Current and Previous Issues

Dear readers of the Consular Chronicles,

Welcome once again to our quarterly publication. As always we have a number of interesting articles designed to keep you updated on the changes and improvements being made to the way we do business. Many of the changes that have taken place in 2002 are in response to the need to tighten security requirements concerning visitors to the United States. We are constantly aware of our country’s history and traditional desire to welcome legitimate visitors and immigrants, but following the tragic events of 9/11, we now scrutinize more carefully those we let into our country.

Since September 2001, consular officers worldwide have implemented a series of new procedures that effect each visa application we process. This translates into higher labor costs, and higher equipment costs – especially for sophisticated computer databases that must be continuously maintained and updated. As a result, the Department of State increased the nonimmigrant visa application fee worldwide for all nonimmigrant visa applicants. This new fee of $100, which took effect November 1, 2002, is necessary to cover the higher costs of processing each applicant – regardless of whether a visa is issued.

The good news is that with the coming holiday season and the New Year ahead, the changes that we have made should contribute to a brighter and more secure future for all.

I wish you all a happy holiday season and a healthy and prosperous New year!


Michael D. Kirby
Consul General