How to Apply for a Visa From Jamaica to America

Jamaican citizens traveling to America for tourism must apply for a visa before traveling to the States. Because the visa application process can take several weeks, the U.S. State Department recommends that visitors apply at least a month in advance.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Passport valid for 6 months after re-entry to Jamaica
• 2-by-2 inch headshot photo
• Documents detailing length of intended stay in the U.S. and trip finances
• $131 (as of 2009)

1. Apply for a B-2 type visa, if you're a Jamaican resident wanting to travel to the United States as a tourist. First make an appointment for an interview at the U.S. Embassy in Kingston by calling a toll-free number listed on the consulate website (Kingston.usembassy.gov). The expected wait time for an interview at the embassy is 17 days.

2. Gather the necessary paperwork for your appointment. To the interview, you should bring a passport that is valid for 6 months after your return to Jamaica and a 2-by-2 inch full-front headshot with no head coverings or accessories (such as sunglasses). This photo will need to be less than 6 months old. You'll also need documentation that shows your intended length of stay in the United States and proof that you'll have the finances necessary to cover your travels. (These documents can be almost anything, provided they come from a professional source.)

3. Go to your appointment for an interview with consular officials and to fill out the form DS-156. A digital fingerprint will also usually be taken. In addition, officials may ask some applicants to fill out a second form (DS-157) that lists extra details about travel plans. All applicants will also be asked to pay a processing fee of about $131 (as of 2009).

4. Wait for the visa after your interview, which will usually take about 4 days to be processed. Be aware that in some cases this can take up to 60 days. Once your visa is received, you will be free to travel to the United States.