa classification, and

•

Under the age of 21 at the time they enter the United StatesIf your child will soon turn 21, your child could become ineligible to immigrate with you. Ifyour child cannot immigrate with you because of his or her age, then a separate petition mustbe filed for your child and there may be a significant delay before your child becomes eligiblefor the visa.If visas are available in your visa category before your child's birthday, the NVC may be ableto expedite your case so that you and your child can immigrate together. Unfortunately, ifvisas are not available before the child's birthday, the NVC cannot expedite the case.There is also a law called the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA), which applies to a narrowrange of cases and may allow the principal applicant's son or daughter to remain eligiblebeyond age 21 under this petition. At the time of the parent's visa interview, the consularofficer will determine whether or not CSPA is applicable in your particular situation.

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Q.8 What happens if a petition is filed by a Lawful Permanent Resident (F2A

or F2B) and the petitioner becomes a U.S. citizen before the applicant is called

for an interview?If you filed a petition for your spouse and/or minor children when you were a lawfulpermanent resident (LPR), and you are now a U.S. citizen, you must upgrade the petitionfrom family second preference (F2) to immediate relative (IR). You can do this by sendingproof of your U.S. citizenship to the National Visa Center (NVC). You should send:

• A copy of the bio data page of your U.S. passport; or•

A copy of your certificate of naturalizationImportant Notice: If you upgrade a family second preference (F2) petition for your spouseand you did not file separate petitions for your minor children when you were an LPR, youmust do so now. A child is not included in an immediate relative (IR) petition. (This isdifferent from the family second preference (F2) petition, which includes minor children intheir parents’ F2 petitions.)Children born abroad after you became a U.S. citizen may qualify for U.S. citizenship. Theyshould apply for U.S. passports. A consular officer in the American Citizens Services Unitwill determine whether your child is a U.S. citizen and can have a passport. If the consularofficer determines your child is not a U.S. citizen, the child must apply for an immigrant visaif he/she wants to live in the United States.http://travel.state.gov/content/visas/english/immigrate/types/family/family-preference.html#5

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Q.9 I immigrated to the United States as the adopted child of a petitioner.

Now that I am a U. S. citizen, can I petition for my natural parent(s)?No. Once you receive an immigrant visa as an adopted child, your biological parents can nolonger benefit from a petition that you file.back to top


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Q.10 We have raised a child who is neither our biological nor legally adopted

child. Can he/she be included as a derivative on our immigrant visa

application?No. A child may only become your derivative if that child is born to you or meets the

definition of an adopted child under the Immigration and Nationality Act. If you attempt tobring in a child who does not meet any of these definitions, you risk being denied animmigrant visa and being barred permanently from entering the United States. See AdoptedChildren for more information on adopting in India.back to top

Q.11 I was petitioned by a relative several years ago, but my petitioner has

moved back to India. Can I still immigrate to the United States?U.S. immigration law requires that petitioners be domiciled or reside in the United States.The purpose of family-sponsored immigrant visas is to reunite family members. For more

information on this issue, please visithttp://travel.state.gov/content/visas/english/immigrate/types/family/immediate-relative.html#4 back to top

Q.12 Can a child born outside the United States to a Lawful Permanent

Resident enter the United States?A child born abroad to parents who are U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents may enter theUnited States without a visa, provided the child is accompanied by a parent, upon thatparent's first return to the United States within two years of the child's birth. The parent mustprovide reliable documentation showing the parent-child relationship.

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Q.13 If Lawful Permanent Resident parents leave their newborn child abroad

with family members, return to the United States and later want the child to

join them, what must they do?The child must have an immigrant visa to enter the United States. The Lawful PermanentResident parent(s) must file an F2A (minor child) or F2B (unmarried child over 21 years old)preference petition with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This can involve await of several years in India.back to top

Q.14 I was a Lawful Permanent Resident ("Green Card" holder) who left the

United States for several years. Can I still return to the United States using

my Green Card?As a Lawful Permanent Resident you may not remain outside the United States for more thanone (1) year unless you receive a re-entry permit from the U.S. Citizenship and ImmigrationServices (USCIS) before your departure from the United States. Otherwise, you are


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considered to have forfeited your status and must either be re-petitioned or apply for aReturning Resident Visa. The returning resident visa is granted only when circumstancesbeyond your control prevented you from returning to your U.S. domicile within the requiredperiod of time.back to top

Q.15 How can I enter the Diversity Visa or green card lottery?Indian citizens are not included in the diversity immigrant program. Persons of othernationalities resident in India may be included. More information on the lottery can be foundat http://travel.state.gov/content/visas/english/immigrate/diversity-visa/entry.html back to top

Q.16 Can a U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident file a petition at any

Embassy or Consulate for a relative?Authority to accept a petition rests solely with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services(USCIS). Petitions must be filed in the petitioner's place of residence. If the petitioner residesin the United States, the petitioner must file at the USCIS office that has jurisdiction over hisor her place of residence. If a petitioner resides in India, he or she should contact the U.S.Citizenship and Immigration Services office at the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi.back to top

Q.17 Can I still qualify for a tourist visa if I have a pending immigrant

petition?Yes. Having an immigrant petition on file is not grounds for an automatic refusal for anonimmigrant visa. However, the consular officer reviewing your nonimmigrant visaapplication will require strong evidence that you are not intending to immigrate at this time

and that you will return to India after your temporary visit to the United States.back to top

Q.18 Where can I find additional information on Immigrant Visas?http://travel.state.gov/content/visas/english/immigrate.html back to top

FAQ - Immigrant Visa Fees1.

Why are fees constantly changing?

Q.1 Why are fees constantly changing?We periodically update our fees to ensure that the Department of State recovers the true costsof providing consular services, as required by law. The changes to our fee schedule reflectmore accurately the true expenditure of doing business. This way, services of direct benefit toindividuals, organizations, or groups are paid for by the users rather than by taxpayers ingeneral. Fees paid in the local currency at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate are alsoperiodically adjusted for fluctuations in the exchange rate.back to top


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FAQ - K Fiance Visas1. How do I schedule a K visa interview? 2.

Need to cancel / reschedule my K visa application. 3. Where do I submit the documents requested by the consular officer?

4.

I wish to withdraw my K visa petition / application? 5. Where can I find additional information on K visas?

Q.1 How do I schedule a K visa interview?After the consulate has received the approved visa petition according your status as a fiancé(e), you will receive a letter from the consulate instructing you about the required documentsand how to schedule your visa interview.Step 1:

Obtain your Police Clearance Certificate from the Regional Passport Office.Step 2:

Complete your medical examination with an approved panel physician from the list availableat http://mumbai.usconsulate.gov/medical_examination2.html.

Step 3:Complete Form DS-160 online at ImmigrantVisas.state.gov and print the confirmation letter.Please do this for the fiancé and any derivative children who will be applying for a visa.Step 4:

Go to here. Create a user account, select your passport/visa pick-up location and pay yournonimmigrant K visa fee.Step 5:

Only after completing Steps 1-4, log in to here to schedule two appointments: Oneappointment for biometric fingerprint and photo collection at the Visa Application Center(VAC) and one appointment at the Consulate.back to top

Q.2 Need to cancel / reschedule my K visa application.Login to here and cancel your existing appointment and reschedule your K visa application.Please Note:After the consulate has received the approved visa petition from National Visa Centeraccording your status as a fiancé (e), you will receive a letter from the consulate instructingyou about the required documents and how to schedule your visa interview. If you haven’treceived a letter please email [email protected] to top

Q.3 Where do I submit the documents requested by the consular officer?

If your case is pending please follow instructions for document submission:Submit the requested documents at either one of the five Visa Application Centers (VAC) or6 VFS (Visa Facilitation Service) offices. Visit here for location details and registration.Please print the 221(g) courier submission letter and submit it along with the requireddocuments and the 221(g) letter.back to top


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Q.4 I wish to withdraw my K visa petition / application?If you would like to withdraw the K petition you filed on behalf of a beneficiary please sendus a signed, notarized, and dated letter of your intent to withdraw by post to our mailingaddress below or via email to [email protected] mailing address is:Immigrant Visa Unit

American Consulate GeneralC-48, G- BlockBandra Kurla ComplexBandra (East), Mumbai 400051back to top

Q.5 Where can I find additional information on K visas?http://travel.state.gov/content/visas/english/immigrate/types/family/fiance-k-1.html For any inquiries call: From India: 91 120 4844644 or 91 40 46258222; From US: 1 – 703 -520-2239 (8.00am to 8.00pm Monday through Friday and 9.00 am to 6.00 pm on Sunday)Email: [email protected] to top

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