U.S. Embassy Announces New Appointment System for Non-Immigrant Visa Interviews

The U.S. Embassy to the Democratic Republic of the Congo is pleased to announce improvements in the processing of nonimmigrant visa applications. Beginning May 1, 2009, all appointments for non-immigrant visa interviews must be made online, a method that promises to be faster, safer, and more convenient for the Embassy’s customers. The system is free though there is a still an application fee of $131 to be paid on the morning of the interview.

On April 16, 2009, detailed instructions on the new appointment request process will be available at http://kinshasa.usembassy.gov/ 

If you already have a scheduled visa appointment prior to May 1, 2009, there is no need to a make a new appointment.

General Questions:

How do I apply for an appointment?

Please go to the US Embassy website at http://kinshasa.usembassy.gov/ under “Applying for a Visa.” Start the process at the application page. Complete and print the online Electronic Visa Application Form. Print out the third page containing the bar code. You will be directed to the on-line application schedule where you will select your interview date and time.

How long does it take to get an appointment?

You should schedule your appointment two to four weeks in advance of your proposed date of travel. The wait time varies from 2 days to several weeks and increases during times of heavy demand. Click here for the current waiting times.

How much does it cost to make an appointment?

Scheduling an appointment is free. On the day of your appointment, you will be asked to pay a $131 visa application fee. If your request for a visa is approved, a one-month visa costs $150 and a three-month visa costs $250 for Congolese passport holders.

Is the application form available in Lingala and French?

No, the application is in English, although instructions on how to complete the form will be available in Lingala and French.

How can I get an appointment for an emergency?

Please follow the instructions above for scheduling an appointment. If you need to expedite your appointment for medical, business, or educational reasons, please send an email to Amembassyconsul@state.gov to explain the nature of your emergency. We will respond to you within 24 hours.

The application asks for a receipt number. What should I write?

Please use the number 1001.