New rules for the launch of non-immigrant visas for China to the United States

> New rules for the launch of non-immigrant visas for China to the United States The U.S. Embassy in China announced on the 20th that in order to simplify the application process for non-immigrant visas to the United States, the U.S. Embassy in China and visa-issuing agencies...

> New rules for the launch of non-immigrant visas for China to the United States The U.S. Embassy in China announced on the 20th that in order to simplify the application process for non-immigrant visas to the United States, the U.S. Embassy in China and all consulates that issue visas will implement a new visa appointment, fee payment, and document delivery system to facilitate applicants to schedule their visa interview appointments, pay visa processing fees, and track visa processing status. According to Gary Locke, the U.S. Ambassador to China, starting from March 16, applicants only need to pay the existing unchanged visa processing fee of US$160 for most non-immigrant visa types. Previously, applicants had to pay additional fees for booking a visa interview and returning their passport, in addition to processing fees. Applicants can also use the new online system to make visa interview appointments and check the status of their applications. Visa applicants can also continue to use the call center to make appointments or ask any relevant questions. This service will no longer be charged starting from March 16. Also, if you cancel your reservation for any reason, you will need to pay again and make a new reservation. After March 16, if you miss your first appointment, you can reschedule for free; you can also check your passport status by email in the future. In addition, this new system allows applicants to obtain their passports at more than 900 CITIC Bank branches in China. Under the new appointment process, U.S. embassies and consulates will continue to provide nonimmigrant visa renewal submission services for most applicants who are eligible to renew without an in-person interview. In 2013, the U.S. Embassy in China will also open a new office in Wuhan to provide visa services. Locke said that the visa changes can better serve the Chinese people, significantly shorten the appointment time, and process visa applications more conveniently and faster. The recent average wait time for a visa appointment is two to four days, but that’s not enough. They will continue to improve their work and allow more people to study, travel and work in the United States. They strive to allow applicants to spend less time waiting after arriving at the embassy or consulate. According to reports, the United States is committed to meeting the growing demand for visas to the United States. In fiscal year 2012, the U.S. Embassy in China processed more than 1.34 million non-immigrant visa applications, a year-on-year increase of 34%. Despite this, the average wait time for an interview appointment was only five days over the past year. The U.S. Embassy in China stated that the new reservation, fee payment and passport return systems are just part of the continuous improvement of services to the Chinese traveling public.