Applying for a US visa can be an overwhelming task, primarily because of the documentation requirements. In recent years, the US government has implemented stringent background verification procedures to ensure national security.

One of the steps in this process is fingerprinting which is mandatory for most visa categories. In this article, we’ll discuss all the necessary documents that you need to provide for fingerprinting as part of your US visa application.

What is Fingerprinting?

Fingerprinting is a process of taking an applicant’s biometric data, specifically their ten fingerprints, for identification and background verification. This process helps the US government verify an applicant’s identity, check for any criminal records, and ensure that the applicant is not listed on any watch lists.

What Documents are Required for Fingerprinting?

When you attend your scheduled fingerprinting appointment, you need to carry the following documents:

1. DS-160 Confirmation Page:

This is a critical component of your visa application, and it contains your personal information, travel details, and visa purpose. You must carry a printed copy of the DS-160 confirmation page with you to the appointment.

2. Valid Passport:

A valid passport is a mandatory document for any US visa application. You must bring it with you to the appointment. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the planned duration of your stay.

3. Appointment Confirmation Letter:

You will receive an appointment confirmation letter after successfully scheduling your fingerprinting appointment. This letter contains important details such as the date, time, and location of your appointment.

4. Visa Fee Payment Receipt:

You need to pay the US visa fee before attending your appointment. The payment receipt confirms that you have paid your fee and are eligible for your visa interview. Carry a printed copy of the payment receipt to your fingerprinting appointment.

5. Additional Documents:

Some visa categories may require additional documents for fingerprinting, such as employment letters, academic transcripts, or bank statements. It’s essential to check the specific requirements of your visa category and carry all necessary documents when attending the fingerprinting appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does it take to get the fingerprinting done?

The fingerprinting process is swift and usually takes under 30 minutes. However, wait times at the fingerprinting center may vary depending on the number of applicants present on the day of your appointment.

2. Should I bring all original documents to the appointment?

Yes, it’s always advisable to carry all original documents with you to the fingerprinting appointment. However, if you’ve already submitted original documents as part of your visa application, carrying a copy of those documents should suffice.

3. Can someone accompany me to the fingerprinting appointment?

Generally, only the applicant is allowed inside the fingerprinting center. However, some centers may allow the applicant to be accompanied by a family member, attorney, or interpreter. You must confirm this with the US embassy or consulate that is processing your visa application.

4. Do children need to provide fingerprints too?

Yes, all applicants, irrespective of age, must undergo fingerprinting. However, children aged below 14 years may submit their parents’ fingerprints.

5. Can I reschedule my fingerprinting appointment?

Yes, in case you cannot attend your scheduled fingerprinting appointment, you can reschedule it. You must log in to your US visa application account and select the “reschedule appointment” option.

Key Takeaways

• Fingerprinting is a mandatory step in the US visa application process.
• You need to carry several documents, such as a valid passport and appointment confirmation letter, to your fingerprinting appointment.
• You must check specific visa category requirements before attending your appointment.
• Additional documents like employment letters, academic transcripts, or bank statements may be required for specific visa categories.
• Children aged 14 years and below may submit their parents’ fingerprints.

In conclusion, fingerprinting is an essential component of the US visa application process, and you must take it seriously. Follow the guidelines given in this article, and carry all necessary documents to your fingerprinting appointment. This will streamline your application process and increase your chances of a visa approval.