In the last Ask the Consul article we discussed how to find visa information at https://do.usembassy.gov/, how to complete a nonimmigrant visa application (DS-160) at https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/, and how to create a profile at www.ustraveldocs.com/do.
After completing those steps, you are ready to pay the application fee and schedule your appointments. Logon to www.ustraveldocs.com and open the profile you created. Select the class of visa you are requesting. The visa category you select here must match the category you selected on your DS-160.
The class of visa you select is determined by your purpose of your travel. Are going for business, tourism, study, etc.? At this point, you can also add any family members who will be applying together with you. Once the category is selected, you’ll be asked a series of follow up questions regarding any previous visas you may have had, and will be taken to a payment confirmation page that lists the total amount to be paid.
Print the payment confirmation page and follow the instructions to pay online with a credit card or visit any branch of Banco Popular within 24 hours to pay the fee in Dominican pesos.
When the fee is paid, you will receive a receipt with your reference number within 24 hours. The reference number cannot be replaced if it is lost. Now you are ready to schedule your appointment. You will not be able to schedule an appointment without your reference number.
You may schedule appointments through our call center at 829-565-5144 or by returning to www.ustraveldocs.com/do. Scheduling appointments are similar to making an airline reservation. Click on the most convenient date for you and select a convenient time for the appointment. If you need an appointment at the Embassy, which most applicants do, the first appointment to schedule is the Embassy appointment, then choose an earlier date for the appointment to take your fingerprints and photo at the Visa Applicant Center (VAC) appointment.
After setting your appointments, print the appointment confirmation sheet and put it together with your DS-160 form and your passport and you’re ready for your appointments. In the next Ask the Consul article, we’ll go over what to expect at the VAC.
