Each visa application is unique. Most applicants are required to schedule an appointment to apply for a nonimmigrant visa. In limited cases visa applicants are not required to schedule a consular interview.

In South Africa, applicants who meet the specific criteria below may apply without scheduling an interview:

• The applicant's previous U.S. Visa must be currently valid or have expired less than one year prior to the date they submit their application.
• The applicant must be applying for a new B1/B2 visitor visa. This is the only visa eligible for the renewal process.
• The applicant must be applying at the Consular Section covering the applicant's place of residence.
• The applicant must have had all 10 fingerprints captured by a U.S. Embassy/Consulate during a previous visa interview. (Note: Consulates in South Africa only began taking 10 fingerprints in May 2008.)

Please note that the U.S. Embassy/Consulate reserves the right to interview any applicant for any reason. If the applicant's case requires an interview, the Consular Section will contact the applicant to schedule an appointment for an in-person interview.

Qualifying applicants should:

1. Register an account through this Web site and send the application(s) in by DHL courier.
   If couriering in documents the applicant will not need to schedule an appointment but must enter all personal data and information, including selecting a DHL pick-up location in this Web site. See "Courier Information" on the left-hand menu for details.
2. The application package sent via DHL must include:
• The complete DS-160 visa application
• Applicant's valid passport
• All appropriate documents
• MRV fee payment confirmation

Note: Applications will not be accepted if dropped off at the consular section, or by different courier. Applications for children must include a notarized statement of consent from each parent, and a copy of a parent's visa or VWP passport. See "Do I Need to Apply?" on the left hand menu for VWP information.