Things You'll Need:
- Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form DS-156
- Supplemental Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form DS-157 (if applicable)
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Step 1
Locate the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service center nearest you. This information can be found in the government section of a phonebook. If you do not live in the United States, contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in your jurisdiction (see resources).
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Step 2
Schedule a required interview with the consular to begin the visa application process. Applicants under the age of 13 and over the age of 80 generally do not require an interview.
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Step 3
Submit to an ink-free digital fingerprint scan during your interview. It is a quick process administered by a consular officer.
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Step 4
Complete the Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form DS-156. You can fill out the application at your interview or download the e-Form ahead of time (see resources). Also complete and submit a Supplemental Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form DS-157 if you are a male applicant between the ages of 16-45. Individual circumstances might also require you to provide other documentation supporting the purpose of your trip.
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Step 5
Provide a valid passport with a remaining validity of at least six months beyond the period of your intended stay in the United States. Also included should be a 2-by-2-inch passport photograph that meets the nonimmigrant photograph requirements (see resources).
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Step 6
Return your complete application and the required travel documents to the embassy or consulate and inquire about the appropriate visa fees. These may vary, depending on the currency in your country and the type of visa you are processing.
