Non-Immigrant Visas

Applying for a Visa – Instructions and Procedures

 

Step 1.

Read the information regarding Visa Information and Types to determine which type of U.S. Visa you need and its specific requirements.  This is very important, because different visa types have additional or different requirements.

Step 2.

Complete the Visa Application Form (EVAF DS-156). Click here for Instructions, then Click here, to begin to complete the Application Form. Once you have completed the form, press the Continue button, print out all 3 pages, including the bar code, review, and sign.  Bring the form with you to your interview.

Step 3.

Complete all Supplemental Application Forms you will require, as listed below:

• All males between ages 16 and 45 must complete the DS-157 Form.

• All applicants for Student and Exchange Visitors Visas (F, M, J, etc.) must complete a Contact Information and Work History Questionnaire Form DS-158.

Be sure to print the completed forms and so you can bring them to your interview.

Step 4.

Schedule an appointment for a visa interview.  Click here for instructions

Step 5. 

Pay the Visa Application (“MRV”) Fee.  Click here for information on how to pay this fee.

Step 6.

Assemble the Application Packet.  Click here for the checklist of the documents that are required.  Please DO NOT mail your application and documents to the embassy.  Bring them with you on the day of your interview appointment.

Step 7.

Arrive at your scheduled interview time.  Please bring all the documents in your Application Packet (see Step 5 above) as well as photo ID. 

 

DURING AND AFTER THE VISA INTERVIEW

At the beginning of each interview, several of the applicant’s fingerprints will be taken using a small, digitized scanner.  There is no ink involved.

At the end of a visa interview, the Consular Officer will inform the applicant of the outcome.  Unsuccessful applicants will be given the reason for the denial both orally and in writing.  Occasionally, the consular officer will need additional information in order to adjudicate the application accurately.  Sometimes, the application will be suspended while this additional information is requested directly from the United States or other source.  In other circumstances the officer will ask the applicant to provide the additional information.

The estimated time for processing of approved visas is one business day from the time of the interview.  Applicants should bring a pre-paid, insured envelope (either from the Slovak Post Office or a private courier company) so that we can mail your passport back to you after your visa is printed.  Applicants may also choose to return at a later date to pick up their visas in person or give authorization to other person to do so.