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Frequently Asked Questions Concerning the Business Visa Program
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  • What is the status of my company’s application to join the Business Visa Program?

    What is the status of my company’s application to join the Business Visa Program?

    • Once your company submits the required documents, the Consular Section reviews the completeness of the application and begins a security review. The time required for a complete evaluation varies, but we value highly your interest in joining the Program and therefore process the applications as quickly as we can. We will contact you as soon as we make a final decision or determine that we need additional information. You can always send us an e-mail to BusinessBogota@state.gov to obtain the status of your company’s application. If the application is approved, the Consular Section will send you an information package explaining the specific procedures new members must follow.
  • Can my company use the Business Visa Program to schedule appointments for other visa classifications (for example, study, investment, or long-term work visas)?

    Can my company use the Business Visa Program to schedule appointments for other visa classifications (for example, study, investment, or long-term work visas)?

    • No. The Business Visa Program is only for B-1/B-2 (temporary visitor for business or pleasure) or C-1/D (crew member/transit) visas.
  • My mother-in-law and my nephew would like to travel with me on my business trip to the United States. Can we use my employer’s membership in the Business Visa Program to obtain interview appointments for them?

    My mother-in-law and my nephew would like to travel with me on my business trip to the United States. Can we use my employer’s membership in the Business Visa Program to obtain interview appointments for them?

    • No. Only the employee, his or her married spouse, and his or her children under the age of 21 may obtain appointments for B-1/B-2 visas through the Program. In-laws, union libre partners, cousins, etc. are welcome to apply through the standard process of applying for a B-1/B-2 visa.
  • I had an interview several days ago and I still have not received my passport. Whom should I contact?

    I had an interview several days ago and I still have not received my passport. Whom should I contact?

  • I was denied a year ago when I applied for a B-1/B-2 visa through a regular appointment. Am I allowed to apply again with an appointment through my company’s membership in the Business Visa Program?

    I was denied a year ago when I applied for a B-1/B-2 visa through a regular appointment. Am I allowed to apply again with an appointment through my company’s membership in the Business Visa Program?

    • Each member company independently determines which employees to submit for visa appointments through the Business Visa Program. The Consular Section places no restrictions on appointment requests through the Program based on the outcome of prior visa decisions.
  • Where can I find answers to general questions about the B-1/B-2 visa?

    Where can I find answers to general questions about the B-1/B-2 visa?

  • Where can I find answers to general questions about the C-1/D visa?

    Where can I find answers to general questions about the C-1/D visa?

  • How do Business Visa Program members obtain additional information about the Program?

    How do Business Visa Program members obtain additional information about the Program?

    • Authorized representatives of Program members may send questions, complaints, or compliments on Program services to us by e-mail at BusinessBogota@state.gov.
  • I have feedback to share concerning the nonimmigrant visa process. How do I submit my comments to your office?

    I have feedback to share concerning the nonimmigrant visa process. How do I submit my comments to your office?

    • The Nonimmigrant Visa Unit welcomes your comments, complaints, compliments and suggestions concerning any and all aspects of the nonimmigrant visa process. Simply send us an e-mail at NIVBogota@state.gov with your feedback.