Most applicants instructed to provide fingerprints and a photograph must attend an appointment at a Visa Application Center (VAC) before visiting the U.S. embassy or consulate. Depending on the country, the facility may also be called an Applicant Service Center or Offsite Facilitation Center.
Visa Application Centers are operated by contractors authorized by the U.S. Department of State to support visa application processing. CGI Federal provides support for nonimmigrant and immigrant visas in 25 countries across Europe and Asia through 2032. A CGI Federal visa appointment system may be used in locations served by the contractor.
Not every applicant must visit a VAC. Fingerprint and photograph procedures vary by country, visa category, age, and application location. Follow the instructions provided through the official appointment system and the U.S. embassy or consulate processing the application.
Scheduling a VAC Appointment for a U.S. Visa
Complete the required visa application form before beginning biometric fingerprint scheduling. Nonimmigrant visa applicants should submit Form DS-160 and keep the confirmation page containing the barcode.
The VAC appointment US visa process varies by application location. The appointment system will show if a VAC visit is required, where to attend, and when the visit must occur. Use only the appointment provider identified by the embassy or consulate.
Walk-in services are not available unless the VAC instructions state otherwise. Do not arrive more than 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time.
Documents to Bring to a VAC Appointment
For your VAC appointment, bring the following documents:
- Current passport
- Previous passport, if it contains your current or most recent U.S. visa
- Appointment confirmation page
- DS-160 confirmation page
- Photocopies of the parents’ valid visas in the same category for a child applicant, when required
Category-specific supporting documents may include:
- J-2 applicants: copy of Form DS-2019
- H-4 and L-2 applicants: copy of Form I-797, copy of the primary applicant’s visa
- C-1/D and D applicants: copy of the joining letter, Original Continuous Discharge Certificate
Applicants should also review the appointment confirmation for any additional location-specific requirements.
Visa Application Center Security Measures
Follow the same security measures as the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
VACs conduct security screening before allowing applicants to enter. Review the rules for the appointment location before traveling.
In general, do not bring food, drinks, or cosmetics. Completely power off your mobile phone and other electronic devices before entering the center.
After entering, you may need to empty your pockets, hand over your bags for inspection, and pass through a metal detector. Prohibited items may be confiscated and discarded.
At the VAC
When you arrive at the VAC, staff will direct you to the appropriate queue. Keep your passport and DS-160 confirmation page ready for verification. After the documents are checked, you will receive a number or be directed to the biometric collection area.
Fingerprinting and Photograph
After security screening, wait in line or until your number is called. Procedures vary by center. When directed to the counter, present your passport and DS-160 confirmation page.
VAC staff will take a digital photograph and collect your fingerprints electronically. Follow the staff member’s instructions during each step.
Bring a printed photograph when required by the appointment instructions. Requirements for children vary by age and application location, so review the instructions issued for the child’s application.
After biometric collection, staff will record completion of the VAC appointment and return the documents provided during processing.
