2009 Programs And Events
Consul Outlines Visa Services at AmCham Meeting (10/29/2009)
Consul David Mico spoke to more than 100 people at a meeting of the American Chamber of Commerce in Uzbekistan, where he outlined the visa services available to business travelers who want to visit the United States.
“Supporting the business relationship between the United States and Uzbekistan is an important mission of the Embassy. It is a mission that the Consular Section sees very much as its own,” he said. “We sincerely want to do our best to facilitate travel for qualified business applicants.”
Mico and U.S. Ambassador Richard Norland addressed a standing-room-only crowd Oct. 29 at a meeting of the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham). Ambassador Norland’s remarks can be found here.
The Consular Section is working to enhance the efficiency, predictability and transparency of the visa process. Regardless of the decision on whether to approve a visa, the process of applying for a U.S. visa “should not be another adventure,” Mico said.
Mico noted that the visa application forms and appointment system are now online, along with full information about how to apply, at the U.S. Embassy website. The electronic system has reduced errors and allows prospective travelers to choose the most convenient appointment times among those available, he said. The current wait time is about 13 days. However, expedited appointments are available for AmCham members traveling for business or for emergency travel.
Mico led the audience through what they can expect on the day of the interview: going through security screening at the Embassy; paying the cashier; and the short interview with a consular officer, including fingerprinting, questions about the purpose of travel and family situation, the possible review of documents, and what is usually an immediate yes-or-no decision on the visa request.
He noted that the Consular Section issues thousands of business travel visas each year, and he said that, regardless of the decision, all applicants will be treated with respect.
Mico also reminded the audience that the Consular Section is available to help with U.S. passports, notary services, voter assistance, help with federal benefits and other American Citizen Services.