FAQ About Nonimmigrant Visas
Visa Interview
Q: When should I arrive for my interview?
A: Applicants will be asked to arrive at the Embassy at either 8:30 AM or 9:30 AM. Applicants must arrive at their scheduled time and will be screened through security before entering the consular waiting area. Applicants should expect to spend approximately two hours at the Consular Section.
Q: Which documents should I bring?
A: All applicants are required to bring the Electronic Visa Application Form, commonly known as the EVAF or DS-156, with them to the interview. The form can be accessed directly at http://evisaforms.state.gov. If you do not bring the EVAF filled out electronically, we will not be able to process the application. Applicants also need to bring the original receipt with them. Further, all male visa applicants between the ages of 16 and 45 are required to fill out DS-157. DS-157 can be accessed from the same websites listed above.
There are no requirements for an applicant to submit additional documentation with their nonimmigrant visa application. However, applicants must demonstrate that they are eligible for a visitor or business visa. Evidence that shows the purpose of the trip, the intent to depart the United States, and arrangements made to cover the costs of a trip, may be provided. Due to the unique nature of each individual’s trip to the United States, it is impossible to specify the exact evidence that an applicant must submit. Applicants should carefully consider what they believe will support their application for a nonimmigrant visa to the United States.
Q: Should I bring a bank letter?
A: Due to the number of fraudulent bank letters, the Embassy has determined that bank letters are not sufficient proof of financial ability to cover the costs of a trip. Original bankbooks or bank statements provide stronger evidence of proof of an applicant’s financial situation.
Q: As an American citizen, how can I assure the Consular Officer my friend or relative is qualified for a visa?
A: Your friend or relative must qualify for a visa based on their ability to demonstrate sufficient social and economic ties that will compel them to return to Mongolia after a brief stay in the United States.
Q: Can the Consular Officer call me during the visa interview if s/he has questions about my friend or relative who is applying?
A: Under U.S. immigration law, the applicant is responsible for providing sufficient information to demonstrate their ties to Mongolia and the purpose of their trip during the interview. Consular Officers are trained to make decisions based on the information presented.
Q: Do children need to be present at the visa interview?
A: Children under 5 do not need to be present at the visa interview.
Q: Do I need an invitation letter to get a visa? What are the requirements for an invitation letter?
A: Applicants are not required to present an invitation letter. Some applicants find it helpful to have such a letter in order to clarify the purpose of their trip. If an applicant does bring an invitation to the interview, it is helpful to include information regarding the applicant’s relationship with the person/s he will visit (whether family, friend, business contact, etc.) If visiting family, please indicate whether that person is a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident (i.e. bearer of a U.S. green card), or nonimmigrant in the United States on a work or student visa. Individuals applying for business visas should be prepared to explain what kind of business trip they are making. For those persons visiting business contacts or clients, please bring correspondence that explains the nature of the trip. If you choose to include an invitation letter with your visa application, it does not need to be notarized.
Q: Who can accompany an applicant to a visa interview?
A: Applicants should come alone to their interviews. Parents must accompany their children under the age of 14 to their interviews. Applicants with serious medical problems may also choose to bring an escort, or they can call the Embassy for guidance.
Q: I received a “yellow sheet,” when can I return to the Embassy?
A: Applicants will receive specific instructions from the officer regarding their case. In some situations the applicant does not need to return. The Embassy will complete the additional processing required for their case and contact the applicant when the visa is ready or if there are further questions. In other cases, the applicant will be asked to return with additional information. The applicant should return during normal interview hours which are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday mornings beginning at 10:00 AM.