Azerbaijan, Baku / Trend / On 5 November, 2007, the US Embassy Baku Consular Section will begin using an online, internet-based system for making non-immigrant visa appointments, the Embassy reports.
The Department of State has tested the online NIV appointment system in several Embassies and is in the process of expanding the program worldwide.
The transition from a phone-based to an internet-based appointment system will allow applicants the opportunity to schedule or change their appointments at any time, any day of the week. In order to use this system, visa applicants will need to access the Embassy website at http://azerbaijan.usembassy.gov , complete the Electronic Visa Application Form (EVAF) and then schedule their appointment.
Once the appointment is scheduled, the applicants need to print out the appointment confirmation form and bring it to the Embassy on the day of their appointment. Appointments may be scheduled up to 120 days in advance.
The number of Azerbaijani citizens receiving visas to the US has increased by 16% as compared to last year. Last year, the Embassy provided 3,000 visas, but 3,500 visas are expected to be given by the end of this year. The people receiving visas as tourists made up 25%, and students comprised 31%. The Azerbaijani students who went to the US did so to obtain an education.