press releases

Change In U.S. Visa Application Procedures

The United States has announced a worldwide change in visa application procedures. Beginning on November 1, 2006, all applicants for American non-immigrant visas must complete the required visa application form on the internet using the “Electronic Visa Application Form” (EVAF).

This requirement applies to all visa applicants, regardless of the purpose of their travel. Prior to November 1, 2006, Zambian visa applicants have been allowed to submit visa applications either electronically or by hand. The move to EVAF will allow for more efficiency and accuracy in the visa process. Starting November 1, all non-immigrant visa applicants must present a completed EVAF on the day of their appointment. Their interview will be held the following day. Appointments for non-immigrant visa interviews may be made by calling the Embassy at 01-250-955 ext. 2234, and are usually scheduled within a week of the applicant’s call.

In September 2003, the U.S. Department of State introduced the internet-based visa form known as EVAF. Applicants fill out and submit the EVAF on-line, print it and bring it to the consular section. The EVAF is identical to the paper version of the non-immigrant visa application, but makes the application both easier and helps to eliminate clerical mistakes, in addition to making the entire visa application process go faster.

Currently, Zambia has the second highest rate of EVAF usage in Sub-Saharan Africa, surpassing South Africa and Nigeria. Only Mozambique, which issues many less visas, has a higher EVAF rate. Since its introduction, EVAF usage has taken off in Zambia. Currently, more than 50% of Zambia’s visa applicants take advantage of EVAF technology.

The EVAF can be found at http://evisaforms.state.gov/, and is available in several languages. The EVAF is designed to keep your personal information private, safe and secure.

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