Waiver

New Visa Procedures

Beginning January 10, 2011, the U.S. Embassy and Consulates will process visas differently.     Under the new procedures, most applicants will go to Applicant Service Centers (ASCs) prior to their consular section interview.  The ASC staff will collect the applicant’s biometric information that will be reviewed by the consular section prior to the applicant’s interview.   ASCs will be located in buildings separate from the U.S. Embassy and Consulates. 

Please check attachment to view the CRS report on Visa Waiver Program.

This cable provides additional information on implementation of the Travel Promotion Act of 2009 (TPA) and fee collection for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), requests posts to engage in outreach, and provides talking points.

Please check attachment for detail information.

Since the events of September 11, 2001, concerns have been raised about the ability of terrorists to enter the United States under the visa waiver program (VWP), because the VWP bypasses the first step by which foreign visitors are screened for admissibility to enter the United States.

Completing a naturalization application where the applicant is unable to recollect all the times  

In situations where the applicant travels frequently on business or when an applicant is a long-time permanent resident who traveled frequently since first obtaining permanent residence the Chicago Field office accepts an affidavit attesting to approximate dates of travel.

Motion to Reopen 

Release Date: May 20, 2010

For Immediate Release

Office of the Press Secretary

Contact: 202-282-8010

Introduction 

[Federal Register: March 31, 2010 (Volume 75, Number 61)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Page 15991-15992]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr31mr10-1]

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Rules and Regulations

Federal Register

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Release Date: March 9, 2010

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
Contact: 202-282-8010

Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano announced the designation of Greece as a member of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)—strengthening passenger information sharing and ensuring strict security standards while streamlining travel for Greek citizens visiting the United States.

Office of the Spokesman

Washington, DC

November 17, 2009

Question: Are there any new developments on the visa waiver program for Greek citizens?  Where does the U.S. currently stand on this issue?

      Answer: The U.S. Government is in the final stages of the decision process, and we hope to conclude the process soon.