Us visa renewal by mail
Renewing a US visa by mail is a convenient option for eligible applicants who do not need to appear in person at a US embassy or consulate. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Eligibility:
To renew your US visa by mail, you must:
- Be a non-immigrant visa holder (e.g., B1/B2, F1, H1B, L1, etc.).
- Have a valid visa that is expiring or has expired within the past 12 months.
- Not be a citizen of a country that requires an interview at a US embassy or consulate.
- Meet the requirements for a visa renewal, including having a valid passport and meeting the eligibility criteria for your visa category.
Documents required:
To renew your US visa by mail, you will need to submit the following documents:
- DS-160 form: Complete and sign the online application form (DS-160) and print it out.
- Passport: Your valid passport must be submitted with your application.
- Old visa: If your visa is still valid, you must submit it with your application.
- New passport photo: You must submit one recent, color photograph that meets the Department of State's requirements.
- Proof of payment: You must pay the visa application fee and submit proof of payment with your application.
Application process:
- Complete the DS-160 form: Fill out the online application form (DS-160) and print it out.
- Gather required documents: Collect all the required documents, including your passport, old visa, new passport photo, and proof of payment.
- Mail the application: Send the completed application, along with all required documents, to the address listed on the US Department of State's website.
- Wait for processing: The US embassy or consulate will process your application and contact you if additional information is needed.
- Receive your new visa: If your application is approved, your new visa will be mailed to you.
Tips and reminders:
- Make sure to check the US Department of State's website for the most up-to-date information on visa renewal by mail.
- Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay in the United States.
- If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact the National Visa Center (NVC) or the US embassy or consulate in your country.
- Processing times may vary depending on the workload of the embassy or consulate, so plan accordingly.
By following these steps and guidelines, you can successfully renew your US visa by mail.