Ask the Consul

Periodically, the Consular Section posts a question and answer relating to a particular consular issue, whether about visas or services to American citizens. Readers may submit questions of general interest to the e-mail box usconsular.budapest@state.gov, and the Consular Section will select one or create a composite of several to address issues of concern to the public.

Question for June 2005:

Why should I bring a copy of the visa/green card/passport of the person I plan to visit in the U.S.?

Answer:

While each visa application is evaluated on its own merits, officers may still take into consideration whether or not the person you plan to visit is in the U.S. legally. Having proof of the inviter's legal status in the U.S. will help your case for a visa, as well as reduce the chance of being asked to return for another interview after you have gathered more documents.

Previous Questions:

• I'm not planning to travel until several months from now. Should I apply for my visa now? Why? (March 2005) - Answer
  
  
• What is the Electronic Visa Application Form (EVAF) and how is it different from the old form? Why should I use the electronic form? (October 2004) - Answer
  
  
• I have heard that it is very difficult for a Hungarian to obtain a U.S. visa. Is this true? (July 2004) - Answer
  
  
• Since Hungary is now a member of the European Union, why do I need a visa to visit the United States? After all, British, French and German citizens can travel to the U.S. visa free. (June 2004) - Answer
  
  
• I recently received a 10-year tourist visa but my friend got a tourist visa that he can use only once. What can we do in the United States on our tourist visas and what is the difference between our visas? (April 2004) - Answer

Last updated: 06/28/2005