Embassy & Consulate US Visa Interview Reviews 2023

Overall the experience in Bangkok was smooth. They did not love that we had origionally stated that we wanted to do our appointment in Paris, and this caused a delay of a couple of hours. If picking it up from a post office select Rong Muang for the fasted turnaround.
- Ben (about 1 year ago)

1. my appointment was moved due to "unforeseen circumstances " no explanation, no choice in future appointment. I had to reschedule my travel to attend appointment. Though On the day off things went pretty smoothly 2. There was no update on the day when the consulate officer said the Passport would be returned with stamp. I called, emailed, revisited the embassy with no information or clarity on when i would get passport back, my option was to take it back without stamping and not goto US or silently put up with it. The wait times for non residents are still over 60 days, though the website says quicker. Avoid this place if possible, atleast getting your passport back after approval should not be such a hassle where you're living in limbo and increasing your costs by changing flights and accommodation.
- ND (about 10 months ago)

We arrived at 9:10 am for our E3 Renewal 9:30 am appointment. The initial checkpoint is outside and there were three people ahead of us, we waited there for about 45 minutes and as the 8.30 am appointments started to leave, they brought us in. Great security staff and very friendly, did the usual check-in, left belongings in provided lockers, and then given a lanyard and allowed to make our way up to the office unescorted with instruction to follow the white line once we got to the top of the ornate steps. The embassy building is visually stunning and for a brief moment we thought we were about to enter this heritage 1860s building but alas the white line leads around the back to a much newer building that houses the visa processing room. Here we were met with 4 bank teller-style windows and a slightly enclosed area that served as an interview room. We sat down and very swiftly a staff member beckoned us to window number 3, they asked our names, took our passports, photos, our paperwork and we were asked a few basic questions Then we say down again and about 30 minutes later they called us for fingerprints and then 20 minutes later we had our interview with a 2nd member of staff. We did our fingerprints again, I was asked a very brief high-level what my job entailed, I was then handed back about 70 pages of the 74 I prepared, they smiled and said there was no way they were going to read all of that. Then after some brief typing they said we were approved and our passports would be back within a week and we were dismissed! Pros: Great staff, very friendly and I could see very patient with some of the others there that had not prepared as well we were, Relatively swift considering there were multiple 9.30 am appointments and only one pair of staff servicing them all. US Consulate cat came to say hello whilst we were waiting to go in 🙂 Cons: Given it is all open plan you hear everyone else, and we heard very clearly that 2 people ahead of us have their requested visas denied so may be worth preparing people for that just in case they rattle easily. No parking so you need to plan, we did a drive-by Sunday and found a street relatively close by which we used. One thing to note is masks are mandatory but not provided, we saw a few people turned away at the gate and told to go and buy some and return swiftly. All in all, it took about 2 hours and I would highly recommend this location.
- Trevor (about 1 year ago)

Don't take any electronics with you, except your mobile phone, which will need to be turned off and not used at all inside the consulate. Its a 3-step process - reception, fee-paying and interview
- Josie (about 9 months ago)

Interviewer said printing & passport return was taking 7 business days but it only took 3 days.
- Darryn (about 10 months ago)

Loved the visa experience in Barbados. I booked mid march for a May appointment, there was lots of availability when I booked. I arrived in Bridgetown on the Monday for a Tuesday 8am appointment. My taxi driver from the airport ended up being my driver for the whole trip, this seems like a very normal thing to happen here. I got to the consulate around 7:45, there was a line but it all moved pretty quickly. They will hold any small electronics for you and give you a tag to retrieve them as you exit. They are not super used to E3s so they used a checklist to ask me questions but didn't ask to see any of my supporting documentation. I was out of the embassy by 8:30. There is no wifi in the surrounding area outside the embassy so I had to ask someone to call my driver. They have a white sheet of paper now that seems to have the correct details for collecting your passport. Later on Tuesday evening I checked my status and it had changed to issued. Thursday morning I still hadn't received a tracking number so I decided to just go to DHL and check. They said they didn't have my passport. Later that night I got my tracking number and after I looked at the details it seemed as though my passport was there... I probably should have waited to check in the afternoon. The DHL line is the most waiting you will do, bring a book and some water. Friday morning I picked up my passport and I am flying back to NYC on Saturday. As for Barbados, I am a young woman, heavily tattooed, and what I believe to be obviously gay. I got a lot of male attention. An uncomfortable amount. I couldn't have a quiet drink without a man coming up to me. That being said I would totally come back just maybe with a friend. It would have been nice to have an ally.
- Lauren (about 5 months ago)

8am appointment on Tuesday, everyone from 7:45am to 8:15am let in at once around 7:45am. I got close to the front and was out via 8:15am. Efficient process - case officer only asked to briefly see the letter from my employer and some pay stubs. Status changed to approve immediately, then changed to issued the following day. Didn’t get a tracking number so just turned up at 3pm at the DHL. The older woman was turning people away without a tracking number but I made sure I was served by the younger lady and she went to check when I showed her my ID. It was there and I picked it up. The actual tracking email arrived after that at 11pm in the evening. Would definitely recommend Barbados. Only bad part is the queue at the DHL.
- Dave (about 4 months ago)

Great experience at the Embassy. Overall took about 2.5 hours start to finish. Recommend arriving at least 30 mins early as they'll take you in with earlier groups. Only had to show my LCA and job offer letter. Status changed to approved immediately. Passport took a little longer to come back as the Embassy shut for a few days due to the island being on a hurricane alert. Pick-up at DHL was quick (15 mins), recommend going in the morning. Echoing a comment below, if travelling as a solo female you will get a lot of unwanted attention from local men. It is safe during the day but be more aware of yourself at night and get a bus/taxi back to your accommodation.
- Lauren (about 3 months ago)

I was getting an E3-D (spouse) visa done. I had an 8:30am appointment on Monday - they take you in batches according to appointment time. When I went there was only a small shade and chairs that was full so I recommend wearing a hat and bringing water because you may be in the sun for 45 mins. Their process was kind of slow honestly - after you get brought in you wait in a line for someone to check you in and you put your items in a locker, then you wait in a line to go through security and into a waiting room. Then another waiting room, a short line to do a basic check, then another line to do the actual 'interview'. The interview was very quick - maybe because I was getting a spouse visa so just asked to see my spouse's visa, LCA and marriage certificate. Process all up took about 2 hours - honestly I think I've had better experiences in Sydney. It switched to Approved almost immediately however it didn't switch to Issued until Friday afternoon. I did not get a tracking link but thought I would take my chance at DHL on the Monday since I was due to fly out on Wed. I do not recommend this - I waited at DHL for 1 hr only to be told they did not have my passport and to wait for the tracking link. They did give me the number and extension to call the DHL to ask in advance so I would say to call them first if you haven't received a tracking link. I ended up extending my trip because they still didn't have it the day before my flight. Ended up getting a tracking link on Tuesday night (8 days after my interview). I think I would have been more comfortable booking 2 weeks. All in all I enjoyed my trip to Barbados - there are worse places to be stuck - but I'm not sure I would go again to do my visa. As people have mentioned, you will get attention as a woman traveling alone but I never felt unsafe and everyone was really friendly.
- Melissa (about 3 months ago)

- Appointments were available 3 days in advance - Google Maps locations are incorrect (US Embassy location will take you to the back of the building, DHL location is a few houses down the road) - Get to your appointment 1+ hours early, wear sunscreen, bring a hat + water + book - Make sure you bring a physical passport photo with your hair tucked behind your ears - You should budget to stay ~10 days just in case it takes a bit longer to get your visa back. Barbados is beautiful and there's no major time difference, book a place with A/C and enjoy the amazing beaches + food 🙂 - Be prepared for them to ask you about any direct family members you have in the US, what their immigration status is, how they moved to the US - When you go to DHL to pick up your passport, also go as early as possible to avoid waiting in line and bring a hat + water
- Jacquie (about 13 days ago)

This is my second time coming to Bridgetown, and it was just as good as the first. This time the wait time between the interview and getting my passport back was considerably longer, but I have a feeling it was because of the time of year. it took about 8 business days, so plan to stay here for the entire required wait time. Be ready to be hot, they do their best to keep you in the shade, but sometimes there are just too many people. It helps to show up very early to your appointment as they take in big amounts of people at once. Once you get inside it's very organized considering how many people there were. You'll line up 3 times, once to go inside, once to get fingerprinted and the last to do your interview. Got my passport back very easily at the DHL, this is very simple as they have a special line for ppl picking up visas.
- Paz (about 1 month ago)

I selected Brussels as it had the shortest wait time in relation to my location in London. The team at the US embassy in Brussels are super friendly and really helpful. Had an 8am appointment on a Thursday, got there at 7:45 and there was a line down the block. Thankfully they prioritised and let anyone in with an 8am appointment first. They asked for all the required documentation but was a very quick interview and was out by 8:30. Passport was available for pickup on Saturday (despite them saying it would take 4 days) from their courier depot in Vilvoorde. Took about 40 mins taxi ride from the city, and I advise you ask your taxi or Uber to wait for you as it really is in the middle of nowhere so getting one back is a bit challenging.
- Emily (about 1 year ago)

Extremely straightforward and easy. The accommodation was quite expensive at the time as it was short notice, I stayed at the Meininger Hotel/Hostel which was great. I chose to get an Uber to the Couriers which is approx 45 mins from the City Center. Cost 80 euros but was worth it considering the bad reviews regarding courier delivery. All in all this was a straight forward experience.
- Niall (about 1 year ago)

I want to caveat that I have always done visa renewals in Dubai because it's where my family lives, so maybe that helped. I booked in early July for an end of August appointment. A month before the interview, it was bumped another 2 weeks to mid Sep.
- Wajma (about 1 year ago)

Very simple process, staff is very friendly, I would recommend to renew here
- Bhavin (about 5 years ago)

We were asked to mail in our passports and documents (no mention of an interview), and about 2.5 weeks later we were asked to appear for an interview. Now the earliest appointment we could get was more than 10 days away. This led us to rework our travel arrangements and stay for 2 weeks longer than planned in Dublin. The interview was short and simple and our visas were approved. We waited another week to get our passports. All in all an expensive and elaborate process.
- Sankar (about 1 year ago)

Bit of a long one this but hopefully it provides some useful insight for any edge cases. I applied on 19th Nov and was asked to just courier in my documents which surprised me. I think it's because the system allows for interview waiver if you've had a visa before, however mine was a J-1 on a very old Irish passport, not the Australian one through which I was applying. Couriered in documents on the 24th, delivered on the 25th (I would have done so sooner but I was returning from Spain to family home and you 'must be in the country when you apply' although there is contradictory information in some updates). Application status on CEAC site changed to ‘received’ on Thurs 1st Dec saying ‘your case is open for interview, fingerprints and docs but ‘if you’ve had your interview check in 2 business days’, also ‘if no interview was required, check in 2 business days’ so still somewhat unsure if I would later get called for interview. Later that same day it showed as ‘refused’ with a confusing message ‘A U.S. consular officer has adjudicated and refused your visa application. Please follow any instructions provided by the consular officer. If you were informed by the consular officer that your case was refused for administrative processing, your case will remain refused while undergoing such processing. You will receive another adjudication once such processing is complete.’ I’ve had no communication at all from the embassy so it’s terribly upsetting and unclear to this point. On December 6th, still no update but I found a small section on the US Irish Mission website telling E-3 applicants not to submit physical documents but scan them and email to an address provided. So I emailed them to explain I'd simply followed the instructions on ais-usvisa site, didn't get a reply but within 2 hours I got an auto-generated email stating that my account was now enabled to schedule an interview. I was able to schedule for the very next week, the 12th at 08:15. The earlier 08:00 appointments all seemed to be processed quite smoothly. I was towards the front of the queue but held back until precisely 08:15, there's a preliminary check of your passport and photo size (do yourself a favour and be 100% certain you've got the 2x2inch correct size as several people were sent out to a nearby pharmacy to get a new one), with airport-like security scanner and you leave your phone in a locker and are given a lanyard. Then you proceed to the office on the right of the building. A short queue to a first stage window where they review they have all relevant documentation. I supplemented the degree equivalency statement at this point. All in order and instructed to go to the secondary queue for interview. Interviewer was polite and friendly. He only asked a handful of questions like 'what's your educational background?' 'what's the company called?' 'tell me a bit about your role?' then, not sure if he was trying to catch me out or not but he asked 'how long have you been working for them?' and I said I hadn't, I was starting anew but I guess some people relocate from an existing overseas role. He told me there that the application was approved and it might take up to 10 days to receive back my passport. I was out before the hour was up, very efficient. On Wednesday the 14th around 8pm I got an email stating my passport was being sent out to the depot for collection. I collected it on Friday morning the 16th after the status changed to 'Goods held' but I think I probably could have gotten it the day before if urgent and was able to charm the depot staff. So, to summarise, 10 days from scheduling the appointment to having the passport with visa back in my hand. I don't think many embassies can match that.
- Rory (about 10 months ago)

America Josh Review Rhys Hutchison 16:53 (0 minutes ago) to Kaila This is the review that I left on his site, thought to send it to you for your notes/review on reddit etc. What can I say about US Consulates within Germany that hasn't already been said before. We were severely limited with official information online surrounding E3R & E3D renewals. After countless days attempting to arrange an appointment, we managed to find one in the coming weeks post covid at their Frankfurt Embassy. My partner and I arrived close to an hour early for our appointment, as we were unsure of the area and any other situations that may arise. We were asked to queue up outside to obtain our security clearance, which we were allowed to store our small personal items (ie. mobile phones & smart watch) inside their office before proceeding inside to the consulate for our appointment. After speaking with several official staff members who verified our documentation, collected both sets of biometrics and also verbally confirmed both our employment situations. We were verbally advised that our application for renewal had been successful and that next steps involved our passports being taken for issuance of an updated visa stamp. This entire process began on the Friday and would take several days to complete, I actively monitored the status of the renewal every few hours using our DS-160 application numbers online, and seen that it was quickly being processed. The status portal mentions that upon receiving approval, that it would only take 2 days to be returned. Officially, we received an email 3 days later to advise that everything was ready to be picked up at the designated location. I'd highly suggest checking the new visa stamp as within our returned passports the expiration date was incorrect; the consulate unfortunately used my previous LCA which was still valid and resulted in the use of the wrong expiry date (< 1 month). Online support and calls to the consulate advised us that the process to have everything corrected was for us to submit an email to the visa support unit and await a response. We obliged by submitting the support request but also decided to venture back to the consulate and possibly speak with someone that might be able to assist. After arriving and politely explaining the situation along with our impending return flight to the US. A consulate security officer contacted an embassy official and was able to immediately come outside to speak with us. I provided the official with the discrepancy and handed over the correct LCA, this person was able to reprint the correct visa stamp and amend it within our passports whilst we waited outside within the hour. TL;DR - I'd highly recommend German Consulates as their staff were extremely helpful and turn around times were rather quick in comparison to the last time we renewed within the US & Sydney.
- Rhys & Kaila (about 1 year ago)

Interview was for an initial E3 visa. The process for booking the appointment was mostly easy, they accept Australian credit cards for online payment. The visa interview wait time was approximately 5 days. The embassy was easy to find, with ample public transport options. The paperwork will say don’t take any electronic devices, so I followed that and took none, however security did have facilities to store phones etc. The actual visa process at the interview was quite simple, I had a multitude of paperwork but in the end the only thing they wanted from me was the LCA. Actual time at the embassy was approximately 2 hours, but most of that was just waiting in lines. On completion of the interview they will say expect your passport back in 1-2 weeks. However I completed my appointment at 1pm Friday 5 May, and my passport was ready for collection Tuesday 10 May. So without the weekend in there a 3 day turnaround may have been possible. Overall I found it a very simple process, and it ran smoothly. I would definitely recommend the Frankfurt consulate.
- Ian (about 1 year ago)

1. Expect to receive an email indicating the passport is ready on the evening of the 3rd business day from your interview. 2. I picked up the passport at 9am, and still made my 10.50 am flight out Frankfurt Airport
- Jonny (about 1 year ago)

We were impressed by the services at the Frankfurt U.S embassy location. Very organised. Step 1) Stand in the queue outside the embassy and out of the two windows you will be called at one of the window to get your appointment details and passport verified Step 2) Go through security screening to enter the consulate 3) Enter inside the building and stand in the queue for secondary validation 4) Go for finger printing 5) Go for interview in the line. They will let you know if approved or no. We appeared for E3 and E3D on 24th feb and got our passports on 2nd March morning. We received the emails for passport collections on 1st EOD. Also the main applicant somehow did not receive the email.
- Ankita (about 7 months ago)

It was a good experience and most of the people got the passport next day and mine got delayed due to printing issue and got after 2nd day
- Muthu (about 10 months ago)

Interviewer didn’t ask for supporting documents, whole actual interview process was quick, but the lines were already quite long at 8am. My lawyer gave me a stack of useless documents and I got laughed at by security, only LCA and passport is needed for my case.
- Anonymous (about 1 year ago)

I was refused because never take covid 19 vaccine
- Vincent (about 2 years ago)

Stayed across from the embassy at a guest house the day before the interview. People start lining up well before the appointment times outside the embassy. The line was quite long but moved relatively quickly. I don't think they had processed many E3s before because they did mine as the last visa for the day so I waited longer than most. Total time in line until leaving was about 2 hours. The embassy staff didn't ask too many questions and were fairly friendly. They asked when I was flying out, and when I told them it was the following week, they said they'd process my visa express, and that I had to come back to the embassy to pick up my passport in 4 days (this included a weekend). They seemed quite happy to do it, but said if I didn't get express processing, it would take three weeks and be delivered by courier, so don't pay the express courier fee online. I had to leave everything, including my hotel key outside at a small table for a fee and picked it up when I was done. This service doesn't appear to be run by the embassy. Don't bring valuables. Until getting inside, very few people spoke English. I don't speak Spanish and was OK, but you can't bring your phone to use Google Translate. If you've made it to Peru, you'll work it out.
- Ben (about 2 years ago)

Appointment booked on 18th of March 2022
- Tracy (about 2 years ago)

Made the appointment about 2 months out, and was able to reschedule for an earlier appointment fairly quickly and easily.
- Eli (about 1 year ago)

Super efficient. Much better than the process back in Aus. Booked the appointment about 3 weeks before the day of and actual interview lasted about 45 seconds. Highly recommended!
- Dan (about 1 year ago)

Appointment was a 15th (Thursday). Updated online as Issued 17th (Saturday), 19th public holiday (Monday). Will pick up 20th (Tuesday). 2/3 working days
- Em (about 1 year ago)

Quick efficient friendly embassy staff queues managed well, passports returned in 3 days
- Emily (about 1 year ago)

Bring an umbrella! Sometimes the line outside while you wait for security screening can take time, and there's no shelter!
- Melissa (about 2 years ago)

Wanted to share my London visa experience as I know I always rely on this group for the most up to date information and would love to pay it forward! Had my H1B appointment Monday morning 8:30AM - arrived around 8:15AM and the line was already very long (you just get in the back irrespective of appointment time), but moved pretty quickly through security. No laptops but you’re allowed to keep your phone with you (and they even have free wifi!). By the time I got in, the downstairs reception asked for anyone with 8AM or 8:30AM appointments to come through to the front and we were prioritised ahead of those with later appointment times. Once you get upstairs it’s a super efficient process, lots of booths processing and an abundance of automated ticketing to counter prompts on screens. First time you go to the window is for someone to check your documents, then you wait again and are called up to a different window for the interview. I was switching from an E3 to an H1B but my lawyers had already filed the petition so the interview lasted all of 2 minutes (have you had an H1B before + what do you do). Then I was asked to pay the reciprocity fee at a separate cashier window ($1,295) before going back to the same officer. Ended up leaving the embassy at ~9:30/9:40 so was about a 90min process from arrival. Received an email on Tuesday evening (5:30PM GMT) that my passport had been sent out (earlier that day my lawyers confirmed that the status on the portal had changed to “Issued”). Based on what I had read previously, I went to pick my passport up from the DX location on Wednesday (note: even though the tracking will say “out for delivery”, because the destination I chose was the default to the courier shop, there’s really nowhere for it to actually deliver to so it’s already there). The guys at DX seem well versed and knew exactly what the tracking was for etc. Make sure to bring another form of ID - the website has a list of what is acceptable but a drivers license is probably easiest. Overall the entire process took just over 48 hours from time of appointment to when I picked my passport back up from the courier location in Holborn! Super efficient and highly recommend London as a visa location!!
- Gracie (about 11 months ago)

- Booking the appointment was quite easy with lots of availability, I booked only a month out but could have booked within the week. - Arrived 35 mins (advised to arrive 30 mins prior) prior to the appointment (10am appt). Very long line which took upward of 90 minutes to get through. It is outside so definitely take a jacket and an umbrella. - First checkpoint is a DS-160 and passport check, second is security and third is a DS-160 scan and assigning you a number before proceeding up to level 1 (You can't take a laptop or tablet but you don't have to check your backpack or small bag in, you keep it with you as well as your phone which is handy whilst in waiting room) - Level 1 is a waiting room with visa interview windows where your number will appear on a scrolling screen advising which window to go to. - First interview was just a document check and all they wanted were my passport, certified LCA, photo and a support letter addressed to the embassy (if you don't have a photo, they have a photo booth on this level as well); Second interview was very basic asking: "What does your company do? What is your job title?" Scan fingerprints and told visa approved. This inside process took about another 90 minutes so total time was 3 hours. - Only hiccup in the interview was I had selected E3 not E3R but the lady just adjusted that on the spot, not sure if its always that easy. - Passport status changed to issued exactly 7 days after the interview, and available for collection 9 days after (24th November) from the courier company.
- Scott (about 11 months ago)

Renewal of J2, no interview required. Had to delay my flight, because the turnaround was 3 weeks, a lot slower than last time. Submitted documents on 21 Nov, and they were ready for pick-up on 9 Dec. Might've been due to Thanksgiving?
- Alice (about 11 months ago)

This will be long, as it’s the level of detail I was looking for ahead of my appointment! First thing to note is that if you’re applying for the first time, it’s advised to do so from a country in which you hold citizenship - I definitely scoured these reviews not realising that and assuming I could go anywhere. I am an English/Australian dual national, so I picked London. Third party consulates are generally only advised for renewals. My appointment was at 9am, I arrived at 8.25am and there was already a backlog/queue. So I really would recommend getting the earliest appointment you can, and arriving early. That first queue lasted around 30/40 minutes (outdoor, so rug up warm and bring an umbrella!), and at the front you have to present your DS160 confirmation page and passport, followed by airport-like security. Then there was another (outdoor) queue leading from the security building to the main one. This probably took another 30ish minutes despite it appearing much shorter. That said, it sped up quickly towards the end so it’s possible they were short staffed or having to deal with something unexpected at first. Again, you’re asked for your DS160 and passport before being given a ticket with a number on, and told which floor to go to for your interview. Up the lift you end up in a big waiting room and wait for your number to come up on the screen telling you which booth/screen to head to. It took around 10/15 minutes for mine to show. At the booth I was asked for my DS160, passport, and fingerprints on both hands. At this point he advised I should not have applied with my UK passport as my primary one, despite the fact my Australian passport details were included later in the DS160 form (and despite my lawyers suggestion…). Ultimately they were able to change the details there and then, but I’m not sure if I was just lucky. I was then directed to the other side of the room to wait for my number to appear again for my interview. Again this took another 10 or so minutes. At the interview (also a screen/booth) I was asked for the same forms as last time and my passport, and was asked some questions - I was asked where I’d been backpacking, which I had been a few months prior, though I can’t think where on my forms that would’ve been stated. The officer was really friendly so I also couldn’t tell if this was chit chat or relevant to the interview. He asked which company I’m going to work for, what my new job title was, and confirmed if I’d been working in that field previously. He never asked to see any of my supporting docs, despite my folder full of them! He also didn’t ask anything about my degree, which I was expecting. Of course it goes without saying, this was only my experience and some officers may be more thorough. He told me on the spot that it was approved. Timelines: - 28th November: Went to book appointment and next available was 11 Jan - 11th Jan (Weds): Had appointment at 9am. Process took around 2 hours from arrival to exit - 11th Jan (Weds): Visa status was marked as ‘approved’ on CEAS that day - 13th Jan (Fri): Visa status changed to ‘issued’ by midday - 13th Jan (Fri): Received an email saying passport had been dispatched at 1pm - 16th Jan (Mon): Passport arrived at collection office - 17th Jan (Tues): I collected it from the DX courier office, I arrived a couple minutes before it opened and they’d already opened, there was nobody else there so it took around 1 minute from arrival to exit
- Emily (about 9 months ago)

London Embassy E3 Review. Please note this was at the time of the Coronation, so may have caused some of the backlog/delays in this review. Note also while my visa came back within all usual timeframes, it was a much longer and more stressful process than many of the reviewers have found so far - I will manage my expectations better next time! My timeline was: *Early April - went to book appointments for London. There was nothing available but I kept refreshing and got an appointment middle of May, then early May, then eventually the exact date I wanted at 24th April. Keep refreshing, new spots or cancellations come up all the time! *Monday 24th April - appointment. As others have said, you join a large line outside the Embassy, firstly to check your documents. Someone from the Embassy will check as you join the line, check that you are in the right time, and what time your appointment is. If you are too early, you will be asked to join later. 15 - 30m beforehand is the sweetspot. Once your documents are initially checked and marked, you join the big line next to it to go into the Embassy. This line moves a bit slower but nothing too bad. When you go in you do a security check like at an airport. You ARE allowed to bring your phone in, though unsure about laptops and ipads. From there you take a number at reception, then a lift to the next level, and wait for your number to be called to whatever window, where there will be a line up of people at that window. There you will check your documents again, answer a few questions, and do fingerprints. After that you line up at another line (lots of lining up today!), and do your interview. This is a few questions about your workplace, role, history in the US, as well as them looking at some of your documents, and doing fingerprints again. After this I was approved straight away, and given a card to track passport collection. I was told it would be ready in 3 - 5 days - stoked. My CAEC status was 'approved' straight away. *Towards the end of the week I was concerned I had not received notification my passport was ready. I had a flight booked to leave on the Saturday, which I thought would be plenty of time. I cancelled that flight and extended my accommodation over the weekend, noting it was the first of two long weekends in a row that month. I was hoping it may be ready to go on Tuesday. *Wednesday 3rd May - my application changed to 'Administrative Processing'. I was very nervous as this could have meant an issue or being under review, OR that it was about to be printed and issued. Many people said their status changed to AP in the issuing stage, so I relaxed slightly. *Thursday 4th May - application changed to 'Application Received'. I lost my mind at this point as this is the first step in the process, before Approved. I assume my application had to be reviewed or checked again, as my prior status was a bit complicated. I was absolutely panicking that the Approval and Issuing process would take 10+ days after that, as urgently needed to get home to pack up my apartment at lease end, move interstate, and start a new job, which I'd already pushed out as part of this process. In my panic I emailed the Embassy, who could not give me information, though I do wonder if my fairly unhinged emails got the process moving slightly quicker. *Friday 5th May - application changed to 'Approved'. Very happy, though nervous about the potential length of time until the passport is issued. I sent another unhinged panicked email to the Embassy, with a generic response, though a couple of hours later my status changed to 'Issued', and an hour after that I received tracking. It was then ANOTHER long weekend. My tracking said the visa was 'expected' to arrive on Tuesday. *Tuesday 9th May - after panicking (again) as I did not know the timeframe of when the Visa would be ready for collection and I had booked a flight that day, at 7am the tracking said 'delivered' or 'ready for collection'. I bolted to the DX, it was already open a little before 8am, collected the passport, finally breathed a sigh of relief, and left the country that day! While the process at the Embassy was wonderful, very efficient and streamlined and modern (though do allow 2 hours all up), the steps after that was incredibly stressful. I do hope that this was just due to Coronation backlogs, as others I chatted to were in a similar timeframe. While the extension of the stay was very expensive, and I could have 'saved' money on accommodation back in Aus, or in a country like Brazil, I did feel a lot of confidence in the London office and those I spoke to on email, and didn't need to do a huge flight to get there, so felt it is still a good choice for any visa requirements. I would definitely go there again though with a more open mind about how long the process could actually take
- Georgia (about 5 months ago)

We had a good experience at the London Embassy. Unfortunately one of our applications didn’t submit properly and we had to redo it. Lucky we were able to use their wifi and we didn’t have to make another appointment. We were able to go back to our original counter and after that they put us at the front for the interview. They told us it could take up to two weeks but we got our passports back in 8 days. It was a relatively good experience and even better to have explored London while we waited
- Jessica (about 5 months ago)

First time E-3 review - if you are looking for an appointment ASAP, London is a good location with plenty of cancellations opening spots up just 2-5 days in advance. As pointed out before, the line outside is long, however once you are inside the process is very efficient. My appointment lasted all of 2 minutes. Tip: arrive 45mins to 1 hour prior to your scheduled appointment and by the time you reach the front of the line it will be your time. I was scheduled for 9am and arrived at 8:10am. I entered the embassy at 9:10am. When I exited the embassy after my appointment the line had more than doubled from when I arrived at 8:10am so if you have a later appointment (i.e. 10am or 10:30am) consider arriving well over an hour prior. The issue with London at this point is the passport turnaround time is about 8 days. I had my appointment on a Tuesday. I received the courier tracking email on the following Tuesday afternoon and picked up the passport first thing Wednesday morning. Tip: don’t wait for the tracking link to say ‘out for delivery’ or ‘ready for collection’. Even if you don’t see any tracking updates your passport will be ready for you at the courier pickup location the morning after you receive the tracking link (keep in mind the courier pickup is closed on weekends). Go at 8am to pickup your passport and there will be no lines.
- Michael (about 3 months ago)

Recently got a new E3 visa in London. Appointment was on Thursday June 15th, with the whole process taking about 1 1/2 hours. It was very seamless and straightforward, even though the lines were long they moved relatively quickly. During the interview part the only questions I got asked were what is the name of your employer, what type of work will you be doing and what is your highest level of education. I brought heaps of printed documentation but didn't have to show anything. My visa was approved on the spot and she said it would take 2 weeks to get back. On Friday 23rd June the CEAC status changed from 'Approved' to 'Issued.' Monday 26th June around 2:30pm I received the tracking number saying my passport was due to be delivered the following day (Tuesday 27th June). I went to the DX centre around 4:30pm the Monday anyway just to check if they had received, they hadn't. They said to come back in the morning at 8:00am. I arrived at 7:50am, doors were already open with no lines. Collected my passport with no issues and flew out that day. Overall I had a good experience and highly rate the London embassy.
- Rachel (about 4 months ago)

I found this location after multiple DS160 redos. We were planning to do it in Lima, but they don't have any appointments whatsoever despite saying on the American website. Appointment times were available and the interview went very smooth (two questions). All in all it took around a week for the visa to be issued and I assume I will be getting it back on Friday 6/30
- William (about 3 months ago)

Me and my husband attended the interview on Tuesday May 30th. Mine an e3 renewal, my husband moving over to an E3d as we recently got married. Approved on the spot. No issues, just had to show our marriage license. Our visa status updated to approved the same day. 10 days of waiting and then my husbands visa status changed to Administrative Processing (mine stayed approved). We started to get worried but after speaking to a few people, it should change to issued within a few days. Well, it didn’t. It took an additional 2 full weeks for my husbands to change to “application reviewed”, then back to “approved”, then finally to “issued”. We were in London for a little under 4 weeks. Extremely stressful, and an expensive place to be stuck in limbo. We emailed the embassy twice for updates. They never replied.
- Jamie (about 4 months ago)

My visa appointment was for Friday, June 30 at 10am. Although I was supposed to fly into London at 6:30am, due to multiple flight delays (thanks Air Canada) I didn't land at Heathrow until around 9:30am. I had emailed the embassy prior to boarding my flight, knowing I would be arriving late. The email informed me that "it is not possible to access consular services after 11am". Well, I wasn't getting there before 11am... I booked it to the embassy and arrived an hour and a half late. I put on a smile, didn't say anything about being late upon checking in and thankfully was let through. Not sure if I was just lucky. The entire appointment process was straightforward and took close to 2.5 hours, at the end of which the guy told me I should expect to get my passport back in 7 business days. I got the email that my visa had been issued the following Thursday, July 6 and it was ready for pickup the next day - 7 days total. I got to the courier pickup location a couple of hours after it had opened and only had to wait behind one other person. Note that July 4 was a public holiday for the embassy, so it could have been processed a little quicker if it weren't for that. Beautiful embassy, longer processing times than some other location reviews on here, but would recommend considering this embassy has experience with processing a lot of E3 visas.
- Ari (about 3 months ago)

Very well organised facility and picking up my passport from the designated location was well communicated and easily done.
- Maeve (about 2 years ago)

My experience seemed a little different than others so ima add it here: - appointment was at 9am Monday July 24th - got to embassy at 8:15am and joined the line outside (wasn’t very long when I got there but became quite long a mere 5 mins later) - got to first check in point at 8:30 where they look at your passport and ds160 - went through security which took less than 5 mins - went through next checkpoint where they gave me a sticker indicating my number which took about 5 mins - went up to the first level and waited maybe 15-20 mins for the next checkpoint where she asked me where I was residing and when I arrived in London and took my fingerprints - lined up for the interview, this was the longest part where I waited in line for over an hour (maybe about 75 mins - bring something to read or headphones) - got to my interview, she asked me if I was a student or not, where I was going to be working and my job title (overall took less than 5 mins) - approved on the spot, she said should get it in a week and had changed in ceac day of appt - checked my ceac status the next day (Tuesday July 25) in the afternoon and it had changed to issued - received email around noon on Wednesday (July 26) that it had been sent to DX - will pick it up either Thursday or Friday morning
- Lin (about 2 months ago)

Overall, pretty smooth experience! Arrived 30 mins early and waited in the line outside for approx. 40 mins. Got number and front desk and then up to the 2nd floor where I waited in the document check area for approx. 30 mins, then waited in interview line approx. 30 mins. This was my 5th renewal with the same company and was only asked one question: "What is your role?" and Bob's your uncle!
- Analisa (about 3 months ago)

Just got back from my E-3 Renewal in London. Overall a very seamless experience, 3 day turnaround, would recommend. Quick order of events: 1. Appt was at 9:00am. I got to the consulate at 8:30. They do a check in of your cover page of the DS-160 and your passport outside of the building, the line was long but moved quickly, I waited maybe 5-10 mins. 2. You then go through security and into the main building. Waited in line again, they put a sticker on your DS-160 page and send you up in an elevator to the main processing room 3. You're given a ticket when you get to the main processing room, and wait for it to be called (like a shopfront/DMV). That took about 30 mins. The person at the counter asked for my LCA, the photo for the visa and the DS-160 cover page and they ten-print you. They checked it and put it all into a plastic sleeve for me. They asked me if I was a renewal or a new visa and they asked to see my old visa which was in my old passport, which I also brought with me. 4. Proceed to actual interview line. This is where the wait was, I stood for about 90 mins. Get to the counter finally, they asked me what I did for work and told me I had been approved, then took the passport from me and told me it would be returned in 7 business days. Overall the interaction time was very quick and easy, just the waiting in lines is what takes so long. 5. Later that day the visa status changed to Issued, and I received a notification from the courier on Thurs (2 days later) that it was out for delivery. I collected my passport on Friday afternoon from the DX in Holborn (3 days after). I had planned for 5 business days overall so I was happy it returned so quickly.
- Aly (about 3 months ago)

We did pay for premium processing, (delivery to our hotel in Soho which incidentally was very close to the company that was delivering) the passport with visa inside was delivered in the afternoon, 3 days later.
- Michelle (about 2 months ago)

Similar process as per most of the reviews arrived 30 mins before the 9.00 am appointment, joined one queue to check in, and then second to go through security. Once inside I had to officially check-in and with my number allocation in hand was sent upstairs to the first part of the process. After 10 mins the number was called resulting in a quick check of paperwork, and fingerprints being taken. Then joined the queue for the interview, which took a little longer, about 40 mins. The interview itself was super-fast, name, what is your job, and then some pleasantries before being told the visa was approved and I should receive my passport within 7 days, out by 10.30 am. The interview was on a Thursday and by that afternoon status had changed to approved, the following Monday received an email indicating the passport was on its way to the place of collection and collected Tuesday morning. So a total of 6 days including the day of the interview and 2 weekend days so much swifter than expected and a great experience with really friendly and helpful staff.
- Trevor (about 2 months ago)

Aug 7 appointment, visa approved on the spot. Aug 8 status changed from approved to issued. Aug 9 delivered to courier. Aug 10 picked up from DX. While this location was the busiest consulate I have ever visited, it’s a well oiled machine. Worth noting you can get passport photos inside, grab a coffee while you wait, and you don’t have to check your phone. Would recommend London for visa processing for sure. Pick up at the DX was easy, bring some form of ID - even your name on a bank card.
- Mads (about 2 months ago)

This was probably one of the smoothest E3 renewals (this is my 3rd) I've had so far. My appointment was at 8:30am. I got there an hour early just in case. I hopped in line at 7:30am to do the first check (DS-160 and passport to be shown), they noted the time of the interview on the DS-160. After that you enter a security line where they check your bag (small bags allowed. No need to check in your phone. No large bags or suitcases and no laptops). You get to the front desk and they tell you which elevator to go to and stick a ticket number on your passport. Once you're there, you can sit and wait until your ticket is called or appears on one of the many screens. There is a small kiosk in the middle of this lobby area so you can get a coffee and a snack while you wait. There is also an option to have your passport/visa photo taken on the same level. When your ticket is called, they check your DS-160, passport and LCA, they put this in a clear plastic envelope and tell you to go to the interview line. The interview itself was fairly straightforward. I was asked if I was with the same employer and what I did and where my job was located (along with some small chat). I was approved on the spot and by the time I exited the consulate, it was 9:30am. During that hour, it was moving along so there wasn't really any long waiting times. I had my interview on a Aug 30 (Wednesday) and received a notification on September 1 (Friday) that it would be delivered on September 4 (Monday). I picked it up on Monday at the DX and it was pretty easy. Have some form of ID and your tracking number ready (it will be sent to you in an email as well as be on the website where you can see your appointment status (https://ais.usvisa-info.com/). This site was a huge help for me in preparing for the interview and put my mind at ease. It was helpful to see peoples recent experiences and the wait times for interviews in one place. Good luck to you all!
- Kristine (about 1 month ago)

Couldn't believe how smoothly everything went. I was worried at first doing my E3 from London instead of Melbourne or Sydney, but there was absolutely nothing to be worried about. Appointment was on Monday 10th of Sept. Rocked up 30 mins early. They ask for your DS-160 printout at the door and give you a ticket number. I waited about 30 mins for the stage 1 interview. This interview goes for under a minute. I was asked what visa I was applying for (E3), if it's my first E3, and how long I've been working for this company for (I said I hadn't started yet; you're not allowed to start until your visa is approved, so I guess this is to trip people up). Once done, you move across to the stage 2 interview. This line was 1hr 30 long, so be prepared to wait. Many people brought a book, I did crosswords on my phone. Once I got to the front and did my interview, it went for less than a minute. I wasn't asked for any documents except for my passport, DS-160 printout, and the certified LCA printout. I also had with me a degree equivalency, degree transcript and testamur, visa fee receipt, physical copies of my visa/passport photos, and formalised job offer, however I wasn't asked for any of these - only passport, DS-160, LCA. I was approved on the spot, and said I should get my passport back within a week. This was on a Monday at around 12.30pm. The next day at 2pm, I got an email saying my document (passport) had been picked up by a courier and would be ready for pickup the day after (Wednesday). At 5am Wednesday I was notified it was ready for pickup from the 50 Chancery Lane location in central London (note they don't open until 8 or 9am). All in all, it was a super smooth process and I got my passport back within 48 hours of my interview (Mon - Wed). I could've flown back to the States that afternoon but stayed a couple more days as I had accomm booked since I didn't think the process would be that fast. Think I was one of the lucky ones! All the best on your application, hope this helped.
- Callan (about 21 days ago)

You need to bring photos
- Dean (about 2 years ago)

Location : Madrid (SPAIN) Date Time : 20th Jan 2022 Thursday at 8:30am (Had booked this in late September 2021) Who attended : E3 renewal with spouse as E3D renewal along with 2 year old daughter. Prep Work -Document Printing : We had to print a bunch of documents a day before the interview. Used an online service www.workcenter.es to upload documents and make payment using international VISA credit card and the files were available for pickup in 15 mins. Since we lived on Gran Via street in City Center the closest location was WORKCENTER SAN BERNARDO which I just took a train to. I printed 29 sheets and cost was around 8 euros. *Pro Tip* - If you print just 1 or 2 documents you will pay a minimum printing fee of 1.59 euros so it’s actually better to print 5 or more as the rate then comes to 0.16 euros per page + VAT of 21 percent. Prep Work – Online Photo & Physical Photo : We had to update our DS-160 as we had chosen a different country before zeroing on madrid as the appointments were available and we had booked using our old DS-160 number created for another country. When you select MADRID as the location in DS-160 it asked us to upload a digital copy of our photo which we obviously didn’t have. Used Iphone 13 and an app called Passport both (free for 3 days so remember to cancel the subscription after that) to click the photo with bright light and white background and uploaded to the form which passed. We still had our physical photos required for the interview just that online vs physical were different. That didn’t matter as long as both photos were taken in the last 6 months and adheres to their standard. Prep Work - Courier Payment on Passport handover : The MRW courier service the embassy uses require payment of cash or debit card upon passport delivery. I had exchanged for 10 EURO’s using RIA money transfer on Gran Via and when the courier guy came for passport deliver it was 7.45 euros since I was in Madrid city center. I handed over 10 euros to him as he had no cash change. Mode of Transport : Took a train and then we walked to the embassy which is a 7 mins walk. Google map shows you the back entrance so you will need to walk up to the front. *Pro Tip* - We actually did a rehearsal run via train the previous day to be comfortable with the route and accurately predict arrival time. Had asked security on what items we could carry. Arrival Time : 8:25 AM at the front gate with security staff checking the passport , date/time and then letting people go for security screening 1 by 1 or by family. Items Carried : A4 Document Folder, mobile phone, cash/card small wallet and small diaper bag with water bottle and milk bottle and some snacks for the daughter. We didn’t take any strollers but seems they were fine. Locker : Once we were let in for security check by the front guards, the switched off mobile phones were kept in a locker and a number tag was provided to us which needs to be handed over on return pickup. First Window (Document check) : Once clearing up security, we walked over to the First desk window queue where they check your papers LCA, I797, Passport, Photo and provide you with a blank envelope to fill up the return address & phone number for MRW courier which they use to return the passports. Both names of the passport holder needs to be written along with proper address of SPAIN and local phone number. Took around 20 mins here. *Pro tip * - Luckily I had a friend who stays in madrid so used his number but you can use the hotel’s address and number. We had to update our DS-160 as we had chosen a different country before. We explained this to the lady and provided our new DS-160 (which was filled up 2 days before) which she updated in the system. Second Window (Consular Interview) : Since only 1 window was open, there was a long line for this one. There is a small play area right next to this queue where my daughter along with my wife played sitting on the chairs/table while I waited in line. After waiting for 45 mins it was our turn and the officer asked for below items/questions What’s the name of the company ? Describe what do you do ? Please provide your marriage certificate ? Is your daughter a U.S. citizen ? do you have your employment verification letter ? do you have your educational qualification certificate ? In just 3 mins he said your VISA is approved and your passport should arrive in 5 days. Documents shown: Passport, LCA, I797-C, 1 VISA photo, Employment Verification Letter, Paystub for last 2 period, Marriage certificate, all educational qualification certificates. Documents Kept by Officer : Passport, 1 VISA photo, Return envelope with hotel’s address & phone number in it Washrooms / Diaper changing : There are 2 of them in the same room while you wait in queue and you can access them very easily. One of them also has the diaper changing station so it’s all nice and clean. On Exit : We provided the number token and took our mobile phones back. Total time around 80 mins. Courier Wait for Passport delivery : There was no tracking number provided for MRW so they solely rely on the address and number written down on the plain envelope. Here’s the time line : 20Jan2022 (Thursday) @ 8:30 AM – Scheduled Appointment Time (E3R & E3DR) 20Jan2022 (Thursday) @ 9:35 AM – Actual Consular Interview 20Jan2022 (Thursday) @ 11:00 AM – DS-160 status changed to administrative processing 21Jan2022 (Friday) @ 11:10 AM – DS-160 status changed to VISA issued No more updates after it. NO TRACKING number from MRW either. NO SMS or email either. 24Jan2022 (Monday) @ 11:09 AM – MRW courier delivery guy directly knocked on my door in the Apartment Hotel and delivered the package with a required payment of 7.45 euros (only CASH or DEBIT – NO CREDIT CARD allowed) MRW Courier tracking : Can only be SEEN after you have the passports that has the receipt number. Backtracked from that information on MRW website. 01/24/2022 11:09 shipment delivered MADRID 01/24/2022 07:58 Shipping on delivery MADRID 01/22/2022 07:22 In transit MADRID 01/21/2022 21:29 In transit Logistics Platform (02699) 01/21/2022 16:22 In transit MADRID 01/21/2022 16:11 Pending collection at origin MADRID
- UNISOFT (about 2 years ago)

Quick update to previous reviews. Don't worry if you have submitted your DS-160 with another location - I had applied in Hamilton, but ended up in Madrid as it was the only option available. I just had to wait 10 minutes while the consular official pulled the DS-160 from the system, otherwise there were no issues. I have never used a lawyer for my E3, so did not get the bad advice given to a previous reviewer. Note that the US Gov website also clearly states there is no problem changing locations. As my visa application was a renewal I did not need Photos, Resume, Degree or employment letter. All they wanted was my LCA. Once the interview was done they gave 2 options for passport delivery -i.e.; Provide a local mailing address, or collect the passport from the courier offices. They quoted 4-5 days for delivery and 2-3 days for pickup. I chose pickup. My interview was the tuesday morning and I received an email wednesday afternoon saying my passport was ready. Super quick. My appointment was at 9.30 and I was out by 10.15 - a pretty positive experience.
- Tom (about 2 years ago)

It was a renewal by mail…passport and application sent on Jan-10th, received by consulate on Jan-11th…then waiting on CEAC status to be updated till Jan-24th, status changed to administrative processing on Jan-25th, then status updated issued on Jan-27th & passport sent back on the same day, delivered on Jan-28th…overall good experience but never received any reply from consulate for query…please note there were 2 public holidays and 4 days of 2 weekend.
- Sam (about 2 years ago)

I’ve been on administrative processing since lodging the application and still haven’t heard anything
- Alex (about 2 years ago)

It's been under AP for the last 7 months and I'm still awaiting the visa to be issued.
- Alex (about 2 years ago)

staff were mean 🙁
- (about 1 year ago)

Getting the visa appointment took 6 months but the actual consulate process was extremely easy and quick. I originally had a Sydney appointment but that was cancelled 2 months before the date and then I had to reschedule (and get back in the queue) for Melbourne.
- Sam (about 1 year ago)

Interview was very quick. A worker reviewed the requested documents & scanned in my passport photo. I then waited in a small queue for the actual interview which only lasted 1 minute at most. Only asked what my roll will entail and what the company does. Overall a quick and painless process!
- Thomas (about 9 months ago)

New E3 Visa Melbourne Review June 9th - Interview June 14th - Received email that passport is ready to collect June 15th - Collected passport LCA - you can book an interview without your LCA, just put a placeholder ‘000’ in that section. When you get your LCA, update your DS-160 with the new LCA number and call +61 1300 139 399 to update your interview details with the new DS-160 number. Finding an appointment - keep refreshing as new appointments do open up. To find out earliest amongst Melb/Syd/Perth just call +61 1300 139 399 and ask them. This avoids needing to cancel one appointment at risk of losing it if a sooner one isn’t available at another consulate. Interview - make sure you bring a passport photo that is less than 6 months old, even if your DS-160 application photo was approved. Otherwise you have to go down the road for a new passport photo at Aus Post. Interview - they just asked to see my LCA, Job offer letter, passport photo and passport. Quick process less than 30 mins all up. They only asked what my job was and my highest level of education. Arrive at least 15mins before and review the security email to know what you can/can’t bring in. Visa status post interview - mine never updated on the CEAC website. I found this website helpful for some extra tracking steps you could look into. You can also email the Melbourne consulate. https://www.ustraveldocs.com/sk/sk-niv-passporttrack.asp#:~:text=Email%3A%20Send%20an%20email%20to,automatic%20response%20with%20the%20status. Passport collection - it’s on level 11 of the VFS Global building on Swanston Street. Collection is only between 10am - 12pm. Bring a proof of ID with you to collect. Pick up vs Post - I personally would recommend opting for pick up. Firstly you don’t need to pay. Secondly it seemed to be approx 1 day earlier than waiting for delivery. And lastly it reduces the stress of having to stay home waiting for it to show up.
- Kate (about 4 months ago)

Visa wait times following COVID were astronomically long : 8+months.
- Gargi (about 9 months ago)

*Interview waiver/mail in application: Mailed in my application package from a regional post office box on a Thursday (Express/overnight) and it was marked as delivered on the Friday morning by Australia Post. US embassy internal tracking recorded as processing only on the Monday afternoon and at 5PM on the Tuesday I received notification it was ready to collect (NB: I selected this option vs. return to sender mail). I left a VERY tight travel window for my return flight (< 5 business days) and indicated this on the paperwork (not sure if this influenced the expedited processing time) but all told it was a three business day turnaround. I collected the passport in person to save a day and any potential issues receiving the passport back in the mail. This was my fourth E3 renewal and the most straightforward from this location.
- Heidi (about 2 months ago)

First time E3 visa at Monterry. Came on backpacking to explore the US and became fond of it and wanted to explore further. Looked for new jobs. E3 is so new and not many employers wanted to take a punt at it.. but I was upfront with them and found one. Went to Monterrey. They asked a lot of questions testing my ability to do the job as I said. in the end, they approved. I explored the city waiting for my visa. it's a one-week wait after it's approved. That one week gave me chance to explore Mexican culture and i became of fond of it.
- Scott Johnson (about 1 year ago)

Security will hold your phone despite the consulate instructions telling you they won't. Interviewer was very thorough compared to other renewals. Asked several questions about long term intentions and wanted to see a letter from my employer (for a renewal?).
- Nathan (about 1 year ago)

Super quick passport return. All the consulate staff were professional and kind and helpful - just don't show up with big bags or large electronic devices. I recommend taking a book or something to read while standing in line.
- Steve (about 11 months ago)

The appointment was very quick - everything done and complete in 20 minutes. Visa was marked "approved" later that day, "issued" two days later and sent to DHL. DHL pick-up can be difficult as they want 24-48 hours to process the batch. My appointment was a Monday and had my passport with visa back by Friday afternoon.
- Nick (about 5 months ago)

Interviewed on Friday 5th. Missed one piece if paperwork which they allowed us to submit and we had it emailed to them by 2pm that day. Recieved receipt email late monday 8th afternoon. Status chaged from refused to administrative processing on wednesday 10th. Approved on friday 19th. Issued monday 21st. Its almost end of business tuesday and DHL still have not received them and require 24hrs after receipt before we can pick up... So if we are lucky we might be done in under 3 weeks..
- Scott (about 5 months ago)

Go down to DHL pickup 4 or 5 days after approval regardless of receiving notification or not - your passport is probably there waiting for you!
- Brett (about 2 months ago)

E3 Paris review: Booked 15 Feb appointment on 29 Jan 9:15am appointment, arrived at Embassy 8:45am, went straight in. Line moved really fast. Very friendly interview. Questions: - What company are you going to work for? - What’s your job there? - What qualifications do you have? - How long do you plan on being in the US Visa approved on the spot Officer said the passport would be returned in 1 week. 24 hours later I received the email saying the passport was ready to be picked up.
- Tim (about 2 years ago)

In and out of Embassy in 30 minutes. Just asked for LCA and job responsibilities
- (about 2 years ago)

The whole process took 20-30 minutes. They did not ask why I was renewing in paris and not australia. They did not ask to see my confirmation page of my ds160. The j1 renewal was $105.00. It was very smooth, professional, friendly and quick!
- Sophie (about 1 year ago)

There was a reciprocity fee that I had to pay on the spot, credit card (with ID) or exact cash only. Make sure you double check the amount.
- Paz (about 1 year ago)

Had a 24 day wait for the interview. Checked in on the day 15 minutes early on floor 4 (8:30am interview), security put our phones in a locker, then too us up to a higher floor, and took a ticket and sat down waiting to get called to one of the counters. After 5 to 10 minutes we were called up, asked for the DS-160 forms (mine and my Wife's), Passports, LCA, letter of offer, Marriage Certificate, Express post satchel, and degree. I don't have a degree and offered the equivalency assessment but was told to hang on to it. We were both finger scanned and told to sit back down and wait to be called. We waited about 15 minutes and were called to another counter, re-scanned one hand, asked when I started in my career (21 years ago), who I was going to work for and what they did. After only a few minutes there they told me we were approved, handed back most of the documents and to expect our Passports in 5 to 10 days. Tracking showed the Passports were posted at 14:03 that same afternoon and have the Passports 5 days later which included the weekend, otherwise I would have had them in 3 days. All were great people to deal with.
- Michael (about 2 years ago)

Had to book perth due to Xmas being a popular time for booking appointments. I used Tara Grey as my lawyer. First window i was asked very bluntly for what documents he wanted. LCA, letter of offer, Degree equivalency. then sit back down and waited for 20mins 2nd window, as 3 questions. Whats your role, are they a new company, what does the company do. Visa Approved, 8 days after i recieved my passport in the mail. Anyone doing degree equivalency, do it as soon as you can. Mine dragged out. But lastly, just relax, it was really an easy process. I was stressing like everyone else, but aslong as you have all the require paper work in order then you will pass.
- Nick (about 10 months ago)

Fast and efficient. You go back to collect your own passport when it's ready.
- Simone (about 2 years ago)

Super easy, you need an online visa to get into PNG though which can take a couple of weeks.
- Lisa (about 1 year ago)

A good spot to renew if you're remote working or looking for tropical weather and caipirinhas. You'll need some time on your hands compared to other spots. Rio requires three appointments start to finish: 1. biometrics 2. consular interview (both 1 and 2 scheduled when you submit your DS160) and 3. passport collection (you can't schedule this until they've finished processing). The process is all relatively predictable but for the third appointment for pick up. Depending on your luck the next appointment might be the following day, or another 5 days out, just for them to hand your passport back. This might be overcome by using their express delivery option. My renewal processing took 7 days, but from the first biometrics appointment to actual passport pick up, it was close to two weeks.
- Scott (about 2 years ago)

The consulate in Rio requires three appointments: one for biometrics (fingerprints and photograph), one for the interview itself, and one for passport collection. The consulate interview must be at least one day after biometrics collection. After the interview, I was notified 2-3 business days that I could book the passport collection appointment, and was able to collect my passport the next day. Biometrics and passport collection takes place in a separate ASC location (near Ipanema) from the consulate. Your can take your phone into the ASC location, but not into the consulate. The consulate does not have lockers for your phone, but there are people outside who will look after your phone for 10 reals - they are trustworthy and returned my phone immediately.
- Alex (about 1 year ago)

Stay in Ipanema
- (about 1 year ago)

Went in for our biometrics on Wednesday, went to consulate on Thursday and Monday 9am got an email to say our passports were ready for pickup.
- Marina (Saker) (about 1 year ago)

Simple process, fast turn around. Two appointments are needed (fingerprinting and then the visa interview). Both can be done in the same day if speed is a priority. Asked for an expedited pick up on the visa and they had it ready next day.
- Andrew (about 1 year ago)

The turnaround time in Rio remains quick as of March 2023. I did my appointment on a Tuesday morning and received my passport back on Thursday afternoon. I spent 5 nights in Rio in total (arrived 2 days before my appointment because there have been so many issues with flights lately), and the entire trip (including flights, accom and food) cost about $2500 USD. Allow at least 1.5 hours between your ASC appointment (photo and fingerprints) and consulate appointment as the locations are about 30 mins apart. You cannot bring your phone into the consulate. There are people outside who will hold your phone for you for 10 Reals ($2 USD). They are wearing high vis vests + army bags. I did get my phone back. Hardly anyone I encountered spoke English. It helps to use google translate on your phone and show things to people. Use short simple phrases so that the translation is clear. You will receive an email inviting you to pick up your passport when it is ready. You could get the email at any hour of the day. I got mine at 3pm and the ASC closes at 345pm so I jumped straight in an uber. You can only pick up your passport between the hours of 3 and 345, and you are meant to book an appointment (which might not be possible for a few days), although if you are nice to the people there, they will probably let you proceed to pick up your passport as long as you can show them the email. If you don't have the email yet and want to try pick up your passport, you can politely make an attempt to have them to check for you and finish the process on the spot. Rio does not feel particularly safe, especially if you are a woman travelling on your own. I am Asian, and I was frequently followed and harassed, with many of the comments relating to race. Having said that, if you are careful and stay somewhere safe, you will be ok. I stayed in Ipanema along the water, and so there were always a lot of people around and safe main roads to walk on. There are a lot of scams. If you take uber, make sure the driver ends the trip when you get out. If you pay cash, count your change. Do your research!
- T.S. (about 7 months ago)

The consulate in Rio requires 2 appointments: one for biometrics (fingerprints and photograph), one for the interview itself. I had biometrics scheduled for 7.15am and the Consular interview at 10am on the same day, 13th April, 2023. Reached the biometrics venue(ASC Centre) around 6.50am and stood in a line after 18-20 people, That biometrics center was efficient and we were out b 7.22am. Went back to hotel and reached the consulate at around 9.35 for the visa interview. Once we stood in the line to enter the consulate, a lady came in to check us in. Here one thing to remember is they won't let you take in mobile phone, smart watch inside the consulate. So while you are waiting in the line to enter the consulate look for few guys wearing blue and orange vests written "GUARDA VOLUMES". For a small fee(10 Brazilian Reals per item) they keep all your belongings. Ladies were not allowed to take their bags as well. Once they call your name, you get inside the consulate where an initial screening will be done. They will ask for your LCA(Form ETA-9035 & 9035E) and passport. We waited for 20 mins before we were asked to stand in a small line to be called by the Visa Officer. He asked few basic questions and told our visas were approved. Then I asked the officer if he can hand back our passports with the stamped visa by the next Monday because we will be leaving that night. He gave us a small yellow colored passport collection receipt and told to come to the Consulate next day at 2.30pm. We had our passports with the E-3 visa by 2.45pm the next day.
- Suman (about 6 months ago)

Rio is a great place to get your E3 visa if you have a week and are looking for somewhere on NYC time that’s affordable with great weather year-round and great food. Highly recommend staying in Ipanema. Here’s how my experience of an E3 renewal with my husband on an E3D renewal: Booked appointments - July 20 ASC Biometrics appt - July 24 (allow 1 hour) Consulate appt - July 25 (visa approved at appt; allow 2 hours) Visa marked as issued - July 26 Visa & Passport delivered to ASC - July 27 Visa available for pick up - July 28 PM (allow 20 mins) We didn’t schedule an appointment to pick up our passports and instead showed up after 3PM, where we were let in past security to plead our case to the staff at the center. They were so excited they could help us because I passports had been processed within the hour prior. A little stressful but it worked out. No phones or smart watches at the consulate appointment but the ASC allows them so long as they are switched off.
- Emily (about 2 months ago)

New E-3 appointment was booked one week beforehand for July 5. As you read from other reviews here I had to book fingerprints and the actual interview. Once I arrived at the US consulate I was put to the front of an outside queue because I was applying for an E3. Once inside I went through security and was asked to then wait. Inside they seemed confused where to send me for my interview but eventually they figured out where to place me. The interview was 5 minutes and I was asked a few questions about what I have a degree in, what is my profession and where I will be working. They didn't check any paperwork other than my DS-160 and passport. During the interview my E-3 was approved and was told it could take 10-14 days to be ready for pick up. I asked about an earlier pick up since I may have a flight. I asked about this at an admin desk and they gave me an email address to ask. After I left and emailed them I got a reply within a few hours saying the process couldn't be sped up and would need to wait for an email explaining the next steps. 3 business days (5 days total) later I got an email saying my visa had arrived at the pick up spot and I would need to BOOK again! The next availability was for 3 days time to schedule a pick up time. July 5-Interview, July 10 email saying passports ready, July 13 passport collected. Tips-Uber is cheap and reliable there, Rarely does anyone speak english, Ipanema the place to stay which is nicer and a bit more expensive, booking to pick up passports was a pain especially since I had to book a few days later but like others you might be able to risk going in earlier before your booked pick up slot.
- Jono (about 3 months ago)

You will need to pay the visa fee in KRW into their Korean bank account (ie cannot pay with credit card) it is easier if you can pay through a friend’s bank account. This is the key hassle, otherwise their turnaround time is super quick, usually next business day but allow one more day for a pick up.
- (about 1 year ago)

Renewed E3D at Shanghai location. The process was very simple except the payment of the visa application fees. It has to be processed using local bank or cash, I had few collogues who helped to process payment through bank so it worked out okay. Not all the staff at consulate understand English. We got the passport in 2 days.
- Bhavin (about 5 years ago)

Cannot recommend highly enough. I was done and had verbal approval of the visa 4 minutes after my allowed appointment arrival time (they let me in 15 minutes early.) The visa was available 24 hours later.
- Lana (about 2 years ago)

I wasn't expecting to pay a reciprocity fee ($1,790) and didn't have enough funds on me so had to return the next morning to complete the payment. This held up the processing by one day.
- Rebecca (about 2 years ago)

Very straight forward. I travelled from the US on business and renewed while I was there. I did have to get a local contact to pay for the appointment though.
- Chris (about 1 year ago)

Hello fellow Aussies, Just thought I share my (first) E-3 visa experience in Singapore: I initially started my application as the US visa/travel website had 4-days waiting periods but after I paid the visa fee on Sep-22, I came to find out that the earliest appointment I could book was on Jan-23. NOTE: For the US consulate in Singapore, I believe the appointment waiting period displayed is for Singapore residents and non-residents have longer waiting time (not sure if this is the same everywhere). Unfortunately, the only way I could find out the actual time period was after I had paid for the visa fee. I temporarily booked for Jan-23 and basically checked everyday for cancelled appointments and was able to bring it forward to 4th Oct 22. (Tip: I made sure to check for interview slots around 9/10am Singapore time as it seemed the visa portal was updated around this time of the day). On the interview day, I had my appointment at 9:45am and was out around 11am. The actual interview only lasted about a minute and most of it was just waiting and queuing up as there were around 30-applicants before me and only 1-staff processing the visa. Overall, the visa process was seamless and I would recommend it as an option if you are considering getting your E-3 in Asia. (I heard Brazil is currently at the top of the preferred destinations for E-3s). Also, not sure if my occupation made the visa decision easier but I am an Accountant by profession. After the interview, they recommended 4-5 days to collect your passport and you can check your passport status in the visa portal or by email. I had the interview on Tuesday and was flying back on Sunday. As I was running out of time, I went to the passport collection office on Friday to check if they had received my passport. I was lucky that they had and was able to collect it right away. (Tip: Do not wait for them to email you for collection and go to the collection office after 2-3 days from the interview date if you need the passport urgently). I would recommend allowing a week from the interview date if possible. If you have any other questions, happy to help. Cheers and all the best in your application (especially your first as it can be challenging). Sonny
- Sonny (about 1 year ago)

Appointment was not cancelled, but when I turned up they told me they weren’t taking any appointments due to construction (which was visible behind the security door). They would not reschedule my appointment to the next available time but instead ask me to do it myself which meant a 5+ month wait if done in Australia. I’ve only been to the Sydney consulate twice and both times were terrible experiences.
- Adam (about 1 year ago)

The hardest part of the process was actually getting the visa appointment - otherwise the process was super simple, including a 2 minute interview (so fast)! Also I had an email 24 hours later that I could pick up my passport - if it wasn't a weekend, you'd have it back 2 days after your appointment. Highly recommend
- Holly (about 1 year ago)

I had my appointment on Monday morning, by late Tuesday afternoon I received an email saying my passport was ready to collect. Collected it on the Wednesday morning. The interview itself went for less than five minutes. Very easy process overall.
- (about 1 year ago)

1) Note that the Embassy had recently moved and the some paperwork (and google maps) still refers to the Martin Place location. The new location is in North Sydney. 2) Also, a third party sent me the notification that my Visa was ready for collection (after 10 days) although I had selected mail as my option. The email came from an individual using email address [email protected] asking me to pay the delivery fee at a link (the link was incorrect the first time). Definitely felt scammy, but the passport did eventually arrive (albeit 4 days later).
- Kate (about 1 year ago)

No more prepaid Express Post Satchel. You will be emailed with instructions on where/how to pick up your passport when it's ready. They provide a delivery option for an additional cost. Do not bring large electronics as they may not fit in the lockers provided and you can't take them in with you. At the interview provide what they ask for, no more, no less. The interviewer will get testy if you start giving them your story.
- Alex (about 11 months ago)

March 2023. Smooth. Got the email the next day after my appt. Ready for pickup the day after that. Most annoying part is the queue outside north syd loc. The guards are not announcing what interview time they are up to and if you’re lined up down the street you basically can’t hear at all. The pickup spot is also a bit of a mess so I don’t recommend flying out on same day as pickup
- Chazza (about 7 months ago)

10+ days still awaiting E-3 Visa after being told it was approved and will be ready within a week. Haven't had any contact from the Consulate... I'll update length of time once actually received...
- Josh (about 7 months ago)

Overall a smooth experience and fast turnaround. The person at the counter when I handed over my paperwork informed me that I could have applied via mail rather than making an appointment. Which is helpful info for next time. He also said it would be a 7-10 day turnaround but I received the collection email after 2 days
- Beau (about 7 months ago)

It is okay to be a little late. There was a backlog. I was early but I still could not get in until everyone that was before my time (that arrived later) was called.
- Anonymous (about 7 months ago)

My E3 visa got approved on May 3rd in Sydney. Thanks all for your support. Appointment Timeline: 1. April 10th 2023- scheduled an appointment for June 2nd which was the earliest available. 2. kept checking for an earlier appointment availability, first rescheduled to May 17th and then again found an earlier date for May 3rd. 3. May 3rd- E3 visa approved *Questions at consulate:* 1. US employer offer letter 2. LCA 3. Questions on past visits 4. City of work Although I have a job offer, I may not go as the salary on offer is low when compared with Aus salaries. Let me know if you need any clarifications regarding the E3 visa process.
- Raj (about 5 months ago)

I was getting a new E3 as my employer changed but it was my 2nd E3
- Holly (about 7 months ago)

Very quick and smooth. Was advised 10 days but ended up being 2 days. I had an appointment on Monday so didn't have to worry about the weekend. Was moving from f1 to e3
- Anthony (about 4 months ago)

Appointment was on a Thursday at 9.45am, very straightforward (aside from not knowing you can't take laptops inside...my bad)... It was ready for collection the following day. I received the email saying it's ready for pickup at 12.05pm Friday. Unbelievably quick turnaround time. The man also told me that I should have just done mail-in as it would have been quicker and cheaper for me (instead of flying down from QLD for the appointment).... Hope this is helpful for anyone else contemplating in-person vs mail-in! I have also just decided to have my visa mailed to me so crossing my fingers it arrives this week (I had been planning to fly back down to Sydney to pick it up).
- Julia (about 1 month ago)

Wait time for booking appointment was only 3 weeks.
- JM (about 3 months ago)

My appointment was on Monday morning. When I got to the consulate there was a long line. But they call you in order of time so no need to worry. Just have to try and hear what times they are calling! The process inside was quick, just have your docs ready to hand over. I was told that my visa was approved at the end of my interview. I kept checking the status of my visa online. It went from “Approved” to “Issued” a week later on the Tuesday. I didn’t get the email to collect it until the next day. I chose to collect my passport myself which was in the city. That was very quick. Can only pick your passport up between 10am and 12pm but all flows very quickly.
- Jo (about 1 month ago)

Don’t bring a laptop! But if you do, the post office will hold it for $10.
- Amit (about 14 days ago)

I arrived at the Sydney Consulate at 7.45AM for an 8.15AM appointment on Monday. The interview was very basic, my visa was approved on the spot and I was out of the consulate at 8.45AM. Status showed as "Issued" on Tuesday and I was able to collect my Passport at 10am on Wednesday.
- Nina (about 14 days ago)

Be aware that the U.S. Consulate in Sao Paulo requires the biometrics to be done at a different location prior to the visa interview.
- Marco (about 1 year ago)

I went to Sao Paulo as Rio de Janeiro (where I attended for an E3R in October 2022) was unavailable. Rio was a wait of about a week or more but SP was just a day. Unfortunately I was on a standby international buddy ticket and I kept getting bumped off the flight so my problem was not the US Consulate or ASC, it was getting there on Delta. Anyway, I had to reschedule the appointment. It was originally ASC 20 June, US Consulate 21 June. I changed that to a day later for each. The ASC staff were very helpful. From memory their hours are about 0800 to 1700 M - F and also the only ASC centre in Brazil open on a Sunday (1200 - 1600). They take the photo there and the Consulate does the fingerprints. The Consular Officer was really only interested in the signed LCA and my appointment confirmation. I had all my supporting documents with me though and I advised both it was urgent and I had only delayed my booking by a day due to the fact of my delayed air travel. I explained myself well so be prepared to give a good, succinct account of what you need and why. Then I engaged in friendly chit-chat while she worked on my application. While the Consulate was unable to bring me in a day earlier both ASC and the Consulate expedited me in every way they could and like Rio de Janeiro was last year they were super helpful and friendly. My US Consulate appointment was on Thursday 22 June. The passport was ready overnight for collection Friday 23 June (which I didn't expect as the Consular Officer said it would most likely be ready Monday). I then travelled to Rio de Janiero to catch up with a friend and I could not get back in time to collect it on the Friday afternoon when I got the email saying it was ready about 0930 that morning, so I actually picked it up at the ASC Centre on the Sunday (open hours 1200 - 1600) since the ASC facility was closed on Saturday. Again the staff were super helpful. If you can afford the airfares right now (circa $3,500) Brazil is a great option. Taking TCN (Third Country Nationals) and only a short wait despite the numbers of Brazilians getting B1/B2 etc. on any given day. They like Aussies and we seem to get preferential treatment with our visa because it's a bit unusual. This is my 6th E3 I think now, and I am switching to a EB-2 NIW application for the Greencard. Good luck to all
- Adam (about 3 months ago)

I was able to get an appointment in Toronto within 3 weeks whereas it was a 3-6 month wait at other Canadian locations. I was asked to show my Canadian visa and LCA, and asked questions about my job and why it was a specialty occupation. I wasn't asked for my employment letter, proof of degree equivalency or passport photos but I had them all prepared anyway. The whole process took about 30 minutes and I had my passport back in four days.
- Tam (about 5 months ago)

My family and I are currently living in Canada (I am a PR and my wife and son are Canadian citizens as well as Australian citizens). We were therefore applying for my first E-3 from Canada. We are living in Victoria, BC so we were hoping to have the appointment in Vancouver, BC or Calgary, AB. However, the nearest appointment times available for those locations were 6+ months out so we opted instead for Toronto which had a few months' wait, even though it meant flying 5 hours across Canada. Positive Aspects of Toronto appointment: - The actual interview process was fast. We were in and out in less than one hour. - There is a convenience store down the street for people to leave their belongings for $10 if they have to bring their belongings/phones with them. - Apart from the rude security guards out the front, the staff in the Consulate were very friendly and helpful. Negative Aspects of Toronto appointment: - They were a bit confused by E-3 visa. They clearly don't get many of those. - Very busy and crowded, processing many hundreds of visa applicants in one session. - This was the biggest downfall, which would make me unlikely to use Toronto again: LONG WAIT AFTER INTERVIEW. At the interview, we were told the visa had been approved and within a week we would get a notification saying the passport has been shipped. One week later we still had not heard anything, and upon using the visa application checking tool (CEAC), we saw the status was still RECEIVED, not yet APPROVED. It ended up switching to APPROVED later that day, and then took another 4 days to move to ISSUED. It is now 12 days since the interview and I only just got my notification that the passport/visa has been shipped, so by the time I get the actual passport it will be more like 2 weeks. Which is stressful as we have travel planned next week.
- Dan (about 2 months ago)

Vancouver BC is THE BEST US Consulate in the world!! I had gotten my E-3 there originally back in December 2016 and the process was extremely smooth and I had my Visa processed and passport back in hand in less than 72hrs. For the next time mid 2018 (also changed jobs) there were no appts available in Vancouver so I went to the Bahamas, which was less smooth (My passport tracking was never updated and it was lost for an extra week - extremely stressed & skint because of unexpected expenses is not how I wanted to spend an extra week in Bahamas). But extra 8 days and it was sorted. Then it was time for my 2 year 'renewal' for mid 2020 and COVID hit.... Panic mode started March and didn't really end until June when I had my passport & visa physically in hand again. The Vancouver NIV Team was PHENOMENAL! During such an incredibly stressful time worldwide they were so responsive and supportive. Confirming eligibility for Emergency Appointment as an essential healthcare worker, helping to figure out whether I'd even be let through the border, advising on extra supporting documentation to get, corroborating the immigration lawyer advice about avoiding land borders during such difficult times, 20+ emails and 10+ phone calls. The day before my appointment on day 14 of my mandatory quarantine at an Airbnb 2 blocks from the consulate (unfortunately with views of the Trump Tower....) 'He' issues another visa announcement pausing most NIV class visas effective at midnight. Enter full scale panic attack and multiple phone calls to verify. One of those calls was to the contact I had made (one of the chief NIV Team officers at the consulate). Thankfully they were able to reassure me that they were following the guidance to a T and nowhere mentioned E-3 Visas. Phew!! I was safe and able to attend my appointment the next day and had it back, Visa processed, within 2 hours. Honestly I cannot stress how amazing they were!! It's that time again and we are still in this pandemic so I can only cross fingers that it goes smoothly this round and then I'll have another 2 years try to figure out a way I don't have to go through this Hoopla again. Haha!
- Deb (about 3 years ago)