US visa application goes paperless starting May 24

05/15/2010 | 02:25 PM

Starting May 24, the United States Embassy in Manila will shift to an environment-friendly way of handling non-immigrant visa applications using an electronic online form.

The Embassy said the online form, known as DS-160, replaces three paper forms to make the completion of applications easier and faster.

"With demand for US visas continuing to increase worldwide, the US State Department is committed to using new technologies to improve the efficiency and accuracy of the visa application process. The web-based nonimmigrant visa application uses new technologies and replaces existing forms to better serve our visa applicants," it said.

"The new form has two key changes. The DS-160 form is submitted electronically, through the Internet, replacing paper forms. Also, the on-line form requires applicants to upload a digital photograph from the computers they use to complete the application," it added.

It added the new form is a “greener," user-friendly application.

Applicants may save the data in the form to complete an application later, and saved data may be reused for future applications.

"The form reduces use of paper, making it a greener method to apply for a US visa," it said.

It added the rest of the application process remains the same.

On the other hand, it said visa applicants, after completing the on-line application, must schedule an interview appointment, either on-line at this link, or by calling 1-909-101-7878.

Applicants must then pay the visa fee at an approved fee collection point. The final step is the appointment at the Embassy.

If using the form for the first time, applicants should read a step-by-step instructional guide, which may be found at US Embassy in Manila online site. — LBG, GMANews.TV

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