CAIRO: The American Embassy in Egypt has established a new set of rules and regulations for non-immigrant visa applications. According to a statement from the embassy, they have started using a new system for the application forms for non-immigrant visas, instead of the electronic system that had been applied. The new model will be available in January and will depend entirely on the Internet. The use of the new system will become mandatory for all applicants this coming March. It should be noted that the system is also implemented in at least 24 American Embassies and consulates worldwide. According to a press release issued by the embassy, it explained that the new form is available on the Internet in a number of languages, including Arabic, but that all applicants must fill their data using the Internet form in English only. The move online comes as other embassies in Egypt and across the world have already employed a similar feature. Here in Cairo, if an Egyptian applies for a British visa, they are required to do so online, then approach a third-party company to submit the application, where it is approved of being complete before being sent to the Embassy. No direct contact with the British Embassy occurs between the applicant and a British national. For some, this has been frustrating, as it means the interview process that had been a part of the UK visa procedures has been removed in favor of a third pary overseerer. However, it has cut down waiting times drastically. In many cases, a visa is now approved within 24 hours. The American Embassy said they hope this will speed up visa applications in order to benefit those applying. BM
