To apply for a U.S. visa while in Japan, you’ll need to follow these general steps:
### 1. Determine the Visa Type
1. Work Authorization:
- Citizens and Permanent Residents: If you are a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), you have the right to work in the United States without any additional authorization.
- Non-Citizens: If you are not a citizen or permanent resident, you typically need authorization to work. This usually comes in the form of a work visa sponsored by an employer or other types of authorization such as refugee or asylum status.
2. Complete the DS-160 Form
Go to the Consular Electronic Application Center and complete the DS-160 form. This form collects your personal information, purpose of visit, and other relevant details. After completing the form, you will receive a confirmation page and a barcode.
3. Pay the Visa Application Fee
Pay the visa application fee via the U.S. Embassy’s designated payment methods. Fees vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for.
4. Schedule a Visa Interview
Visit the [U.S. Embassy in Japan](https://jp.usembassy.gov/visas/) website to schedule a visa interview. You will need your DS-160 confirmation barcode and the receipt number from your visa fee payment to schedule an appointment.
5. Gather Required Documents
Prepare the required documents for your visa interview. Commonly required documents include:
– Passport valid for travel to the United States.
– DS-160 confirmation page with barcode.
– Visa application fee payment receipt.
– Passport-sized photograph meeting [U.S. visa photo requirements] visa-information-resources/photos.html).
– Any additional documents specific to your visa type (e.g., invitation letter, proof of funds, employment letter).
6. Attend the Visa Interview
Arrive at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate on the scheduled date and time for your visa interview. Bring all required documents, including your passport and DS-160 confirmation page. Be prepared to answer questions about your intended stay in the United States and provide any requested documents.
7. Await Visa Processing
After your interview, the consular officer will inform you if your visa application is approved, denied, or pending additional administrative processing. If approved, your passport with the visa stamp will be returned to you via the selected delivery method.
Additional Tips:
– **Be honest and concise** during your interview.
– **Be prepared** to explain your ties to Japan and your purpose of travel to the United States.
– **Follow all instructions** provided by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
For specific details and to begin your application process, visit the [U.S. Embassy in Japan’s visa section](https://jp.usembassy.gov/visas/) and follow their guidelines.