FREQUENTLY ASKED VISA QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Question: I would like to visit the United States.  How can I get a visa?
Answer If you would like to visit the U.S. as a tourist you will need a B-2 visa.  First, you must request an appointment by one of three ways: 

• e-mail the U.S. Embassy in Tirana at _{^{EvisaTirana@state.gov}}; 
• fax a request at 355 4 374 957;
• or write a letter to U.S. Embassy Tirana, Rruga Elbasanit, 103, Tirana, Albania.
  (See _^here for more detailed instructions on how to apply)
  

Question: How much does the visa costs?  Will I get my money back if I’m refused?
Answer Application fee is $100 USD or equivalent in Lek.  Everyone who applies for a U.S. visa, anywhere in the world, must pay this fee.  It is non-refundable even if you are not issued the visa. 

Question: What does a consular officer look for when determining if a person will be issued a visa?

Answer  Consular officers consider the applicant’s personal circumstances, travel plans, financial resources and ties outside of the United States that will ensure departure after a temporary visit. 

Question: The last time I was there they refused me, if I provide more documents will I be issued next time?

Answer Applying for a non-immigrant visa is not primarily a document-based process.  The most important aspect is making the determination of the likelihood that the applicant has sufficient social and/or economic ties that would ensure the applicant will not overstay, seek employment or use the visa for a purpose not stated when making application.

Question: How long can I stay in the United States?
Answer  The period of validity of a visa relates only to the length of time you may travel to the United States.  U.S. immigration authorities have the sole right to grant entry into the United States and to determine the amount of time you may stay.  For example, one-year visa validity does not mean you may automatically remain in the U.S. for one year.
 
Question: I would like study in the U.S.  What do I do?
Answer  In order to qualify for a student visa, the applicant must be admitted to a recognized educational institution. Once a student is admitted, the school will issue a document called an "I-20." This document specifies the exact school and program to which the student has been admitted and how much the tuition and living expenses will cost. In order to qualify for the visa, the applicant must demonstrate that s/he has sufficient funds or other means to pay the tuition and living expenses.

Question: How can I get an exchange visa?
Answer Exchange visa are similar to student visas in that the American institution must issue the applicant a form that specifies the nature and duration of the exchange (DS-2019).  You will be required to demonstrate that you intend to return to Albania to share what you’ve gained from your cultural exchange in the U.S.

Question: What is the procedure for applying for the Diversity Visa Lottery Program?
Answer Every fall the Department of State announces the enrollment period for the Lottery Program, usually it is for the months of October and November.  Your application must be electronically transmitted.  (See _^here for more detailed information)