2006 press releases

U.S. Embassy Announces Change in Visa Application Procedure

All Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants Must Use Electronic Forms

October 13, 2006

The U.S. Embassy informs all applicants that beginning Monday, October 30, nonimmigrant visa applications (Form DS-156) must be completed electronically. Hand written or typed applications will no longer be accepted. This applies to all nonimmigrant visa applicants including diplomats and government officials.

Applicants are welcome to use public access locations, including internet cafes, schools and libraries to complete the visa application. Internet computers are not available at the embassy. Application forms are free and can be obtained through the State Department website http://www.travel.state.gov or by entering the URL http://www.travel.state.gov/visa/frvi/forms/forms_1342.html. On that webpage are links to Forms DS-156 and DS-157. The DS-156 consists of two pages and a barcode page. All pages must be printed and brought to the visa interview. Forms must be completed accurately or delays in processing will occur.

Applicants will continue to pay the $100 application fee at any Crédit Libanais Bank branch and receive an appointment. Travelers with emergent situations may contact BeirutNIV@state.gov . For an expedited appointment, an electronic application will still be required.

For information and inquiries regarding non-immigrant visas, the public is encouraged to use the following:

• Visit the U.S. Embassy website visa page. The English website can be found at http://lebanon.usembassy.gov . The Arabic website can be found at http://arabic.lebanon.usembassy.gov.
• Email the Nonimmigrant Visa Unit at BeirutNIV@state.com. Requests for changes to visa appointments can be made at this email address, as well as any other inquiries.
• Fax queries and requests to change nonimmigrant visa appointments to 04-544-037.

Public telephone inquiries about nonimmigrant visas are accepted only on Thursdays from 2-4 p.m.