How to apply

Step 3: Non-immigrant visa appointments

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You will need an appointment to enter the Consulate General that serves your area to apply for your visa. There is no walk-in visa service.

Most applicants applying for a U.S. visa must appear in person for an interview at the U.S. Consular Office serving your state. To schedule your appointment use the VisaPoint service. To use this service, you must purchase a Personal Identification Number (PIN) online by using a credit card. The PIN will allow you to access visa information and to schedule non-immigrant visa appointments for up to five family members residing at the same address. For more information please consult the VisaPoint FAQ.

Children under 14 years of age and adults over 80 years of age who are also Australian citizens or Permanent Residents, and official and diplomatic visitors may not need to appear in person. If you are applying in Sydney, read about visiting the Consulate.

Please do not contact the Consulate to inquire about the progress of your visa application, as we are unable to provide this service.

Please see our telephone information page for general advice on visas (charges apply).

Still have questions? See our non-immigrant visas frequently asked questions.

The U.S. Consulate General accepts no liability for any documents lodged as part of a visa application. It is your responsibility to use a secure means of sending your application to us and for ensuring its safe return to you.

Note: You should never pay for travel arrangements (e.g., airfare, hotels) without having a visa in your possession. The U.S. Consulate General accepts no responsibility if you do so. We are able to issue most visas within two business days of interview; however, we are unable to guarantee the issuance of a U.S. visa before a fixed travel date. You risk significant financial losses if you ignore this advice.

Last update: Friday, 12 June 2009 GMT+1000