A change in the Visa Waiver Program from 12th Jan 2009

[Lifemagician]

Is anyone aware if there are any changes to the other visas?

My visa is due for renewal before my next trip. No idea what it was called, but it was for five years, and allowed for a 26 week stay per entry.

It is very hard to get any info from the local US Consulate... I find their website very confusing.

Perhaps I should write an old fashioned letter.

[Midwest Michael]

As far as I know, this particular change only affects those entering the US under the Visa Waiver Program. I'm not aware of any other specific changes to other visas.

If you are having trouble figuring things out, rather than writing a letter, I think I would be making phone calls or even traveling to the consulate's office so you can find someone who can answer your questions.

[Lifemagician]

I would be making phone calls or even traveling to the consulate's office so you can find someone who can answer your questions.

Michael, not sure if all US Consulates are the same, but the US Consulate in Melbourne cannot be contacted by telephone. There is a recorded message referring to the website. Calling in at the building, there is security at the front door (even though the Consulate is on the 12th floor), and if you do not have an appointment, are not allowed in, and are referred to the website.

I am just hoping that a letter will not be rejected and returned to me.

Lifey who finds them extremely frustrating

[glc]

Perhaps you should be contacting the embassy in Canberra?

[UKCraig]

There is probably more chance getting inside a high security prison without an invite than getting inside the American Embassy in Canberra. I have not seen so many armed men since I watched Rambo. The British Embassy is the same and really goes to demonstrate the success of our foeign policy!

Lifey, you have probably seen it already but this site seems to answer most visa related questions (except where I find the money to pay my bil this month unfortunately!)

[Lifemagician]

Thanks Craig... site looks familiar. LOL One thing I learned this time, that it actually gave me the name of the Consul General. Perhaps if I address a letter to him personally, I may get somewhere.

It is obvious if one can't get to a Consul in Melbourne, there is no way one could get to an Embassy in Canberra... and I am not even referring to a day's driving.

Been there, done that!

What frustrates me is that everything refers to 'applying' for a visa, I am looking for information on 'renewing' a visa. I was told there is a difference. But that's as far as I got.

And since it is now 100 days to departure, I better do something about it. They are not exactly known for speed and efficiency. And no way will I mail my passport to them.

Tomorrow......................

[UKCraig]

According to this site:

Q: What should the applicant do to renew a Visa?
A: There is no provision in the U.S. law, under which a U.S. visa can be renewed. The applicant should apply for a fresh visa.

[Eris]

.
Official ESTA Website - Applications

Official US Government - FAQ’s

I’m a member of a consumer organisation and feedback from them points out there are unofficial sites – here for example - with similar names to the official site, who charge a fee which is unnecessary.

Not only are you charged a fee but there is the down side of providing them with your personal details which can have a down side.

Therefore just to emphasis, the ESTA process itself is free and comprehensively explained by the US government on its website which should be consumers’ first port of call.’

[glc]

I wasn't suggesting that you should try to *visit* the US Embassy in Canberra - simply see if you can contact them by phone!

[Lifemagician]

simply see if you can contact them by phone!

Only possible with fax or post. And I do not have access to a fax.