Apply for US visas where you live: Embassy
The United States (US) Embassy in Dhaka has advised Bangladeshi applicants seeking nonimmigrant visas to schedule their interviews at a US embassy or consulate in their country of nationality or legal residence, warning that third-country applications may face greater scrutiny and lower chances of approval.
In an advisory issued on Sunday, the embassy said some applicants travel to other countries in an attempt to secure earlier interview appointments.
However, applying outside the country of nationality or residence may make it more difficult to qualify for a visa.
The advisory follows updated instructions from the US Department of State that took immediate effect for all nonimmigrant visa applicants.
Under the revised guidance, applicants are expected to book interviews at the US embassy or consulate in their country of nationality or legal residence.
Nationals of countries where routine US nonimmigrant visa services are unavailable must apply at a designated embassy or consulate unless they legally reside elsewhere.
Applicants applying on the basis of residency must provide evidence that they legally live in the country where they are seeking the visa.
The embassy said visa application fees are non-refundable and cannot be transferred to another location.
Applicants applying outside their home country or designated processing post may also face significantly longer waiting periods.
Existing nonimmigrant visa appointments will generally remain valid and will not be cancelled. Applicants will be notified if appointments at any embassy or consulate need to be cancelled in specific circumstances.
The policy does not apply to applicants for A, G, C-2, C-3 or NATO visas, diplomatic or official visas, or travel covered by the United Nations Headquarters Agreement.
Rare exceptions may also be granted on humanitarian, medical emergency or foreign policy grounds.
The embassy advised applicants to consult the website of the relevant US mission for information on application procedures, local requirements and the availability of consular services before making travel or appointment arrangements.
