Changes in applying for a U.S. Non-Immigrant VISA

The U.S. Embassy is changing its non-immigrant visa application system effective April 1, 2007. The change will enable applicants outside of Kathmandu to submit their applications from five Nabil Bank branches across Nepal, thus eliminating the need to travel to the capital. Applicants in Kathmandu, also using the new system, will continue to apply from the Nabil Bank, Maharajgunj. Beginning April 1, all applicants for non-immigrant visas (tourists, students, etc.) will be required to submit Electronic Visa Application Forms (EVAF) when applying for an interview appointment through Nabil Bank. Typed or handwritten applications will no longer be accepted. ………………………
The Electronic Visa Application enables the Embassy to offer a more convenient option for applicants. Instead of traveling to Kathmandu early, as has been the case, applicants residing outside Kathmandu can now submit their application for a visa appointment at one of the five Nabil Bank branches throughout Nepal – in Biratnagar, Birgunj, Butwal, Pokhara, and Nepalgunj.………………….
Based on increasing numbers of student visa applicants over the past year, the Embassy expects a significant increase in applications in the summer of 2007. The waiting time for all visa appointments will likely increase. Students should apply as early as possible, up to 120 days ahead of the reporting date listed on the I-20. Students must have an original I-20 to apply for a visa (fax or scanned copies will not be accepted). [View Full Article]