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You are here: Home / Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

  • 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?
  • 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?

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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 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.11 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.12 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.13 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.14 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.15 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.16 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.17 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.18 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.19 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 .

  • 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 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 .

  • 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.

  • 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?

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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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?

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.

  • 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?

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 .

  • 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?

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  [email protected]  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.

  • 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?

This policy is set to expire at 11:59 PM on December 31, 2023.

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.

  • 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”.

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
  • Your representative's full name as shown on their government-issued photo ID
  • 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.

  • 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?
  • 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.

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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.

  • 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  [email protected] . 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.

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How to apply for or renew a U.S. tourist visa

If you visit the U.S. for tourism or business, you may need a visitor visa, also known as a tourist visa. Learn how to get and renew this type of nonimmigrant visa.

Find out if you need a visa to visit the U.S.

Check if your country participates in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) . If it does, you can get a waiver and will not need a visa. If you do not see your country listed, you will need a visitor visa.

Visitor (tourist) visas and other travel documents for entering the U.S.

The visitor visa is a type of nonimmigrant visa for people who wish to temporarily enter the U.S. There are two categories:

  • B-1 for business travel
  • B-2 for tourism and medical treatment

Learn about B-1 and B-2 visas , including:

  • Reasons you would need each type of visitor visa
  • How to apply
  • What documents you will need
  • Application fees
  • How to prepare for your interview at your U.S. embassy or consulate

Along with your visa, you must bring a passport issued by your country of citizenship. When you arrive at your port of entry into the U.S., officials will issue you a Form I-94, which electronically records your arrival and departure dates. Learn more about Form I-94.

How to renew a visitor visa

The process to renew a visitor visa is the same as getting one for the first time. Follow the process to apply for a visitor visa from the Department of State.

Find the contact information for your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and contact them for visa renewal information.

Understand expiration dates for visas and I-94 forms

  • The date you must depart the U.S. will be shown on your Form I-94. This date is determined by the Customs and Border Protection officer when you arrive at the port-of-entry into the U.S. 
  • Only diplomatic visa holders and their dependents can renew their visas while they are in the U.S.

LAST UPDATED: May 31, 2024

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Ministry of Home Affairs

Department of immigration.

Kalikasthan, Kathmandu.

  • Tourist Visa

Tourist Visa 2074-10-18

Immigration Offices, under Department of Immigration have been facilitating tourists flying to Nepal by providing Visa on Arrival. 'On Arrival' visa procedure is very quick and simple. You can expect some queues during peak Tourist season. If you wish to skip those queues, you can also consider getting Visa from Nepalese Diplomatic Missions stationed abroad prior to your arrival. Choice is yours.

 If you have obtained visa from Nepalese Diplomatic Missions, then you must enter Nepal within six months from the visa issued date. Your total stay is counted starting from the day you enter into Nepal.

Visas obtained on Arrival at the Entry and Exit points are 'Tourist Visas'.  They bear multiple Re entry facility. Tourist Visa 'On Arrival' is the only entry visa to Nepal. If you are visiting Nepal for the purposes other than Tourism (sightseeing, tour, travel, mountaineering, trekking, visiting friends and families), you should still get ' Tourist Visa' to get into the country.  However, you must change the category of visa as per your purpose and length of stay in Nepal from Department of Immigration by producing required documents.

Nationals of following countries are requested to acquire Visa prior their arrival from their nearby Diplomatic missions (Embassies/consulates) of Nepal Government.  

  • Afghanistan
  • Refugees with travel document

Please follow these simple procedures for Tourist Visa on Arrival at the airport (TIA)  if you have not acquired Visa prior to boarding the plane.

  • Fill in ' Arrival Card '
  • Fill in Online ‘Tourist Visa ‘form ( you can fill it up  prior to your arrival  visiting our official website   Department of Immigration  / fill it up using Kiosk machines upon your arrival at the airport).  If you fill it from the website, you will get submission Receipt with barcode, please print it out and bring it along for acquiring visa. It works for fifteen days and becomes invalid then after.  If so, you will have to fill it up again.
  • Make payment  at the bank according to your visa requirement ( 15/30/90 Days)
  • Get the receipt

While you can use different modes of payments (at visa fees collection counter), we advise you to carry some cash to be on the safe side.

On Arrival Visa Fee at Entry Points

15 Days – 30 USD

30 Days – 50 USD

90 Days – 125 USD

  • Proceed to the Immigration Desk with your online form,  payment receipts and your passport
  • Hand in your documents to immigration officer for visa processing. He/she issues visa to you upon his/her satisfaction.

Visa Extension Fee 

  • Tourist visa extension is done for minimum 15 days with USD 45 and USD 3 per day for additional days.
  • In the case of delay less than 150 days additional USD 5 per day as late fine.

Gratis Visa (Visa for Free)

Gratis Visa is issued free of cost in case of following categories of Visa applicants:

  • Children below 10 years except US citizens
  • Up to 30 days for SAARC Citizen (except Afghanistan) visiting Nepal for the first time in a given visa Year.  Afghan citizen are eligible for Gratis Visa on Arrival only upon the recommendation of Department of Immigration. If you are an Afghan citizen, you can request concerned institution inviting you to Nepal for necessary paperwork with Department of Immigration to get you Gratis Visa 'On Arrival'.
  • Non Residential Nepalese(NRN) card holder ( issued by MoFA /Nepalese diplomatic missions abroad)
  • Chinese Nationals for 150 days

Officials from 

  • Thailand – Exemption up to 90 Days
  • Russian Federation – Exemption up to 90 Days
  • People’s Republic of China – Exemption up to 30 Days
  • Federal Republic of Brazil – Exemption up to 90 Days
  • Myanmar - Exemption up to 90 Days  
  • Vietnam - Exemption up to 90 Days
  • Cambodia - Exemption up to 30 Days
  • Mongolia - Exemption up to 90 Days
  • Jordan - Exemption up to 90 Days
  • State of Israel - Exemption up to 90 Days
  • Georgia - Exemption up to 90 Days
  • State of Qatar - Exemption up to 90 Days

do not need Entry Visa based on reciprocal visa waiver Agreement

Visas of all kinds including ‘Gratis’ issued at the Airport are Tourist Visas. Contact Department of Immigration for extending your visa or changing the category of your visa. Tourist Visa extension can be done from Immigration Office, Pokhara too. Non tourist visa extension can be done only at Department of Immigration (if eligible) for a period of maximum one year (except business visa).

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You are here: Home / Interview Waiver & Visa Renewal

Interview Waiver & Visa Renewal

On this page:

Eligibility Criteria

How to apply.

In an effort to improve customer service, the U.S. government allows certain nonimmigrant visa applicants to apply for visas without an interview under the Interview Waiver. This process is not for first-time applicants. It is only for certain applicants applying for visas and some restrictions also apply.

Please check the Website  RedBanner  for the latest information on Interview Waiver eligibility criteria.

If you are applying for a B, F, H-1, H-4, J, non-blanket L, M or O category visa, please first create a profile, proceed with your application, and print 2 copies of the interview-waiver confirmation letter to submit to one of the six document delivery centers if you meet the following qualifications as applicable.

INTERVIEW WAIVER ELIGIBILITY QUESTIONS:

Before you answer “YES” to the below statements, please ensure that your situation meets the criteria. The statements below help determine your eligibility to submit an application through the interview waiver process. They do not guarantee that a visa will be issued. After a review of your application, a consular officer will determine whether or not you are required to appear for an interview or if your visa can be issued without an interview. If you are found to be not eligible for a visa without an interview, your application will be refused under section 221(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act pending your appearance at a visa interview.

Renewal of B, F, H1B, H4, J, non-blanket L, M and O visa in the same category:

  • I am currently present in Nepal;
  • I am a Nepali citizen, or I have been a resident of Nepal for at least the previous 6 months;
  • I am renewing my visa;
  • I am applying for the same visa class;
  • My visa is still valid, or I am applying within 48 months of my previous visa's expiration date;
  • I was previously interviewed for a visa on or after January 1, 2008;
  • My last visa was “multiple” entry (it should read as “M”);
  • My last visa was issued for full term;
  • My most recent prior application in this category resulted in an issued visa;
  • My most recent visa has never been revoked, lost, or stolen;
  • My name, date of birth, nationality, and place of birth are the same on both applications (current and previous) or I can provide evidence of the reason for the change;
  • On my previous visit to the United States, I did not overstay my authorized time;
  • On my previous visa, I did not apply for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) while in the United States.

Interview Waiver Applications for previously issued F, H1, H4, J, non-blanket L, M and O visa; applying for new visa category:

  • I am a Nepali citizen, or my usual place of residence is Nepal;
  • I have been issued a previous U.S. visa in a visa category other than a B Visa;
  • My visa is still valid, or I am applying within 48 months of my previous visa's expiration date;
  • I have not been refused in any visa category during my last visa interview at the U.S. Embassy;
  • On my previous visit to the United States, I complied with all immigration laws and regulations;
  • I am applying for a visa in the J category, and box 4 of my DS-2019 states one of the following:  Secondary or university student, professor, research scholar, short-term scholar, or specialist. If box 4 states any other category, including Alien Physician, then you are  not  eligible to submit an interview waiver application.

Interview Waiver Based on Age:

Applicants for a B1/B2 visa may also apply for a visa without requiring an interview if they meet the below criteria:

  • I am applying after my 80th birthday; or
  • I am applying before my 14th birthday; and
  • Both of my parents hold valid B1/B2 visas, or, One or both of my parents are applying for their visa renewal; and I am applying together for the same visa class;

My age was below 14 when the last visa was issued. I am applying for visa now and I am still under 14 years of age

If your answer is “ YES ” to the above questions, you may be eligible to apply for the interview waiver. Please drop off your passport along with the listed documents as outlined below at your pre-selected document delivery center. You do not need to schedule an appointment to come to the U.S. Embassy unless a consular officer asks you to do so.

  • Interview waiver confirmation letter.
  • Current passport that has a validity of at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S. (all categories)
  • Passport containing most recently issued U.S. visa
  • The DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application confirmation sheet (all categories)
  • Your visa application (MRV) fee payment receipt; Cash Deposit Receipt if paid in cash at NIMB Bank Branch, or the payment transaction detail downloaded from connectIPS after EFT payment
  • One photograph taken within the last six months (conforming to the guidelines on  this webpage ). In the vast majority of cases, YOU MAY NOT SUBMIT THE SAME PHOTOGRAPH THAT APPEARED ON YOUR LAST VISA. Failure to submit a valid photograph will delay the processing of your case.
  • Copy of I-20 and original transcript (F1/F2, M1/M2)
  • Original DS-2019 (J1/J2)
  • Copy of valid visa in the same visa class for both parents if the applicant is a child under 14 years of age applying for a B category visa.
  • If your name, date of birth, nationality, or place of birth has changed since your prior application, provide evidence of the reason for the change.
  • Supporting documentation (photo copy) required for your  visa type

Additional documents for the Petition based  (H and L) applicants:

  • Copy of petition papers (I-129, I-797 notice of approval)
  • Employment contract
  • For H-1B applicants, submit Labor Condition Application (LCA)
  • For H-4 applicants, proof of relationship (marriage certificate, wedding photos, etc.).

Note:  Children under 14 years of age must submit a photocopy of both parents’ passport biographic information page, both parents’ 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 for B visa categories.

Please note  that eligibility for interview waiver does not guarantee a visa issuance nor does it guarantee that the interview will be waived. Although your interview may be waived, you may still be required to appear for fingerprint scanning. Any necessary notification will be made via the email address listed in your DS-160 online application.

Determine your visa type by reading  Common Nonimmigrant Visas . Each visa type explains the qualifications and application items. Choose the visa type that applies to your situation.

Be sure to also review the  Visa Waiver Program . If your country participates in the Visa Waiver Program, you do not need to apply for a visa if you are traveling for business or pleasure and will only be staying in the Unites States for 90 days or less.

The next step is to complete the  DS-160 Form . Be sure to read the  Guidelines for Completing the DS-160 Form  carefully. All information must be correct and accurate. Once the form is submitted, you cannot make any changes. If you need assistance, please consult an immigration lawyer or translator. The call center cannot help you complete your DS-160. You will need your DS-160 number to book your appointment.

Once you have determined the correct visa type and completed the DS-160, you must pay the visa fee. The  visa fee page  lists the visa types and correlating visa fee in U.S. dollars and local currency.

To pay your visa fee, read the  Bank and Payment Options  page. This page explains how to make your visa fee payment. You will create a profile and must keep your receipt number to book your visa appointment.

Now you will need to  log in  to your profile with the same credentials you used to pay your visa fee. Once you are in the system, you will see your dashboard.

Click on Schedule Appointment on the left-hand side menu.

This will start the process for scheduling your appointment. You will need:

  • Your current passport.
  • The receipt number from your Visa Fee receipt. Click  here  if you need help finding this number.
  • The ten (10) digit barcode number from your DS-160 confirmation page.

As you go through the process you will be able to select your visa type, enter personal data, add dependents, select your document delivery location, confirm visa payment, and schedule your appointment.

Deliver your interview-waiver visa application to a  Team CGI Document Drop-Off Center . Bring the second copy of your document checklist with you. A Team CGI employee will review your document checklist before accepting your application for delivery to the U.S. Embassy.

Note: Failure to submit the above documents as per the described criteria will delay the processing of your case.

If any additional information is needed to complete the processing of your case, you will be informed by email. If your application is approved, your passport and visa will be delivered for pickup to your selected Document Collection center you specified when you scheduled your interview. Details on passport delivery are available on  this webpage .

When your passport is available at the selected location you will receive an email that your passport is “Ready for Pick Up”. 

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U.S. Embassy Kathmandu, Nepal - KDU

Please follow the steps below before your immigrant visa interview at the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Step 1: Create a profile and upload all relevant documents in CEAC

All immigrant and diversity visa applicants must create a profile at http://www.ustraveldocs.com/np after receiving their appointment letter. This will allow applicants to process case inquiries, submit documents, and obtain updates about visa collection.

Step 2: Complete your pre-interview checklist

It is important that you bring all required original documents to your interview. We’ve created a checklist that will tell you what to bring. Please print the checklist below and bring it to your interview along with the listed documents.

Pre-Interview Checklist >>

Step 3: Review interview guidelines

Read our interview guidelines to learn about any special actions that you need to take before  your visa interview.

Interview Guidelines >>

Step 4: Get a Medical Exam in Nepal

As soon as you receive your interview date, you must schedule a medical exam in Nepal. Click the “Medical Exam Instructions” link below for a list of designated doctors’ offices. Please schedule and attend a medical exam with one of these doctors before your interview.

Medical Exam Instructions >>

Medical Exam Instructions

All immigrant visa applicants, regardless of age, require a medical examination prior to the issuance of a visa.  Only a physician accredited by the U.S. Embassy can perform this exam   It is your responsibility to schedule a medical exam with one of the doctors listed below  before  your visa interview at the U.S. Embassy. Medical examination results from other physicians will not be accepted.

Approved physicians:

International Organization for Migration (IOM) IOM Migration Health Assessment Center (MHAC) Lazimpat Sadak, Panipokhari (Opposite to the Embassy of Japan) Ward-3, Kathmandu, PO Box: 25503, ZIP Code: 44600, Nepal Open Monday - Friday 08:00 – 17:00, except national holidays. Tel: (+977) 01 5970001

Items to bring to your medical examination

Bring the following items to your medical exam:

  • Your visa interview letter,
  • Your passport,
  • Three (3) recently taken passport-sized color photographs,
  • A copy of your immunization records,
  • Previous chest x-rays if available, and
  • Medical records for any chronic conditions you have or major medical/surgical treatment you had in the past.
  • DS-260 confirmation page

The fee for children below 2 years is USD 65, for children between 2-14 is USD 130, for children between 15-17 is USD 88, for age groups between 18-24 is USD 123, for age groups between 25-44 is USD 93 and 45 years of age and older is USD 88. Any medical examination fees, including x-ray and blood test fees, must be paid directly to the examining physician in either U.S. dollars or Nepali rupees at the IOM exchange rate that month.

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During the medical exam

The medical examination will include a medical history review, physical examination, and chest X-ray and blood tests (for applicants 15 years of age or older). The United States also requires tuberculosis (TB) testing for all applicants two years of age and older. Please be prepared to discuss your medical history, medications you are taking, and current treatments you are undergoing. More information on general medical requirements for U.S. immigrants is available  www.cdc.gov .

Children younger than 2 need a blood test called IGRA for TB infection. IGRA tests are done on all working day from 8:30 am to 9:30 a.m. Results will be available within 48 hours.

U.S. immigration law requires immigrant visa applicants to obtain certain vaccinations prior to the issuance of a visa. Current immigrant vaccination requirements are available  vaccination requirements . You can also read Frequently Asked Questions about our medical examination requirements Travel.State.Gov .

After the medical exam

When your examination is complete, applicants should expect to receive the reports on the next working day from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. The doctor will send the abnormal reports directly to the Embassy.  IF GIVEN AN ENVELOPE TO CARRY TO YOUR INTERVIEW, DO NOT OPEN THIS ENVELOPE Instead, bring it to your visa interview. You DO NOT need to bring the x-rays to your visa interview unless you suffer from tuberculosis (TB). However, you must keep the x-ray images and take them to the United States as part of your permanent health record. The medical report must be less than six (6) months old when you enter the United States as an immigrant.

Pre-Interview Checklist

Please use the list below to determine the items that every applicant must bring to the immigrant visa interview. Any documents that are not in English or Nepali must be accompanied by a certified English Translation.

A copy of your NVC interview letter (does not apply to Diversity Visa, fiancé(e), adoptive, or asylee/refugee applicants).

Unexpired passport valid for six (6) months beyond your intended date of entry to the United States and  a photocopy of the biographic page (where your name and photo are located).

Two (2) color passport-size photographs of each person applying for a visa (5 cm x 5 cm, or 2 inch x 2 inch).  Please review our online photo requirements . If your photo does not meet these requirements, your appointment may be rescheduled and therefore delayed.

Confirmation page from the Form DS-260 Application for an Immigrant Visa submitted online at ceac.state.gov/iv . Please ensure you have completed Form DS-260.  The form should be complete and accurate.  If you have to make a correction or update information after submission, please send an email to the Consular inbox at [email protected] to re-open your form before the appointment date.

Your original  birth certificate.

  • For paper-based cases:  Please bring the original and a photocopy.
  • If you have already uploaded it in CEAC, bring the original document that was uploaded.
  • If you have not uploaded it in CEAC, you must upload it in  CEAC before the interview and bring the original to the interview. ( see Step 1 )

Medical examination results in a sealed envelope (if the physician gives you these results) .

Original or certified copies of birth certificates for all children of the principal applicant ( even if he or she is not accompanying) .

If you need to submit an updated document, email the consular section at [email protected] to enable you to submit it before the appointment date.

If the document was issued in a local language  (not Nepali), you must upload the original translated document in CEAC and submit the original at the interview.

Applicants who fall into any category listed in italics below should bring these additional documents:

For family based applications:

  • The appropriate  Form I-864 Affidavit of Support  for  each  financial sponsor along with a photocopy of the sponsor’s IRS transcript or most recent U.S. federal income tax return, and any relevant W-2s. Note : Visa applicants frequently experience immigrant visa processing delays because their petitioner or joint sponsor has completed the Form I-864 Affidavit of Support incorrectly or the income reported does not meet the poverty guideline requirements.  An applicant who is likely to become primarily dependent on the U.S. government is inadmissible under section 221(a)(4) of the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act.
  • If the petitioner cannot meet the poverty guideline requirement, a joint sponsor can complete Form I-864 and submit the latest tax returns.
  • If the joint sponsor wishes to include their spouse's income in addition to his/her own income, the joint sponsor and spouse need to fill out Form I-864A.  I-864A forms can be found at https://www.uscis.gov/i-864a
  • At the interview, a Consular officer should be convinced there is a genuine relationship between the applicant and a joint sponsor.  The joint sponsor may submit a personal letter explaining their relationship with the applicant and how they intend to support the applicant after they arrive in the United States. 
  • Proof of the U.S. petitioner’s status and domicile in the United States (photocopy of both sides of the Lawful Permanent Resident card I-551, Certificate of Naturalization, or U.S. passport).
  • Evidence of the relationship between the petitioner and visa applicant (such as photographs, letters, or emails).
  • For minors under 16, the applicant must be accompanied by a local guardian; the guardian must bring photo identification to be presented at the visa interview.  

If you are married : Your  original  marriage certificate and an English translation if the document was ussued in a local language other than Nepali.

For paper-based cases: Your original marriage certificate and a photocopy. 

For electronic cases: Your original marriage certificate. No photocopy is required.

  • If you did not uploaded it in CEAC, you must upload it in CEAC before the interview and bring the original to the interview.
  • If you need to submit an updated document, email the consular section at [email protected] to enable you to submit it before the appointment date.  

If you were previously married:   Your original divorce or spouse’s death certificate and an English translation if the document was issued in a local language other than Nepali

For paper-based cases: Your original divorce or spouse's death certificate and a photocopy. 

For electronic cases: Your original divorce or spouse's death certificate. No photocopy is required.

  • If you have not uploaded it in CEAC, you must upload it in CEAC before the interview and bring the original to the interview.

If you are older than 16 years of age:  The original police certificate from: (1) your country of current residence, (2) your country of nationality if residence exceeds six months, and (3) any countries where you have resided for more than a year since the age of 16.  If you have ever been arrested, you must also submit a police certificate from the country where the arrest took place. Police certificates expire after one year, unless you have not returned to the country since the police certificate was issued.  If all three of the following statements are true, you must bring a new police certificate to the interview:

  • You are older than 16 years;
  • You obtained a police certificate; and submitted it to the NVC more than one year ago; and

For paper-based cases: Your original police certificate and a photocopy. If the document was issued in a local language other than Nepali, you must get it translated.

For electronic cases: Your original police certificate. No photocopy is required.

For employment-based visa applications:  Letter from your U.S. employer dated less than one month ago.  

If you have ever been convicted of a crime:  Court and criminal records,    English translation if the documents were issued in a local language other than Nepali, and a photocopy.  

If you have served in any country’s military:  Military records, English translation if the documents were issued in a local language other than Nepali,  and  a photocopy.  

If you are adopted:   Adoption papers or custody documents, English translation if the documents were issued in a local language other than Nepali,  and  a photocopy.|

If you are the petitioner’s stepchild: The original marriage certificate of the petitioner and your biological parent, English translation if the documents were issued in a local language other than Nepali, and a photocopy along with divorce records for any previous marriages of either parent.

Interview Guidelines

Sending documents to the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu

For paper-based cases:

If you need to send us any documents, please DO NOT mail them to us. Instead, you must submit them in person at a Collection Centre and include a pre-printed cover sheet. You can find instructions online at ustraveldocs.com/np/np-niv-documentsubmissioninfo.asp .  

For electronic cases:

If you need to submit any documents, please DO NOT mail them to the Embassy. The documents must be uploaded in the appropriate document category at https://ceac.state.gov/IV/Login.aspx . For instructions on how to upload documents please go to https://travel.state.gov/content/dam/visas/PDF-other/Uploading%20to%20CEAC-instrucions.pdf

Submit the original documents and translations that you uploaded to the bank.

Rescheduling or cancelling your interview

If you are unable to attend your appointment, please email [email protected] .  There may be a significant wait before the next available appointment, so please attempt to attend the date already assigned. For some family-based and employment preference visa categories, a visa became available within the month you were scheduled for an appointment by NVC. Diversity Visa (DV) applicants should be aware that visas are numerically limited and must be issued by September 30 of the program year. DV applicants should come for their interview as scheduled; if you do not come on the scheduled day or re-schedule your appointment, you might not receive a visa number even if qualified.

There is no guarantee that a visa will still be available on the date of your rescheduled interview. Please carefully consult the Visa Bulletin before you decide to reschedule your interview.

Please note:   Rescheduling is only possible on a date after  your assigned appointment.

Security screening procedures

All visitors to the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu must follow certain security procedures. Any visitor who declines to be screened by U.S. Embassy security personnel will be unable to enter the embassy. To avoid delaying your entry and that of those in line behind you, please bring only what is required for your interview. You can read a detailed list of prohibited items online at ustraveldocs.com/np-np-niv-securityinfo.asp .

Accompanying Persons

Attorneys are not  permitted to accopany clients into the waiting room or to their interview. Only the following persons may accompany a visa applicant ot their interview:

  • Interpreter:  Applicants may bring ONE interpreter if they do not speak English or Nepali well enough to participate in an interview.
  • Special Needs Visitors:  Applicants may bring ONE person to help if they are elderly, disabled, or a minor child.

Immigrant visa fees

If you have not paid all required fees to the National Visa Center, please be prepared to pay these fees on the day of your interview. All fees may be paid in cash in either U.S. dollars or the Nepali rupee equivalent. Please note that if you are found ineligible to receive a visa, the application fee cannot be refunded . A complete list of fees can be found  travel.state.gov . DV fees are paid at the consular cashier on the appointment day.

Do not make travel plans outside of Nepal

If your visa is approved, we will keep your passport at the embassy while we prepare your immigration packet and print a visa for your passport. We will return your passport to you later via the Nepal Investment Bank Ltd. The consular officer will give you information about the return of your passport and documents during your interview. If you have to travel within Nepal while your passport is still with us, please make sure you have a valid picture ID other than your passport.

After Your Visa Interview

A consular officer can make a decision on a visa application only after reviewing the formal application and interviewing the applicant. There is no guarantee that you will receive a visa. Do not sell your house, car or property, resign from your job or make non-refundable flight or other travel arrangements until you have received your immigrant visa. 

If more information is needed

Sometimes a consular officer is unable to make a decision on a visa application because he/she needs to review additional documents or the case requires further administrative processing. If additional documents are requested, the consular officer will give you a refusal letter that asks you to submit additional documents. The letter will include instructions on how to send those documents to the embassy.

Administrative processing takes additional time after the interview. Most administrative processing is resolved within 60 days. However, the timing varies based on the circumstances of each case. Before inquiring about the status of administrative processing, please wait at least 60 days after your interview. 

What happens after visa approval

For paper-based cases: Passport, Visa, and Sealed Immigrant Packet – We will place your immigrant visa on a page in your passport. Please review your visa to make sure there are no spelling errors. We may also give you a sealed envelope containing documents that you must give to U.S. immigration authorities when you arrive in the United States for the first time.  Do not open this envelope. You must carry it with you; do not put it in your checked luggage.  If you receive X-rays during your medical examination, take them with you to the United States as part of your permanent health record.

Your visa should have the following annotation on it: “IV Docs in CCD.”  If your visa has this annotation on it, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers will be able to view your paperwork electronically upon arrival at the port of entry in the United States.  You only need your passport and valid visa; no paper visa packet is required.

USCIS Immigrant Fee – All individuals who are issued immigrant visas overseas must pay an Immigrant Fee to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) prior to traveling to the United States. This fee is for processing your residency status and printing your Permanent Resident Card. The only people exempt from paying this fee are:  children entering the United States under the Hague Process, returning residents, and people traveling on a a fiancé(e) (K) visa.  

When You Should Travel – You must enter the United States before the expiration date on your visa, which is usually six months from the date of printing. Your visa cannot be extended and all fees are nonrefundable. The principal applicant must enter before or at the same time as other family members with visas. Unless they are eligible for benefits under the Child Status Protection Act, children who are issued a visa before turning 21 years of age must enter the United States before their 21 st birthday to avoid losing their immigrant status.

Getting a Green Card – Your Form I-551 Permanent Resident Card, also known as a green card, will be automatically mailed to the address in the United States that you write in your visa application form. This is a very important document that proves you have permission to reside in the United States. If you plan to travel outside the U.S. before your green card arrives : Please consult USCIS’s and CBP’s websites for rules about what documents you need to re-enter the country. We also recommend you check with the airline to ensure you are in compliance with their rules. Once your card is issued, you should not stay outside of the United States for more than one year. If you do, you will lose your status as a Lawful Permanent Resident.

Children’s Issues – In the United States, children are required to have certain vaccinations before they can enroll in school. We recommend that you bring your child’s complete vaccination records with you to the United States. If your child is adopted, you have full custody as a result of a divorce, or you share custody with another parent, you should bring a copy of all applicable adoption or custody papers from the authoritative court in your home country. You will need these papers (translated into English) for issues such as school enrollment, medical care, and eventual citizenship.

Information for New Immigrants – Please visit the USCIS web page for helpful information on moving to the United States. You can read their publication at “ www.uscis.gov/newimmigrants ” .

Diversity Visa Applicants - Additional Information

If you are interviewing for a Diversity Visa (DV), all of the above instructions apply to you. Please schedule and attend a medical examination prior to your visa interview and gather the required documents.

Below are additional instructions that apply only to DV applicants. 

Bring to your interview

In addition to the documents listed on the Pre-Interview Checklist in this package, DV applicants should also bring the following items to your visa interview:

  • Appointment information printed from the “Entrant Status Check” on the E-DV website
  • Documents showing that you have either a qualifying high school education OR have two (2) years of qualifying work experience in the last five (5) years immediately prior to application (for the principal applicant only; more information is available at  travel.state.gov ).
  • Payment in cash of the $330 Diversity Visa Application Fee for each  applicant.

Review your DV Program entry

Prior to your visa interview, we recommend that you review the data on your initial E-DV entry. On your initial E-DV application, you must have correctly entered your marital status. If you are legally married you must have listed your spouse, even if you are currently separated from him/her (unless your spouse is a U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident).

Additionally, you must have listed ALL of your living children who are unmarried and under 21 years old. This includes your natural children, your step-children (even if you are no longer legally married to the child’s parent and even if the child does not currently reside with you and/or will not immigrate with you), and children you have legally adopted.

Failure to have listed an existing spouse or children at the time of your entry in the Diversity Visa lottery will result in the denial of your visa and visas for your family.  Any fees paid to the U.S. government in support of your visa application(s) are nonrefundable. Failure to include a child who had already been born or a spouse to whom you were married when you entered the diversity visa program is grounds for disqualification. You can review the eligibility requirements travel.state.gov .

Last Updated: 1/22/2024

Contact Information

Maharajgunj Kathmandu, Nepal

Other Links

Diversity Visa Instructions After Your Interview Frequently Asked Questions Nepal Document Finder

Interview Preparation Video

Interview Preparation Video

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Nepal's Lamichhane will miss T20 World Cup 2024

N epal legspinner Sandeep Lamichhane will miss the T20 World Cup 2024 after his visa application to the USA was rejected for a second time.

His initial application was turned down last week , following which the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) and the Nepal government intervened on his behalf, but despite their efforts he was turned down again.

"Despite taking necessary initiatives, along with the diplomatic note, from the government of Nepal, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Youth and Sports, National Sports Council, CAN and International Cricket Council (ICC) for cricketer Sandeep Lamichhane's visit to participate in the 2024 ICC Men's T20 World Cup in the United States and West Indies, the US Embassy has expressed its inability to give travel permission (visa) to national player Lamichhane to play the World Cup," CAN said in a statement.

The board said it remains committed though to helping Lamichhane secure a visa for future travel to the US.

"The US Embassy in Kathmandu and other US consular posts around the world have made a concerted effort to ensure that members of national cricket teams who qualify for the appropriate visa class are able to travel in time to compete in the World Cup," a spokesperson of the US Embassy in Kathmandu said last week, according to Kathmandu Post. "We cannot comment on individual visa cases as visa records are confidential under US law."

Lamichhane, one of Nepal's most prominent cricketers, was arrested in October 2022 after being accused of the rape of an 18-year-old woman. He was immediately suspended by CAN. After a trial in January 2024, he was found guilty only to be acquitted on appeal by the Patan High Court in May, because of "a lack of evidence". CAN allowed him to resume playing cricket with immediate effect.

The T20 World Cup this year will be co-hosted by the USA and the West Indies. Nepal play their first game in a Group D clash against Netherlands on June 7 in Dallas, Texas. Their second game is against Sri Lanka in Lauderhill in Florida on June 11. Then they move to the Caribbean to play two games against South Africa and Sri Lanka.

Nepal's Lamichhane will miss T20 World Cup 2024

IMAGES

  1. Nepal visa for us citizens

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  2. How To Get Tourist Visa For Nepal From USA

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  3. Ultimate Guide on How to Get a Nepal Visa for US Citizens

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  4. How to Apply for Visa to the United States from Nepal?

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  5. Visit Visa To Usa From Nepal

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  6. Ultimate Guide on How to Get a Nepal Visa for US Citizens

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VIDEO

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COMMENTS

  1. Apply for a U.S. Visa

    Welcome to the U.S. Visa Information Service for Nepal. On this website you can find information about U.S. immigrant and nonimmigrant visas and the requirements to apply for each. You can also learn how to pay the required visa application fee, and book an interview appointment at the U.S. Embassy Kathmandu, Nepal.

  2. Visas

    When planning travel abroad a U.S. citizen may need a visa issued by the embassy or consulate of the country they wish to visit. What Type of Visa Do You Need? For short-term visits to the United States (for tourism, business, education, and more), you can go directly to the online application (form DS-160). For immigrant visas, which are ...

  3. Apply for a U.S. Visa

    If you apply for a business/tourist visa, you must submit only the following: A Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) Form. Visit the DS-160 web page for more information about the DS-160. 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 ...

  4. अमेरिकी भिसा सेवा

    A citizen of a foreign country who seeks to travel to the U.S. generally must first obtain a U.S. visa, which is placed in the traveler's passport.

  5. Apply for a U.S. Visa

    Apply for a Visa On this page: Overview; How to Apply; Overview. Please confirm whether or not you need to apply for a visa. You may not need to apply for a new U.S. visa if you already hold a valid U.S. visa or are a national of a Visa Waiver Program participating country.. If you do need to apply for a nonimmigrant visa, please follow the steps below.

  6. Apply for a U.S. Visa

    Supporting Documents. To schedule a nonimmigrant visa appointment, you must have the following information and documents available: 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).

  7. Apply for a U.S. Visa

    Complete and submit your DS-160 after reviewing the nonimmigrant visa application process. You must submit your DS-160 application online prior to making an appointment for an interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. The Embassy or Consulate you select at the beginning of the Form DS-160 must be the same Embassy or Consulate where you ...

  8. Apply for a U.S. Visa

    U.S. Embassy Kathmandu, Nepal. Maharajgunj. Kathmandu, Nepal. Tel: Main Switchboard: +977 1 423 4000; Consular inquiries: +977 1 423 4500; ... Local Visa Programs; Travel Coordinator; Group Appointments; Diplomatic and Government Officials; Applicants under 14 years of age or age 80 and over; Locations;

  9. Apply for a U.S. Visa

    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 ...

  10. Information for Visa Applicants Regarding CoVid-19

    June 23, 2021. Information for visa applicants regarding COVID-19: We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to reopen our full visa operations and facilitate travel between the United States and Nepal in a manner that is safe for both our applicants and our staff. Please continue to monitor our website for further updates.

  11. How to apply for or renew a U.S. tourist visa

    If it does, you can get a waiver and will not need a visa. If you do not see your country listed, you will need a visitor visa. Visitor (tourist) visas and other travel documents for entering the U.S. The visitor visa is a type of nonimmigrant visa for people who wish to temporarily enter the U.S. There are two categories: B-1 for business travel

  12. Tourist Visa 2074-10-18

    Tourist Visa 'On Arrival' is the only entry visa to Nepal. If you are visiting Nepal for the purposes other than Tourism (sightseeing, tour, travel, mountaineering, trekking, visiting friends and families), you should still get ' Tourist Visa' to get into the country.

  13. Apply for a U.S. Visa

    Overview. All applicants are processed as efficiently as possible and the U.S. Embassy or Consulate strives to keep the wait time for appointments as short as possible. That said, the earlier you book your appointment, the more likely you are to be able to get the interview date and time you want.

  14. Homepage

    The mission of the U.S. Embassy is to advance the interests of the United States, and to serve and protect U.S. citizens in Nepal.

  15. Apply for a U.S. Visa

    You will need your DS-160 number to book your appointment. Step 3. Once you have determined the correct visa type and completed the DS-160, you must pay the visa fee. The visa fee page lists the visa types and correlating visa fee in U.S. dollars and local currency.

  16. Visitor Visa

    Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for a temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Visitor visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons who want to enter the United States temporarily for business (visa category B-1), for tourism (visa category B-2), or for a combination of both ...

  17. पर्यटक भिषा

    Immigration Offices, under Department of Immigration have been facilitating tourists flying to Nepal by providing Visa on Arrival. 'On Arrival' visa procedure is very quick and simple. You can expect some queues during peak Tourist season. If you wish to skip those queues, you can also consider getting...

  18. Nepal International Travel Information

    Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories.

  19. U.S. Embassy Kathmandu, Nepal

    Approved physicians: International Organization for Migration (IOM) IOM Migration Health Assessment Center (MHAC) Lazimpat Sadak, Panipokhari (Opposite to the Embassy of Japan) Ward-3, Kathmandu, PO Box: 25503, ZIP Code: 44600, Nepal. Open Monday - Friday 08:00 - 17:00, except national holidays. Tel: (+977) 01 5970001.

  20. Common Visa Facts and Myths

    Fact: All applicants who are refused a student visa in Nepal are provided with a yellow sheet that explains the U.S. legal requirements for an F1 visa. The reason(s) for an applicant's refusal will be circled by the Consular Officer on this sheet. ... Myth: I can work or sell products in the United States if I visit on a tourist B1/B2 visa ...

  21. Advice for Online Visa Applicants

    detailed address in Nepal. You need to provide telephone numbers—land-line and mobile. You need to provide your email address too. The submitted application will remain in the system for 15 days. After 15 days, the application will be deleted automatically from the system. Once the application is successfully submitted, a receipt will be sent ...

  22. Do you need a visa to travel to Nepal?

    Here's the good news - for most travelers, the entry requirements for Nepal are fairly simple and pain-free. Indian citizens do not need a tourist visa to visit the country, and most other tourists can get a 15-, 30- or 90-day visa on arrival. This includes visitors from the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea ...

  23. Nepal Visa

    When you apply for a Nepal Tourist Visa, you need the following documents: The Nepal Tourist Visa Application Form ( completed online and printed) Your original passport, which is valid for at least another six months and has at least two blank visa pages. Photocopies of the personal information page of your passport.

  24. Nepal's Lamichhane denied US visa, will miss T20 World Cup 2024

    30-May-2024. Sandeep Lamichhane has not played for Nepal since November 2023 • AFP/Getty Images. Nepal legspinner Sandeep Lamichhane will miss the T20 World Cup 2024 after his visa application ...

  25. Stories

    Discover amazing travel experiences with Lonely Planet's insider tips, inspirational traveler stories and expert guidance from around the world. ... 11 tips for exploring Nepal on a budget . Jun 6, 2024 • 6 min read. Nepal is not expensive, and there's plenty of value to be had for visitors that follow these budget tips, along with a ...

  26. Nepal's Lamichhane will miss T20 World Cup 2024

    The board said it remains committed though to helping Lamichhane secure a visa for future travel to the US. "The US Embassy in Kathmandu and other US consular posts around the world have made a ...