Security Regulations

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Overview

You are not allowed to enter the U.S. Embassy or Consulate while carrying any of the following items:

  • Battery-operated or electronic devices such as mobile phones, digital diaries, digital watches, pagers, cameras, audio/video cassettes, compact discs, MP3s, floppy disks, laptops, or portable music players
  • Large shoulder bags/purses - only bags that can be carried by hand will be permitted
  • Bags such as travel bags, backpacks, briefcases, suitcases, leather, cloth bags, and zip folders - you can only carry plastic bags containing application-related papers
  • Food and liquid items
  • Sealed envelopes or packages
  • Cigarettes, cigars, match boxes, lighters
  • Sharp objects such as scissors, pen knives or nail files
  • Weapons or explosive materials of any kind
  • Valuables (gems, precious metals, etc.) or large amounts of cash

This list is not exhaustive. Other items may be prohibited at the discretion of security staff.

The Embassy has no storage available for holding applicants’ cell phones on the day of their interview, and there is no facility at the U.S. Embassy to store any of the other above listed prohibited items. Applicants should make arrangements to store these items before entering.

Due to security considerations, there is no information window for walk-in visitors at the U.S. Embassy. Only visa applicants with scheduled interviews will be admitted.

Information for visa applicants regarding novel coronavirus:

  • For the safety of applicants and Embassy staff, the Embassy will be taking measures to limit interaction and the exchange of items whenever possible. For this reason, your interview experience will be different than on previous visits. You must follow these rules, as well as all guidance given by the Embassy security, at all times.
  • Please do not show up more than 10 minutes early to your appointment. It is essential that we not have large groups in our waiting areas, so it is important that everyone arrive according to the appointed time.
  • The Embassy is not able to store any bags or belongings. Cell phones and other electronics are not allowed into the Embassy.  You must make arrangements so that you arrive at the Embassy with only your passport and required interview materials, including your photo. If you have electronics, bags, and wallets with you, you WILL NOT BE ALLOWED into the Embassy. The Embassy will not store any personal items on your behalf. If you come with any additional items, your appointment will be cancelled.
  • As with all visa interviews, only those applicants qualified for their visa per legal rules and requirements will be issued their visas. If granted an interview appointment, do not assume you are qualified for your visa.