Things You'll Need:
- Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form DS-156
- Supplemental Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form DS-157 (if applicable)
- Passport
- Passport photo
- Visa fees
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Step 1
Visit any one of the U.S. Embassies or Consulates throughout China, located in Beijing, Chengdu, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenyang and Hong Kong (see Resources). A visa must be applied for in person.
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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.
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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 and 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 that is good for at least six months beyond the period of your intended stay in the Unites States. Also have a 2x2-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 pay the appropriate visa fees. These will vary depending the type of visa you've applied for, but payment can be made by cash, money order or credit card.
