The U.S. Department of State has added a new feature to its Web site regarding visa wait times. Since visa applications are now under greater scrutiny, the State Department is advising those who wish to travel to the United States for business or other non-immigrant purposes to plan ahead. The site provides estimated waiting periods to get an interview to apply for a visa and the estimated time it will take to process the application at the consular section.
The visa wait times are shown for various locations around the world. The State Department does advise that it is best to check with the local embassy or consular section to confirm the information. To visit the visa wait times site, go to
http://www.travel.state.gov/visa/tempvisitors_wait.phpAll visitors coming to the US from visa-waiver countries (mostly in Europe) are required to register online, be screened, and then authorized for entry. This new Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) was ordered by the Department of Homeland Security. Authorization is good for two years or until your current passport expires. For more information and to register please visit
https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/esta.html