Wait Times
It normally takes three working days to process and return visas to applicants after their interview with a consular officer. However, many additional factors, such as the need for special clearances, incomplete applications, and fraud investigations may influence the processing of individual visa cases. The timing will vary based on the individual circumstances of each case.
An expedited visa interview appointment may be requested for the following reasons:
- Emergency medical treatment, as well as any persons desiring to travel in support (such as a parent caring for a child)
- Students/Exchange Visitors
- Emergent business travel
- Family emergency, such as death
- Other emergencies will be considered on a case by case basis
Please note: The Consular Section will make the final determination if an expedited visa appointment is justified. An expedited appointment may only be requested after the fee has been paid at the Credit Libanais Bank. Please send your request either by email or by fax, including the bank receipt number, reason for the expedited appointment, and a contact telephone number.
The expedited appointment request must be sent to:
- for students/exchange visitors: email address: BeirutStudExch@state.gov, or by fax to 961-4-544037
- for urgent business travel: email address: BeirutBiz@state.gov, or by fax to 961-4-544037
- all other expedited appointment requests: email address: BeirutNIV@state.gov, or by fax to 961-4-544037
Replies will be sent within 3 working days.