application interview waiver letter

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

For visitors, travel, student and other international travel medical insurance.

Home » Visas » Visa Interview Waiver and Visa Renewal

US Visa Interview Waiver and Visa Renewal

US Visa Renewal

There is really no set procedure for renewing a US visa. You will have to apply all over again, including paying all the fees. However, some of the applicants may not need to attend the fingerprint appointment and/or consular interview, as described below.

US Visa Interview Waiver Program

Under the US visa interview waiver program, certain repeat travelers do not need to appear for an in-person interview at the US Consulate/Embassy, as long as certain conditions as listed below are met. Within this program, there are two categories of applicants: Those who still need to appear for the fingerprinting and others who don’t need even that.

Eligibility

You qualify for Interview Waiver Program (IWP) if any of the following situations apply to you:

• You are applying for a visa in any of the A-1, A-2, C-2, C-3, G-1, G-2, G-3, or G-4 categories
• You are over the age of 80 years 
• You are under the age of 7 years 
• Either of your parents has a valid visa in the same visa category in which you (the parent) are applying or renewing your visa at the same time as the child. Country-Specific: Mexico: Both parents must be Mexican or a Third Country National residing in Mexico with immigration status (FM2 or FM3).
• Your prior visa in the same classification (not blanket L) is still valid or expired within the last 12 months
• Applicant has a valid passport and is in possession of their previous visa.
• The previous US visa you have/had is in the same visa class as the one you wish to renew. 
• Your most recent visa (in the same visa class for which you are applying) was issued on or after your 14 th  birthday. 
• Prior visa has the same name, date of birth, place of birth, and nationality.  Note: If an applicant’s name has changed from their previous visa, such as from maiden to married name, they must provide the other name on the DS-160 application as an “alias”.
• Mexico: Applicant is a Mexican citizen or a Third Country National residing in Mexico with immigration status (FM2 or FM3). 
• You received your visa after January 1, 2008. 

Note: If you need your passport returned within 2 weeks of submitting the application, you must select “Interview Required” to schedule a VAC appointment and a Consular interview.

Ineligibility for Renewal Without Consular Interview

The following types of applicants need to attend both the fingerprint appointment and consular interview appointment for US visa renewal.

• Applicants for E-3 visa, T visa, U visa, H-2 visa, B-1 visa with “domestic employee in the US” annotation, and blanket L-1 visa.
• Applicants who have been arrested or convicted for a crime anywhere in the world, or have had a US immigration violation, such as being deported from the US, denied entry into the US, or had any other problems or difficulties with US Customs and Border Protection when attempting to enter the US.

Application Procedure

• Look at the US visa application procedure .  Follow the steps, which include photographs, application form, creating a profile, and paying visa fees.
• If you qualify for the interview waiver or DropBox option for US visa renewal, you will need to schedule an appointment to visit the document drop-off locations in order to submit your documents. However, you will not need to schedule an interview at the US Embassy/Consulate.
• Your current  passport  
• Your previous passport, if it contains your current or most recent visa 
• One copy of the drop-box letter 
• Two  photographs taken within the last six months. Do not submit the same photograph that appeared on your last visa.
• J-2 applicants: Copy of DS-2019 
• H-4 and L-2 applicants: Copy of I-797 and primary applicant’s visa 
• D and C-1/D applicants: Copy of joining letter and original CDC
• Child applicants should submit photocopies of either of their parents’ valid visas in the same category in which the child is applying
• Take the “DropBox” package along with the second printout of the document checklist to one of the Visa Application Centers during your scheduled appointment. They will check your document checklist before they accept your application for delivery to the US Embassy/Consulate.
• In case any additional information is required for processing your application, you will be contacted by email.  If your visa is issued, please look at passport delivery details .  However, please note that there is no guarantee that the visa will be issued. After reviewing an application, the US Embassy/Consulate may require you to appear in person in some cases.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

We are sorry that this post was not useful for you!

Let us improve this post!

Tell us how we can improve this post?

• Medical Insurance Directory Fillable Forms Read/Post Experiences Sample Documents H1-B Visa Sponsors

Before Interview

• Schedule an Appointment Appointment Waiting Times Expedited Appointment Appointment FAQ Visa Interview Waiver and Visa Renewal Visa Fees Visa Fee FAQ Visa Fee Not Required More Topics
• Visa Application Procedure Passport Validity Premium Processing Visa Ineligible Classes Visa Waiver - Green Card Holders Sample Documents US Visa Types More Topics
• Fingerprinting and Photograph Appointmen Security Measures Fingerprint Collection Interview Guide

After Interview

• Passport Delivery Instructions Visa Refusal Visa Stamp vs. Authorized Stay OBIM: Entry / Exit System Correcting Form I-94 Errors Extend Nonimmigrant Stay US Visa Overstay & INA 222G More Topics
• Nonimmigrant Visas D and C-1/D Crewmen Visa Non-U.S. Transit Visa Foreign Transit Visa - Indians

Share this article:

• Visitor Visa
• Visitors Insurance
• Read Experiences
• Discussions Forums
• Insurance Resources
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use

immihelp ® .com is private non-lawyer web site. Not affiliated with any government agency.

Copyright © 1999-2024 immihelp ® .com. All rights reserved.

https://www.immihelp.com/us-visa-interview-waiver-visa-renewal/

This website uses cookies, some of which are essential for the functionality of the website while others are for improving user experience and personalization. By continuing to browse this website, you agree to our use of cookies. For information about your privacy, please read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

Situation in Haiti April 5, 2024

U.s. citizens in haiti, update january 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Tourism & Visit

Study & Exchange

Other Visa Categories

U.S. Visa: Reciprocity and Civil Documents by Country

Share this page:

Student Visa

Exchange Visitor Visa

Apply for a Waiver of the Exchange Visitor Two-Year Home-Country Physical Presence Requirement

Read the  Eligibility Information before you begin your waiver application.

STEP 1 – Complete the Online J Visa Waiver Recommendation Application

Complete Form DS-3035, available on the  J Visa Waiver Online  webpage. Follow the online instructions. You must use the online form. Did you submit another form version? We will return your waiver application to you without the processing fee. The fee is non-refundable.

Important Information for Completing the Online J Visa Waiver Recommendation Application, Form DS-3035:

• SEVIS Number, when program approval was on Form IAP-66:  Enter the following:  N0000000000  (must have 10 zeros). For Subject Field Code, enter the following from the IAP-66 form:  00.  followed by the 4-digit subject field code number from Form IAP-66  (example 00.2546).
• First Entry Date:  Applicants who entered on a J visa before February 1, 1999 should enter the date February 1, 1999  in this field.
• J-2 Dependents: If you have a spouse or children who had J-2 status, list them as requested in the online application. (Review Frequently Asked Questions about dependent J-2 spouses and children.)
• Alien Registration Number: Please skip this field, as Alien Registration Numbers are no longer required for processing.
• I-94 Number: I-94 Numbers are no longer required for processing, so please skip this field.

Your information will download into a barcode after you complete the online form. You will be immediately issued a waiver case number and further instructions. Next, you must print your online Form DS-3035 with barcode.  You must print the barcode in black and white. Do not print in color.

STEP 2 – Mail your Waiver Application and Fee Payment

Mail the following items to one of the two addresses below. The address you must use will depend on the mailing method you choose:

• Your completed online application, Form DS-3035, with barcode that you printed;
• Legible copies of every/all Form DS-2019/IAP-66 ever issued to you;
• Application fee. Review Exchange Visitor Visa Waiver Fee for detailed information about fee payment.

Postal Service

Department of State J-1 Waiver P.O. Box 979037 St. Louis, MO 63197-9000

Courier Service

Department of State J-1 Waiver Attn: 979037 3180 Rider Trail South Earth City, MO 63045

IMPORTANT NOTICE:  You must submit your application with barcode and fee payment together. Did you submit one item without the other? We will return that item to you, and we will not process your application.

We process your application fee at our office in St. Louis, MO. Next, we forward your case to the Department of State, Waiver Review Division in Washington, DC. We will not process an application sent to the incorrect address but will instead return your application to you.

STEP 3 – Submit Supporting Documents

Next, submit your required supporting documents. These documents are extra to what you submitted in Step 2 and vary depending on the basis for which you request a waiver. Others must submit documents for you to the Waiver Review Division, if applicable. See the chart below. (We refer to others as “third party” following in this webpage).

You must ensure that third parties send to us any supporting documents for you. The Waiver Review Division will NOT follow up on missing required supporting documents.

Next, you may verify we received supporting documents from third parties. You may check your application status on the  J Visa Waiver Online  webpage but note that updates can take at least 3-4 weeks to appear there. 

Third parties must send supporting documents as pdf attachments to: 212e [email protected]

No Objection Statement

Your home country’s government must issue a No Objection Statement. Specifically, its Embassy in Washington, DC must issue the statement.  It must state your government has no objection to you not returning to your home country to satisfy the two-year home-country physical presence requirement and no objection to the possibility of you becoming a U.S. lawful permanent resident.

The Embassy must send the No Objection Statement to the Waiver Review Division at [email protected]. ( Note:  This inbox will only accept emails sent from designated embassy officials. Your embassy cannot provide it to you to submit and emails from applicants or other individuals will not be answered.) Contact the consular section in your home country’s embassy in Washington, DC to make this request.

Alternatively, a designated ministry in your home government may issue the No Objection Statement. The ministry would then send it to the U.S. Chief of Mission, Consular Section at the U.S. Embassy within that country. The U.S. Embassy would then forward it directly to the Waiver Review Division.

Note: U.S. law does not permit foreign medical physicians who acquired J-1 status on or after January 10, 1977, to receive graduate medical education or training to request waivers under this basis.

Request by an Interested U.S. Federal Government Agency

A request by an interested U.S. federal government agency must be in a letter. The head of the agency, or his or her designee, must sign the letter and submit it to the Waiver Review Division. ( Note:  The interested U.S. federal government agency cannot provide the letter to you to submit.) The letter must explain why granting a waiver of the two-year home-country physical presence requirement is in the public interest of the United States and why it would be detrimental to the agency if you must return to your home country to fulfill the requirement. Any U.S. federal government agency may request a waiver under this basis. 

Interested Government Agency Request on behalf of a foreign physician who agrees to serve in a medically under-served area  - The interested U.S. federal government agency must send the following supporting documents to the Waiver Review Division. (Note: The interested agency cannot provide the supporting documents to you to submit.):

• Copies of all DS-2019 /IAP-66 forms issued to you;
• Your curriculum vitae;
• A statement signed and dated by you that reads exactly as follows:

"I,__________(your name) hereby declare and certify, under penalty of the provisions of 18USC.1001, that: (1) I have sought or obtained the cooperation of_______(enter name of U.S. Government agency which will submit/is submitting an Interested Government Agency Waiver request on your behalf to obtain a waiver of the two-year home-country physical presence requirement); and (2) I do not now have pending nor will I submit another request to any U.S. Government department or agency or its equivalent, to act on my behalf in any matter relating to a waiver of my two-year home residence requirement.";

• A letter of request from the head of the agency, or a designated official, stating why it is in the public interest that you receive a waiver of the two-year home-country physical presence requirement (section 212(e) of the Immigration and Nationality Act);
• A signed contract for no less than three years and 40 hours a week between you and the facility where you will work;
• Evidence that the clinic/facility is located in a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services designated Health Professional Shortage Area or Medically Underserved Area;
• A statement signed by the head of the facility at which you will be employed stating the facility is located in a designated Health Professional Shortage Area or Medically Underserved Area and provides medical care to both Medicaid- and Medicare-eligible patients, and indigent uninsured patients. The statement should also include the Federal Information Processing Standards county code and census tract or block numbering area number (assigned by the Bureau of Census) or the 9-digit zip code of the area where the facility is located;
• Evidence it made unsuccessful efforts to recruit a U.S. citizen physician for the position (for example, medical journal advertisements; labor certification; or language in a cover letter stating efforts to recruit a U.S. citizen physician have been unsuccessful); and
• Form G-28 or letter from a law office, if you designated an attorney to represent you.

Interested Government Agency Request from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) on behalf of an exchange visitor physician to serve in a VA hospital:

• VA hospitals do not have to be in an underserved area; and
• VA applications must include a signed memorandum of agreement between you and the hospital in place of a three-year contract.

Interested Government Agency Request on behalf of a J-2 applicant:  With a few exceptions, J-2 spouses and children cannot independently apply for waiver recommendations when their J-1 spouses or parents are not applying.

The exceptions where the Waiver Review Division will consider requests for waiver recommendations from J-2 spouses and children are:

• when the J-1 spouse or parent is deceased;
• when the J-1 and J-2 spouses are divorced; and
• when a J-2 child reaches age 21.

All such cases are evaluated by the Waiver Review Division on a case-by-case basis. However, the State Department will act on behalf of such applicants only rarely and for humanitarian circumstances.

If you, as a J-2 spouse or child, believe that your situation merits special consideration based on one of the exceptions above, you should complete online form DS-3035 selecting “Interested Government Agency (non-physician),” pay the processing fee, and submit a statement explaining why you are applying for a waiver and your J-1 spouse or parent is not. Your statement should also explain why your situation merits special consideration. Your application should include a request for the Department of State to act as an IGA on your behalf based on the humanitarian circumstances in your case. As applicable, you must also submit:

• a copy of your J-1 spouse’s or parent’s death certificate;
• a copy of the divorce decree from your J-1 spouse; or
• a copy of your birth certificate, if you are a J-2 child age 21 or over.

Persecution

You must submit Form I-612, Application for Waiver of the Foreign Residence Requirement  to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). USCIS will forward its decision to the Waiver Review Division. The Waiver Review Division will proceed with a waiver recommendation under this basis only if USCIS makes a finding of persecution.

You may complete the waiver application with fee payment (Steps 1 and 2) either before you submit Form I-612 to USCIS  or  after USCIS has informed the Waiver Review Division that it made a finding of persecution. If you complete Steps 1 and 2 before you submit Form I-612 to USCIS, you will not receive a refund of the application fee if USCIS does not make a persecution finding.

Exceptional Hardship to a U.S. citizen (or lawful permanent resident) spouse or child

Note: Mere separation from your U.S. citizen (or lawful permanent resident) spouse or child is not sufficient to establish exceptional hardship.

You must submit Form I-612, Application for Waiver of the Foreign Residence Requirement  to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). USCIS will forward its decision to the Waiver Review Division. The Waiver Review Division will proceed with a waiver recommendation under this basis only if USCIS makes a finding of exceptional hardship.

You may complete the waiver application with fee payment (Steps 1 and 2) either before you submit Form I-612 to USCIS  or  after USCIS has informed the Waiver Review Division that it made a finding of exceptional hardship. If you complete Steps 1 and 2 before you submit Form I-612 to USCIS, you will not receive a refund of the application fee if USCIS does not make an exceptional hardship finding.

Request by a Designated State Public Health Department or its Equivalent (Conrad State 30 Program)

Note: Only foreign medical doctors who received their exchange visitor J-1 status to pursue graduate medical education or training may apply for a waiver under this basis.

Review the list of State Public Health Departments . The designated state public health department must send the following to the Waiver Review Division. ( Note:  The state public health department cannot provide these items to you to submit.):

• Copies of all of your DS-2019/IAP-66 forms;
• A letter from the state public health department’s designated official (designated by the state governor) which states it is in the public interest that you remain in the U.S. and includes the following:
• Your country of last legal permanent residence
• Name of medical facility
• Address of facility
• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services designated Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) ID number of medical shortage area
• A letter from the facility that wishes to hire you;
• Evidence that the facility is in a Health Professional Shortage Area or a Medically Underserved Area;
• A signed contract for no less than 40 hours a week for three years between the facility and you, with signatures by you and the head of the facility; and

NOTE: Will you request a waiver under this basis and did you also receive funding from your home country government to participate in the exchange program? If so, then your home country’s government must submit a No Objection Statement to the Waiver Review Division. (Please see No Objection Statement instructions.) The No Objection Statement is in addition to the waiver request by the designated state public health department, explained above. The No Objection Statement must state that it is for a Request by a Designated State Public Health Department (or its equivalent), or a Conrad State 30 Program, waiver.

STEP 4 – Check your Waiver Request Status and Update your Contact Information

Has your contact information (address, phone number, or email address) changed? Did you forget to include an email address? You must update your information on the  J Visa Waiver Online  webpage. Select “Inform the Department of State of a change to personal data.” We can contact you only if we have your accurate contact information. 

STEP 5 – If the Waiver Review Division Needs More Information from You

If we need more information or documents from you, we will contact you via email at the email address you provided on your online Form DS-3035.

You should email requested information as PDF documents from your email address of record (on your Form DS-3035) to [email protected]. Use the following model for the subject line: Request for Additional Information for John Doe: Case #185XXXX.

STEP 6 – Processing Times

Processing times vary depending on the basis under which you request a waiver. The times listed below are  estimates only . The processing time for your application begins when your file is complete. Your file is complete when we have your waiver application, processing fee, copies of DS-2019/IAP-66 forms (Step 2), and all required documents (Step 3).

Notice:  Some waiver recommendation applications require further administrative processing. It will take additional time for the Waiver Review Division to send its recommendation to USCIS for such cases.

STEP 7 – Department of State Recommendation and Final Determination by USCIS

The Department of State, Waiver Review Division will forward its recommendation to USCIS and will notify you via email once we have done so.  After the Waiver Review Division sends its recommendation to USCIS, you must contact USCIS for the status of your case as the Department of State no longer has jurisdiction.

USCIS makes the final determination on your waiver request. USCIS will decide whether to approve or deny your waiver application. USCIS will notify you at the U.S. address you provided. (Please note that USCIS cannot send notifications to addresses outside of the United States so please ensure they have a domestic address for you on file to receive your final waiver decision.)  

USCIS is the final waiver authority. You do not have a waiver of the two-year home-country physical presence requirement until USCIS informs you of an approved waiver.

More Information

A-Z Index Latest News What is a U.S. Visa? Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate Exchange Visitor Visa

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

How to Renew your B1/B2 USA Visa through the Interview Waiver Program

Is your B1/B2 US visa subject for renewal? Good news! You don’t need to go to the US Embassy to have an interview; instead, they have a program that will allow you to send your documents and receive a visa through 2GO. Learn how to renew your B1/B2 USA Visa through the Interview Waiver Program in this article.

• How To Fill Up the DS160 Form Online [USA Tourist Visa Application Form]
• What Will Happen if You Overstay in the USA? Consequences of Overstaying with your US Visa
• How to Get Your USA Travel History Online (Arrivals and Departures)
• Flying with Pets – How To Travel with Your Pets from the Philippines to USA
• USA B2 Tourist Visa Applications – 20 Consul Interview Questions You Could Be Asked and How Best to Answer Them

Table of Contents

Eligible for the Interview Waiver Program

You must be able to answer “yes” to all of the criteria below. If you answer “no” to one, then you may need an interview.

• Have a previous B1/B2 visa, and you wish to renew it
• B1/B2 visa was issued after July 1, 2007
• Your old visa was valid for a minimum of 5 years
• It expired within the last 12 months or is still valid
• You are Filipino
• No “Clearance Received” or “Travel with Employer” on your old visa
• You still have your passport with the B1/B2 visa
• The details on your old visa doesn’t need to be changed or corrected (e.g., name, gender, birthdate)
• Your visa was issued on or after your 14 th birthday
• The last time you applied for a B1/B2 visa, you got approved

Requirements for Renewal of B1/B2 Visa

• Current Valid Passport
• DS – 160 Application Form
• Interview Waiver Confirmation Letter
• Old passport with previous B1/B2 Visa
• 2 pcs of 2×2 Colored Photo with white background, taken within the last 6 months
• Visa Fee – USD 160 in its peso equivalent

Step-by-Step Guide in Getting your B1/B2 Visa

STEP 1: Pay your visa application fee.

Through RCBC Bank :

Go to this link for instructions on how to pay as well as the Peso Equivalent of your payment. Print this slip. Please take note of the expiration date as you will have to reprint in case you pay beyond the date.

Proceed to the nearest RCBC Bank and pay the visa application fee. Don’t forget to get your copy as there is a receipt number there.

Through Online via PesoNet:

Click this link for instructions. Note that your reference number will be used in your application as well as added in the Account number.

STEP 2 : Complete your DS-160 Form or the Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application form. You can read the instructions here . Make sure your DS-160 Confirmation number is ready.

STEP 3 : Create an account in the Registration Website .

You will need to have your DS-160 Confirmation Number as well as your payment reference number. Answer the details asked.

On STEP 7, you will be checked if you are eligible for the Interview Waiver Program.

Enter the address where your passport will be delivered.

Enter your receipt number.

If all are accepted, then you can print your Interview Waiver Confirmation Letter.

STEP 4 : Prepare all documents needed for delivery. You can also include a copy of your receipt. Place them in a plastic envelope, so it’s safer.

STEP 5 : Proceed to the nearest 2GO Branch. You can refer here to know the outlets or branches in your area. Avail the interview Waiver Service at 2GO; they will send it to the US Embassy on your behalf.

STEP 6 : Wait for your passport with your visa, if approved, to be delivered back to the address you entered. Congratulations! You know have a renewed B1/B2 US Visa!

FAQs on Renewal of B1/B2 US Visa

1. How much is the Visa Fee?

The Visa Fee is USD 160, but you will pay in its peso equivalent. Please read this link to know more about the current exchange rate as well as the instructions.

2. Is the Visa Fee refundable?

No, once you have paid it, it is non-refundable.

3. I can’t go outside, can I pay online?

Yes, you can. However, this service is limited to several banks. You can check the link above if your bank is included as well as read the instructions?

4. Who are eligible for the interview waiver program?

Those who have a B1/B2 Visa and said “yes” to all that is stated above are eligible.

5. What if I answered “no” on a question above? (E.g. I lost my old passport with my B1/B2 Visa)

Then, you are not eligible for the interview waiver program. You will need to schedule an interview to have your visa renewed.

6. Will I be granted a visa automatically?

No, this program does not guarantee you a visa. There might be cases where you need to be interviewed.

Well, that’s the Interview Waiver Program for Renewal of B1/B2 USA Visas! It’s a very convenient program as you are able to skip that nerve-wracking interview and only go out when you are about to deliver your documents. For other visas, you can follow our blog and the US Embassy’s page for the latest updates. Keep safe!

Are you on Pinterest? Pin these!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

68 thoughts on “ How to Renew your B1/B2 USA Visa through the Interview Waiver Program ”

Hi, Just asking for a friend. If the husband and wife are renewing their visas through the Interview Waiver program, can they mail their docs in one package since they only got one interview waiver confirmation letter or do they have to be mailed separately? Thanks for any input!

thank you so much, very helpful 😀 if you have trouble getting to step 7 like me, make sure you select B1/B2 visa type, not just B1 or B2 (-_-)’ so that the interview waiver questions would appear

How long does it usually takes to get interview waiver confirmation letter? Will need this before sending the docs to the embassy, Is that correct?

Do I have to pay fees in drop box to be delivered to us embassy

Hello. Hope you dont mind replying to my inquiry. Applied Mar 18 this year for B1/B2 visa renewal. Answered YES to all questions. I got a visa interview appointment for next year instead. I didnt received any interview waiver letter, am actually waiting for it so I can send my documents thru LBC. Need your guidance, how long do they send the interview waiver? Where can I get it? Thanks

Kindly e-mail the embassy po

Hi. What are the documents that they will ask once you get comfirmation for interview waiver? Is it the same as the documents needed for a regular renewal of visa? Like bank statements and such? thank you

check under – Requirements for Renewal of B1/B2 Visa no need for other requirements.

Hi, is name change due to marriage now considered eligible for interview waiver as long as documentary proof is provided?

Anybody knows contact number of US Embassy

Thank you so much for the informative post! I’m just confused on the Registration website “Enter your name as it appears in your passport (enter your first and middle names…” There is no space to put your middle name? do I leave it out?

You can read this guide: https://twomonkeystravelgroup.com/how-to-fill-up-ds160-form-usa-visa/

This blog was really informative… including the comments section.

I’d like to share my experience in case might he helpful for others.

I followed the step by step guide here in this blog… all went well just want to point out 2 things from the comment section that I found was helpful

1 comment below mentioned that you needed to bring photocopy of your passport when paying in RCBC bank. In my case, The teller at the bank didn’t ask for a copy but I came prepared. So I’m glad somebody mentioned that here at least I was prepared. (I paid my visa fee at RCBC branch in Sta Lucia mall— old bldg)

Another comment below mentioned that she had issue with the payment section of the application. She was getting the error “no valid record can be found”. She also mentioned that her account got suspended for 72 hours (I assume too many attempts?). After reading this I was careful of how many times to try to validate the payment. It says on the payment slip that if you pay before 1 pm, your payment will be available after 4 hours. I tried to validate my payment after 4 hours and got an error. I tried again after additional 4 hours, still error. I was anxious and worried the bank made a mistake with entering the receipt number. It was not a nice feeling. Next day 7am tried again, still error. I decided to go back to the bank and asked if it’s possible to see on their end if the payment went through. They said they can’t check but said to wait atleast 24hours since some bank takes longer to update the system. I waited until around 4pm (next day. More than 24 hours after I paid) and it finally went through. LESSON of the story: Patience is the key. ?

Finally, last tip I can share is to try to check/call/contact 2go branches first before visiting them as some branches DO NOT accept documents for mailing. Only challenge with this, is the numbers for the branches on their website are not accurate. Most numbers I tried to call was just ringing. I was only able to call 1 branch in marikina and they said they don’t accept docs. Suggested to try SM marikina. So yes, they do accept docs in SM marikina.

I sent my docs last Wednesday (Aug 4). Got my passport with visa on Aug 10. I was lucky with the timing I guess. I was expecting for atleast 2-4 weeks wait due to the lockdown. But I got it in less than a week.

I hope this was helpful. Thank you for the author of this blog and also people who shared their experiences.

Hi, Cris! US embassy received my passport on 13 Aug (Friday) and just today 16 Aug (Monday) the status on my dashboard said “Passport has been received from the consular section, and is currently being processed for delivery.” I wonder if your status was the same? Not sure how to take this, if this is good news or not lol, as I wasnt expecting for fast results.

Thank you Cris. I am from Marikina and i will follow your suggestions. Pay at Sta Lucia, wait for 28 hours to be sure 🙂 send docs at 2go sm marikina. what size of paper did you use to print confirmation code, etc (short bond paper or A4?). Which part is tricky to fill up? The waiver form and profile after payment looks confusing..

Hi All, What required supporting documents need to be submitted for the dropbox renewal? Do we need to submit a travel itinerary, bank certs, COE, etc? Or is it just the DS160 form, old and new passports, and Interview waiver letter? Appreciate your help. Thanks!

Read this po: USA Visa Tips for Filipinos (Non-Immigrant B2 Visa)

Recently finished filling out the DS 160 form and paid successfully. Also registered on their https://cgifederal.secure.force.com/ .

However there are no more questions regarding if you are renewing so you could get the visa interview waiver letter.

Has anyone experienced not getting an option for the interview waiver because there was not questions asked if you are renewing or not?

have you arrived in Step 7? What were the questions?

I also experienced the same thing. After the receipt number, it went already to the date of appointment.

How to apply for the interview waiver??

please contact the US Embassy

Hi. Did you get to Step 7? How did you do it? I also encountered same problem. After Step 6, payment and Step 8 appeared. I already told US embassy about it but they merely stated the step. I hope someone who experienced this can help me. Thanks.

Hi, I am qualified for the interview waiver for renewal of my B1/B2 US visa. I have accomplished the DS-160 and paid my MVR. However, as I logged in to the ustraveldocs site , I filled up my Receipt Number I paid at RCBC Visayas Ave. Branch but it says:… NO VALID RECORD CAN BE FOUND FOR THE ENTERED RECEIPT. PLEASE VALIDATE YOUR Receipt. I have validated my receipt with the bank copy and it is correct. What is the error on this. After another attempt to review the details entered I got these : Errors -your request cannot be processed at this time. The site administrator has been alerted. -User could not be created. Please ensure first name and last name are entered as they are in your passport and after another day I tried logging in and an error appear; Error -I am locked for at least 72 hours as the admin suspect suspicious miltiple log ins on my account.

I hope I get a number to call for further inquiry.

try contacting the numbers here: http://cdn.ustraveldocs.com/ph/ph-main-contactus.asp

Hi may ann,any luck with you payment issue? I’m having the same issue. I paid this morning at RCBC around 10:30 am. Tried to complete my application process around 2:30 but got an error. Tried again around 3:30 and still the same. I tried phone (safari) and laptop (chrome) and no luck. 🙁

I tried Step 1 in How to Pay Online and it’s asking for my DS-160 confirmation number.. but I’m not in that step yet since I am paying first. I’m not sure what to enter there already, or should I just proceed to step 2

Try doing the step 2 nlng po 🙂 then go back to step 1

Hi. I paid the visa fee via pesonet and I am wondering where to find the receipt number.

yung reference number po yung i-use nyo po https://www.ustraveldocs.com/ph/ph-niv-bancnetonlinepayment.asp

Hi Lyza, What are the supporting documents needed to be submitted along with the renewal application? Do we need to submit, bank certs, travel itinerary, COE, etc? Appreciate your help. Thanks!

Thanks for the advise. Appreciate it!

Just the reference number? No need the 7777777?

thank you for this info. very helpful indeed !!!

im just wondering where you got the criteria to be eligible to the interview waiver, as i cant find it on the us embassy website, and how set in stone are these requirements? im particularly curious with the last one, which is about one’s visa application prior to the current, because my application was actually denied before i was granted a 10 year multiple visa. my visa is expiring on september. i visited the US once over the last 10 years.

looking forward to your inputs. thank you very much.

It’s in their website and included in the questionnaire.

can i ask what if ung step 7 di sya nag appear para makapag answer sa qualifications for interview waiver. pano po ang gagawin.

please check your answers from steps 1-6, like visa/type or visa class.

Hi. Is the US embassy accepting visa renewal now? I am qualified with the interview waiver program.

yes po, they have extended it until December 2021.

Hi Lyza. Thanks for the quick response. I thought they are not accepting renewals. So baka yung may face to face interview lang ang suspended for now no?

That is why it’s called interview-waiver program po, kasi wala ng interview as long as you are qualified for the renewal. For now, only selected pa yung may interview and it’s limited. Available appointments are on 2022 pa.

Thank you for your help! Will process my visa renewal via Dropbox next week.

TIP: When paying at RCBC, bring a photocopy of your passport. They will not accept payments without the passport photocopy! It’s a hassle because this is not mentioned anywhere in the visa application instructions.

Thank you for this RC! Great help!

Hi. My question is step 3- create an account in the registration

New User- after I fill in the email, name , password and encode the captcha letters to create an account it says—-

Errors -your request cannot be processed at this time. The site administrator has been alerted. -User could not be created. Please ensure first name and last name are entered as they are in your passport

What does this mean? I entered the first and last name as they are in my passport. I cannot create an account and continue the process to get my waiver interview letter.

Appreciate if you could help me on this and be enlightened. Thank you

Hi. Were you able to figure this out? I am having the same problem.

hello Camilla and Kaye! try forget password and it will send you a new password then use the Log In and use the password sent via email

then just fill out the necessary details on your account

I have a question. Can you create/generate a new Interview Waiver Confirmation Letter using the same MRVs and DS-160 application number?

Hi! I have payed the MRV fee. It was said in the instructions that after payment, I will receive an email for the next instructions after payment has been made. However, I received an email saying that my B1/B2 Voucher has expired. I can continue with the application by sending a payment confirmation along with the receipt number and pin. Now that is my concern, I don’t know what the PIN is.

hi. my current status now is administrative processing. is it normal for renewal thru dropbox? im now concerned. 🙁

Hello did you get your visa? How long did it stay in AP status? Thanks!

hi. what is the turn around time from cash payment til i can input it to the interview waiver confirmation. i encountered error message stating that “no valid record can be found for the entered receipt number” even if i already made an over the counter payment. tried several times then my account was locked for 72 hours. 🙁

it will depend on how you paid as well as what time – it will take between 4 hours to 24 hours or one day after 1:30 pm just wait for it to unlock since you were probably locked out due to reaching the maximum number of logins for a day

I am encountering the same situation. It’s been 21 hours since I paid on behalf of my mother.

check po the details or the RCBC account or wait lang po for tomorrow. If may problems pa, you can contact the US Embassy po.

Hi! I just received my visa 5 days after I sent my docs via 2go. I paid 450 to the delivery guy who brought my renewed visa. do we really have to pay again? I don’t remember paying before. And does it really take only 5 days to process renewal? I thought it would take longer so was surprised when it came back just 5 days later. Thanks.

hi! were you able to check the status of your application in the website? did you encounter “administrative processing”?

Hi Melissa, Can I ask what are the supporting docs you have submitted for the renewal through dropbox?

Hi, I already have my DS 160 printed and submitted and successfully registered on a site as instructed, and waiting until now for the waiver confirmation letter. Would want to know if I miss on something. .. there are no other instructions/steps to do to avail of the waiver. Appreciate your help on this. Hoping too that you are doing well and good. Thank you

Hi! How long did it take before you received the waiver confirmation? I have the same question as you. I’m already done with payment and DS-160. Will the letter show up in the Dashboard? Thanks!

Can i renew my US Visa even if is still valid till January 2022?

Hello! US Embassy received my visa 14Dec. However, document delivery information in the dashboard is still blank. Is it normal? Should I just wait for my passport via courier?

Hi Kitte, how long did it take before you got your passport back? I dropped my documents at 2GO last Dec 26, and the tracking update of 2GO indicated that the documents have been delivered to the US embassy on Dec 29. It’s now Jan 17 and I haven’t heard of an update yet from the embassy. The Document Delivery Information is still blank. Thanks.

Did you finally receive your visa? How long did it take?

Hoping you can help me with my concern. I am actually eligible with the Interview Waiver Program (already filled out the DS-160 and got the Waiver Letter), the problem is I’m not sure if there are any 2GO office open since Cebu is in ECQ, been trying to call also customer service but no avail. So will that affect my application? Is it possible to just send my documents once ECQ here is lifted? or does it need to be sent asap? since I’m done with the online and just left with sending the documents to US Embassy. I’m also worried cause if I don’t do it soon it’s gonna be more than 12 months since my visa expired.

Also I heard the appointments are cancelled, so can I still send my documents even though US Embassy in Manila are not accepting appointments now?

Thank you for your help and glad I found your website it is very helpful!

Good day, we are applying for the US Visa Interview Waiver Program (aka Drop Box Program) and we fulfill all the requirements and qualifications for this. Completing all the necessary requirements here, I can’t find the Dropbox Confirmation Letter box. I would like to ask for your help regarding this matter.

Have you already paid the visa fee and completed the DS-160 form?

COPYRIGHT DISCLAIMER: Many of the articles on Two Monkeys Travel Group are guest posts by a number of Approved Contributors and are hosted by Two Monkeys Travel Group. Approved Contributors control their own work and post freely to our site. This includes all text and images that they use within their own work. All contributors are instructed to follow internationally recognised copyright and intellectual property guidelines. Two Monkeys Travel Group takes its own responsibilities very seriously, so if you feel that any part of this work is abusive in any way, please send us an email so that we can investigate - [email protected]

DISCLOSURE: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links. So when you make a purchase we sometimes make a small commission, at no extra cost to you. The cost to you remains the same, sometimes even cheaper if we have negotiated a special deal for our readers.We use all of the companies we have listed here and that’s why they are in this list, but of course we need to keep Two Monkeys Travel Group running as well as it can, which is exactly what you’re helping with if you do decide to buy or book something through an affiliate link! If you have any more questions about the companies we use or any other companies you’re looking at, just email us and we’ll be happy to help. Please see our full disclaimer page for more information.

Written by Kach Umandap

Founder of Two Monkeys Travel Group. Since 2013, Kach has visited all the 7 continents (including Antarctica) and 151 countries using her Philippines Passport. In 2016, she bought a sailboat and went on sailing adventures with her two cats - Captain Ahab & Little Zissou in the Caribbean for 2 years. She now lives in Herceg Novi, Montenegro where she's enjoying her expat life and living on a gorgeous Stonehouse. She writes about her experiences traveling as a Filipina traveler with a PHL Passport. Also tips on backpacking trips, luxury hotel experiences, product reviews, sailing & adventure travel.

5 Reasons Why You Should Visit TeamLab Planets in Toyosu, Tokyo

Al hamra residence – my best stay in the uae, anavrin ras al khaimah – the perfect retreat for corporate junkies, where to stay in the gambia [best hotels and resorts in the gambia], 8 best things to do in the gambia, west africa, related posts, how to get a five year multiple entry schengen visa for filipino citizens, start up business in the philippines – how to register your business in dti, how to get a bank certificate and bank statement for your visa applications, comparison for income tax rates in the philippines – graduated it rates vs 8% it rate (with sample computations), previous post, guide to working holiday visa in europe – how to stay in europe for 1 to 2 years, how to apply for five year multiple entry south korea tourist visa for filipinos, subscribe to our newsletter.

Receive tips on how you can live a sustainable long-term travel lifestyle!

• First Name *
• Phone This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

變更語言 : Change to Traditional Chinese

Apply for a U.S. Visa

• Payment Options
• DS-160 Information
• Appointment Wait Times
• Photos and Fingerprints
• Visa Waiver Program
• Apply for a Visa
• Pay My Visa Fee
• Complete My DS-160
• Schedule My Appointment
• Change Document Delivery Address
• Track & Retrieve My Passport
• Apply for an Expedited Appointment
• Drop-off Service
• Application Refused Under INA
• Visa Information
• Check My Immigrant Visa Petition Status
• Immigrant Visa Wait Times
• Fiancé (e) Visas (K1 & K2)
• Returning Resident (SB-1) Visas
• Select Document Delivery Address
• AmCham Program
• Travel Coordinator
• Diplomatic and Government Officials
• Visas for Children
• American Institute in Taiwan
• Document Drop-Off Locations
• Passport/Visa Collection Locations
• Bank Locations
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Security Regulations
• Holidays and Closures
• Rights and Protections
• Helpful Links

You are here: Home / Waiver of Interview

Drop-Off Service (Interview Waiver)

On this page:

Important Notice

Qualifications, supporting documentation, how to apply, e visa electronic document submission.

Ensure you meet the qualifications before submitting your application for drop-off service. Include all required supporting documents for your visa type. You must include a photo following the requirements  here . If your photo was used on a prior visa or is older than six months your visa will be delayed. For H-1B, H-4, L-1, L-2, R-1, and R-2 applicants applying with a Taiwan passport, please include your money order fee payment consistent with  instructions  or you will be required to appear at AIT in person for an interview. Blanket L-1 applicants should also include a money order fee payment. Applicants renewing their E visa through Drop-off service must email their supporting documents to the AIT E Visa team at [email protected] between 2 and 4 weeks prior to dropping off their application.  

Students:   Apply for a visa as soon as you receive your I-20 form from your school. If you have your I-20 form, you may apply as early as one year in advance of your program start date. For all students, we recommend applying more than three months prior to your intended departure from Taiwan. Contact your school if you still do not have your I-20 form three months before your intended departure.

Drop-off visa services usually eliminate the need to come to AIT. The use of drop-off service does not guarantee visa issuance. Infrequently, drop-off applicants may still be required to appear for an in-person interview.

Drop-off visa applications are typically completed and returned to you within ten  business days (or fifteen to twenty business days for E visas.)

You may be eligible to apply for a U.S. visa by drop-off service based on any one of the following three criteria:

1, Age : Any application prior to your 14th birthday or after your 80th birthday.

2, Renewal : Renewing any prior nonimmigrant visa (including B visas) within the same visa class that is still valid or expired less than 48 months ago.

• For example: If you are applying for a B visa, and have an approved B visa that is still valid or expired within the last 48 months, you may be eligible for drop-off service.
• For E visa renewal applications, you may be eligible for drop-off service if you previously received a visa in the same visa class and you are continuing employment with the same company or employer.

3, Any Previous Nonimmigrant Visa (Except a B Visa) : Individuals applying for any nonimmigrant visa class who:

• previously interviewed for and received a nonimmigrant visa in any class (unless the only prior issued visa was a B visa); and
• are applying within 48 months of their most recent nonimmigrant visa’s expiration date.
• In order to qualify for drop-off service under this criteria, treaty E1 and E2 visa applicants should also demonstrate that the most recent E visa application submitted by the U.S. company owner or employee was approved by AIT.

      For example:

• If you are a first-time H-1B visa (or any visa class) applicant but previously interviewed for and received an F-1 visa (or any non-B visa) and your F-1 visa (most recent visa) is still valid or expired less than 48 months ago, you may be eligible to apply by drop-off service.
• If you are a first-time H-1B visa applicant (or any visa class) and previously interviewed for and received an F-1 visa (or any non-B visa) but your F-1 visa (most recent visa) expired more than 48 months ago, you do not qualify for drop-off service.
• If you are applying for a J-1 visa (or any visa class) and you previously interviewed for and received an F-1 visa (or any non-B visa) which expired more than 48 months ago and a B visa (most recent visa) which is still valid or expired less than 48 months ago, you may qualify for drop-off service.
• If you are applying for a B visa (or any visa class) and you had an F-1 visa (or any non-B visa) which is still valid or expired less than 48 months ago, you may qualify for drop-off service. 
• If you are applying for an F-1 visa (or any visa class) and the only visa you received previously was a B visa , you do  not qualify for drop-off service. 
• A prior ESTA travel does not qualify you for drop-off service.

Requirements for ALL Drop-Off Applications :

• You must be physically present in Taiwan at the time when your application is submitted to AIT.
• You must be a citizen or resident of Taiwan.
• If you previously applied for a U.S. visa or ESTA, your most recent application was approved.
• If your most recent application for a U.S. visa was refused, and not subsequently approved, or if your most recent ESTA application was denied, you must  schedule an appointment  for a visa interview.

If you do  not  qualify for drop-off service  schedule an appointment  for a visa interview.

E  Visas:

All E visa applicants must email required electronic supporting documents to the AIT E Visa team at  [email protected]  prior to dropping off your application. See instructions  here . AIT requests electronic supporting documents be emailed between 2 and 4 weeks in advance of dropping off your application. Failure to do so will delay your application processing. 

If you do  not  qualify for drop-off service,  schedule an appointment  for a visa interview. 

All drop-off service applicants should provide items in the following order:

• Unexpired passport and if not a Taiwan passport, photocopy of your Alien Resident Certificate (ARC).
• Passport containing the most recently issued U.S. visa (if applicable).
• Interview Waiver Confirmation Letter (see Step 5 below).
• DS-160 confirmation page for each applicant.
• One color photograph (5cmx5cm) taken  within the last six months and not used on a previous U.S. visa,  with a white or off-white background.
• Eyeglasses are not allowed. If using the photo from your passport, ensure it was taken within the last six months. See detailed photo requirements  here .
• Visa application fee receipt.
• Additional documents required for your visa category (see below)
• If you legally changed your name since your last visa application, please provide your Taiwan Household Registration Record in English (with detailed notes).
• If you were ever arrested or convicted for any offense or crime in any country, please provide the police record or court documents. 
• Please provide an English translation and a Taiwan Police Criminal Record Certificate.  

Additional Document Requirements by Category:  

• Business travelers: An invitation letter from your employer or the organization in the U.S.
• B-1 Domestic Employee: 
• Employment contract, signed by both you and your employer.  A sample contract is available in English  here . See additional information  here   regarding contract requirements.
• A copy of your employer's visa or other method they will use to enter the United States (their Visa Waiver country passport or U.S. passport)
• C-1/D Visas
• A letter from your employer verifying your position.
• For principal E-1 and E-2 applicants: A completed DS-156E Parts I, II, and III
• For E-3 principal applicants and dependents, an approved Labor Condition Application (LCA), which the U.S. employer obtains from the Department of Labor on behalf of the principal applicant.
• If there is any ownership change, ownership structure information including supporting documents.
• Electronic document submission: Follow instructions  here  to send required electronic documents by email between 2 and 4 weeks prior to dropping off your application. It’s not necessary for applicants to print and provide the documents required in the electronic submission form; only those documents listed explicitly above are required to be printed.
• F, M, and J Visas
• If attending a masters or doctorate program, or conducting research: A copy of your most recent resume or CV listing your education and professional experiences.
• For F-1, F-2, M-1, M-2 applicants: A copy of your current I-20 signed/endorsed properly.
• For J-1, J-2 applicants: the original form of your current DS-2019.
• J visa Trainees and Interns should also provide the DS-7002 form.
• If a SEVIS fee payment is required, your I-901 SEVIS Fee receipt.
• H, Individual L, O, P, Q, and R   Visas
• A copy of your current I-797 approval notice.
• A copy of your most recent resume or CV listing your education and professional experiences.
• H-1B, H-4, Individual L-1, Individual L-2, and Blanket L-2 Visas: Taiwan Passport Applicants ONLY
• If applying with a Taiwan passport, you must include a money order (also known as bank draft or 美金匯票) issued by a local bank in Taiwan within the past 5 months payable to  American Institute in Taiwan  for  U.S dollars $54.00 .  As of June 17, 2023, the  reciprocity fee  is  USD 54.00   per applicant .
• Blanket L-1 Visas
• If you are applying for an L-1 visa under a blanket petition, you must include a money order (also known as bank draft or 美金匯票) issued by a local bank in Taiwan within the past 5 months payable to  American Institute in Taiwan  for  U.S dollars $500.00 .  More information about this Fraud Prevention and Detection Fee can be found here .
• You should also provide: one copy of your  I-129S  issued by your employer and one copy of the I-797 issued to your employer by USCIS.  If any field of your I-129S form refers to an addendum or attachment (such as "Proposed Job Title and Duties") please ensure that you include the addendum or attachment with your document packet.  Place the I-129S form and the addendum or attachment on top of the I-797 approval notice.  ONE copy only.  These documents should NOT exceed 30 pages in total.  Use a paper clip to attach these documents together.   (Do NOT staple or put them in sheet protectors.) You will need to present the approved I-129S form to the immigration officer when travelling to the United States. We strongly recommend that you make a copy of the form after you receive it with your visa.
• R-1 and R-2 Visas: Taiwan Passport Applicants ONLY
• If applying with a Taiwan passport, you must include a money order (also known as bank draft or 美金匯票) issued by a local bank in Taiwan within the past 5 months payable to  American Institute in Taiwan  for  U.S dollars $37.00 .  As of June 17, 2023, the  reciprocity fee  is  USD$37.00   per applicant .
• TN   Visas
• A contract or letter of employment in the United States - To show that you have a job offer, provide a contract or employment letter from your employer in the United States confirming your upcoming employment in one of the professional occupations listed in Appendix 1306.d.1 of NAFTA Chapter 16. The letter should also include:
• Your purpose of entry;
• A detailed description of your anticipated business activities or job responsibilities;
• Your anticipated length of stay in the United States;
• Your educational qualifications or appropriate credentials demonstrating professional status;
• Evidence of your compliance with Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regulations and/or state laws; and
• Arrangements for your pay.
• Documentation proving that you meet the minimum education and/or work experience requirements set forth in Appendix 1603.d.1 of NAFTA chapter 16 – Evidence of education would include degrees, diplomas, certificates, professional licenses, and /or membership in professional organizations. To demonstrate your experience, present letters from former employers. If you were self-employed, provide your business records.
• Dependent E-1, E-2, E-3D, F-2, M-2, J-2, I, H-4, L-2, O-3, P-4, R-2, TD: Spouse or Child of a Principal Applicant
• Proof of relationship to principal applicant in English version (For example: Taiwan National ID holders, please provide marriage certificate or household registration record with detailed notes; Non-Taiwan National ID holders, please provide marriage certificate or birth certificate.)
• If a spouse or child is applying separately from the principal applicant, include a copy of the principal applicant’s visa.  If the principal applicant changed status or extended status in the U.S. or is exempt from visa requirements, include a copy of the I-797 approval notice or I-94 record of admission issued to the principal applicant.
• H-4, L-2, O-3, P-4, and R-2 applicants should also provide a copy of the principal applicant’s current I-797 approval notice. 
• Children Under 14 years Old
• A copy of Taiwan Household Registration Record in English (listing entire immediate family with detailed notes)
• Copies of the parents’ passport biographic information pages OR national ID cards.
• Copies of the parents' current and/or previous U.S. visas, if applicable.

Step 1: Choose your visa type

Check here for a list of all available  visa types . 

Step 2: Complete the DS-160 online application

Complete the  online visa application . Anytime you make a new application, you must complete a new DS-160. Each applicant, including children, must have their own DS-160 application. Be sure to read the  Guidelines for Completing the DS-160 Form  carefully.   

Official or Diplomatic Visas and U.S. Federal Government Sponsored J Visa Applicants:  Applicants for  diplomatic or official visas and (J) visa applicants participating in a program sponsored by the U.S. Federal Government  do NOT need to complete additional steps below. Click the respective link for further instructions.  

Step 3: Create your profile

Create your profile in the registration system  and choose your passport delivery method.  

• Free of Charge and Fastest Delivery : Drop off/Pick up your passport and documents at the SF Express Taipei  Neihu Distribution Center 
• Address: No.21, Ln. 140, Xing’ai Rd., Neihu Dist., Taipei City 114, Taiwan
• Drop off/pick up at  any other SF Express courier locations :  TWD280  per passport/documents.
• For return delivery of your passport and application materials, you can select delivery to  your designated (home/office) address :  TWD320  per passport/documents. * These delivery fees are charged by the courier company and will be collected in cash by courier staff when you drop off, pick up, or receive your documents. Exact change required. Please do NOT put money inside your document package. You can have a representative assist you to drop off, pick up, or receive your passport/documents on your behalf. See this page for more details. You will receive an email notification and text message when your passport is ready for pick-up or delivery. 

Choose “New Application/Schedule appointment” on the left side. Answer the drop-off service questions which will ensure your eligibility to apply for a visa by drop-off.  

Step 4: Pay your MRV visa application fee

After you answer the questions, you will be prompted to pay the visa application fee. After your payment receipt is activated, go back to your online profile to continue the process. For more information about paying your MRV visa fee click  here . 

Step 5: Gather your documents

If you are eligible to apply for a visa without an interview, the registration system will ask you to print out the “Interview Waiver Confirmation Letter.” Gather the  supporting documents  and put them in order as listed above. Please do NOT staple or use sheet protectors, please use paperclips if attaching items together. 

E visa applicants must also follow instructions here to send required electronic documents by email between 2 and 4 weeks prior to dropping off their application. It’s not necessary for applicants to print and provide the documents required in the electronic submission form; only those documents listed explicitly here are required to be printed. 

Step 6: Drop off your application

You or your representative should drop off your supporting documents at a  designated document delivery location for delivery to AIT. 

Step 7: Receive your documents

Generally, within ten  business days your passport and supporting documents will be returned to you by the document delivery option you previously chose (Step 3).  E visa drop-off application processing time is fifteen to twenty business days.  Please note that this fifteen to twenty business days does not include the two week advance electronic submission.

• If approved, your passport will contain your visa. 
• If an interview is required, the courier will deliver your passport and documents with a 221g refusal letter.  Please follow the instructions on the letter to schedule an appointment for your visa interview.

You can  check your visa application status  using your DS-160 barcode. You can track the status of your passport delivery using your  passport number  or your  tracking number . Please contact the call center or SF Express if you have questions about the delivery or pick up of your documents. 

Applicants renewing their E visa through Drop-off service must email their supporting documents to the AIT E Visa team at [email protected] between 2 and 4 weeks prior to dropping off their application. Failure to do so will delay your application processing. Submissions that do not meet the below requirements will also delay your application processing.

Electronic submission requirements:

• Subject line:  Please enter this information in the subject line: DB/planned drop-off month and year/the applicant’s name (in English as listed on passport)/and passport number For example: DB/Jun 2023/CHEN, Mei Li/123456789
• Email content:  Please enter the following information in your email content. - Name of U.S. Enterprise, Business, or Company - Has anyone from this U.S. company ever been issued a treaty E-1 or E-2 visa? If yes, please provide name and date the most recent E visa was issued. - If more than one applicant from your family is applying together on the same day, please list all applicants’ names, passport numbers, and your relationship. - Your Taiwan phone number.  (We may contact you via email or telephone if additional information is required.  Please check your email before dropping off your application.) - Your company’s point of contact information.  (Name of person in charge of E visa applications/ Taiwan  phone number/email address)
• Attachment limit:  Your submission may not exceed 70 pages in total (supporting documents with more than 70 pages will not be accepted for electronic submission).  The 70-page limit is the sum of all pages in the email package; It is not a per file limitation.
• Attachment format:  Attach one file per Exhibit listed below (the only acceptable file formats are the following: DOC, DOCX, PDF).  We do not accept zip or online shared folders or links.  Each exhibit file size must be 1.9MB or less.  Do not combine different exhibit files together.
• Attachment name: Each attachment file must be named according to its Exhibit . Example: For E-1, you must submit 9 files , named Exhibit A- Company Summary, Exhibit B- Company Letter, etc.  For E-2, you must submit 10 files , named Exhibit A- Company Summary, Exhibit B- Company Letter, etc. For E-3, you must submit 3 files , named Exhibit A- DS160, Exhibit B- LCA, Exhibit C-Applicant Information.  For dependents, you must submit 2 files , named Exhibit A- DS160, Exhibit B- Applicant Information.
• Email submission: Email these attachments to ONE EMAIL to [email protected] between 2 and 4 weeks prior to dropping off your application. 

Please review your email submission before sending it to ensure that all required and supporting documents have been submitted with sufficient resolution and are readable.   We may contact you for additional information, if needed. 

Required Electronic Documents for Treaty Trader (E-1) Visa

Required electronic documents for treaty investor (e-2) visa, required electronic documents for australian in specialty occupation (e-3) visa.

(Documents must be in PDF format when submit electronically; each of the below file size must be 1.9MB or less; do not combine different exhibit files together )

Required Electronic Documents for Dependents

© CGI Federal Inc.

• NIV Information
• NIV Application
• Apply for Expedited Visa Processing
• Immigrant Visas
• Local Visa Programs
• General Information

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked