Internet-based Appointment System for Visa Interviews Begins
Effective Feb. 1, 2004, the Embassy will replace the current appointment-by-telephone system with an Internet-based appointment system. Appointments are available on the Visa Services section of the Web site. This service is free of charge.
Only those non-immigrant visa applicants who are required to appear in person for an interview need to make appointments. Visas are not required for those Japanese citizens who are eligible to travel under the Visa Waiver Program.
Information on the Visa Waiver Program and whether an interview and appointment are necessary is also on the home page. All non-immigrant visa applicants also need to submit an Electronic Visa Application Form (EVAF DS-156). Also please note that DS-157 (Supplemental Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form) is now required of all applicants 16 years or over. These forms are downloadable from here.
For those applicants who do not have access to the Internet, assistance in making an appointment for a visa interview and in completing an EVAF is available by calling the Embassy's Visa Information Line at (03) 5354-4033 from a fax-capable phone.