Visa Services

What is a visa?

A visa is issued by a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. A visa entitles the holder to travel to the United States and apply for admission; it does not guarantee entry. An immigration inspector at the port of entry determines the visa holder's eligibility for admission into the United States.

Who needs a visa?

Anyone who is not eligible to enter the United States visa free under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), or is not exempt from the visa requirement. Please note: Travelers born in the United States and those who hold dual citizenship with the United States must enter and depart the United States on U.S. passports.

What type of visas are available?

• Nonimmigrant Visas



• Immigrant Visas

American Citizen Services & Visa Applicants with Flu-Like Symptoms

If you have a visa appointment or an American citizen service appointment and you are experiencing flu-like symptoms which you believe may be related to the H1N1 Flu, please do not come to the U.S. Embassy, London. We will provide priority re-scheduling of your appointment should you need to cancel for this reason as follows:-
 • To reschedule Visa appointments
 • To reschedule U.S. Passport and Citizenship services
 • To reschedule U.S. Special Consular Services appointments

Security - How To Get Into The Embassy

Please be aware of our security requirements.

If you fail to follow these security requirements you may face delays or cancellations to your visit.

The Visa Blog

Visit the Visa Section's blog! We've got up-to-the-minute information on visa issues affecting travelers to the United States.

Customer Service Statement to Visa Applicants

• The Department of State's Customer Service Statement to Visa Applicants

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