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Except as noted below, every person going to the United States must obtain a visa before traveling. Different types of visas may be issued depending on the purpose of the trip:

Business/Tourism (B1 & B2 Visas): Persons traveling to the US for a short period of time for business or tourism must obtain a B1 or B2 visa. These visas are generally issued for short, temporary stays in the US for specific purposes. For additional information see the handout, "Business and Tourism Visas." Official/Government Travel (A & G Visas): Persons traveling to the US on official government business may not apply directly at the Embassy for a visa. All visa applications for official travel must go through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. For additional information see the handout, "Official/Government Visas" and contact the Ministry. Studying in the US (F1 Visas): Students who have been accepted to study at accredited educational institutions in the US must present an approved Form I-20 and obtain an F1 Visa before traveling. For more information see the handout, "Student Visas." Other Visas: Applicants who are transiting the US or who are recipients of petitions for E, H, J, L, or M visas should complete an application form and apply during regular consular hours. Recipients of immigrant visa petitions should see the Handout "Becoming a US Citizen."

• The consular section is open for visa processing Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. All applicants (except children included in a parent's passport) must appear in person to be interviewed. If approved, visas will be available the same day and may be picked up either by the applicant or his/her representative between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m.
  
  
• Every applicant must complete an application form (DS-156), and present one recent (37 mm X 37 mm) full-face photograph. Male applicants between 16 and 45 years of age must also complete the form DS-157. The application must be signed by the applicant. Applicants must also present a passport valid for at least six months.
  
  
• There is a $65 (payable in CFA) non-refundable processing fee per application. A visa issuance fee may also apply depending on the nationality of the applicant.
  
  
• Eligibility requirements and necessary documentation vary for each visa type. See handouts on specific visas for more information.
  
  
• European Union citizens (including all French passport holders) need not obtain a visa in advance to travel to the US on business or tourism for periods of less than three months.

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