Ask the Consul
Preparing for Summer Travel
May 17, 2007Q: How can I prepare accordingly for summer travel to the United States?
As summer approaches many people are beginning to make plans for summer vacation, some of which may include travel to visit family or friends in the United States. Individuals who need to apply for the nonimmigrant visa are reminded to make their visa interview appointments at least two months before the date that they wish to travel. Planning ahead will help avoid the disappointment and inconvenience of disrupted travel plans.
Q: How can I obtain a Non Immigrant Visa (NIV) appointment?
The U.S. Embassy has instituted an online visa appointment service. All applicants must now schedule their own NIV appointments using the new online system.
After completing the Electronic Visa Application Form (EVAF) DS-156 online at http://georgetown.usembassy.gov/, the applicant may proceed to make an interview appointment. Individuals can book appointment dates up to two months in advance and may select one of three potential time slots (7:30 AM, 8:30 AM or 9:30 AM) available from Monday through Thursday each week, excluding holidays and Embassy closings.
Before the appointment date, applicants must go to Demerara Bank to pay the non refundable processing fee for each application of US $100.00 or the equivalent in Guyana Dollars. Applicants should bring the payment receipt, along with the completed 3 page application, to the Embassy on the day of the appointment.
The following Demerara Bank branches accept NIV processing fees:
230 Camp & South Streets, Georgetown: 8:00 – 14:00 hrs (Mondays - Thursdays).
8:00 – 14:30 hrs (Fridays)
71 Public Road, Rose Hall, Corentyne: 8:00 – 14:00 hrs (Mondays – Thursdays)
8:00 – 14:30 hrs (Fridays)
Q: What if I need an emergency (expedited) appointment?
The waiting period for an interview appointment varies with demand. Typically, the Embassy is able to offers next day appointments. However, during certain times of year, like the summer season, the wait can be as long as several days. Qualified applicants can ensure their ability to obtain a visa in time for their planned travel by requesting their appointments early. Failure to plan ahead for non-emergency travel is not grounds for an expedited appointment. However, the consular section will schedule expedited appointments in cases where a genuine emergency exists.
Applicants with emergency travel needs who have tried unsuccessfully to obtain a timely appointment through our on-line appointment system may contact the Visa Inquiry Unit at 225-7965 or 225-7966 between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM to determine if an expedited interview can be scheduled.
Q: If I am issued a Non Immigrant Visa, when will the visa be ready?
Visa applications are now subject to a greater degree of scrutiny than in the past. All applicants require a personal interview as a standard part of visa processing. Additionally, some applicants may be informed at interview their applications require additional screening. Such applicants are advised to expect delays. The time needed for adjudication of individual cases will continue to be difficult to predict. Therefore, we recommend that individuals allow ample time before their planned travel date when seeking to obtain a visa.