Change in Visa Application Procedures: Fingerprinting

The Enhanced Border Security and Visa Entry Reform Act requires all U.S. Embassies and Consulates all over the world no later than October 26, 2004, to issue visas with biometric identifiers. This change is one of many new regulations designed to provide greater U.S. border security. All U.S. Embassies and Consulates have been instructed to implement this policy as soon as computer hardware and software upgrades can be made. The U.S. Embassy in Tallinn has now made those upgrades. Other U.S. missions in the area will follow.

The U.S. Embassy in Estonia plans has incorporated fingerprinting in the visa application process. All visa applicants, with only very limited exceptions, will be fingerprinted at the beginning of their visa interview.

The entire process takes less than 30 seconds, and utilizes an inkless, electronic fingerprint scanner. The cost of applying for a U.S. visa remains unchanged. As we implement this policy in Tallinn, we hope to minimize the inconvenience for our customers.

Click here for additional information, application guidelines and application forms. Comprehensive information about American visas is also available on the Internet at http://www.unitedstatesvisas.gov