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Visas

Visa Services

Welcome to the U.S. Embassy Harare Consular Section website. The Embassy processes visas for applicants who normally reside in Zimbabwe.

We are located inside the U.S. Embassy, 172 Herbert Chitepo, Harare.

Please Note: The American Embassy offices are closed on Zimbabwe and US public holidays.  Click here to see a list of dates.

*Applications for both immigrant and non-immigrant visas require a personal interview, by appointment only.  No one may accompany applicants, with the exception of minor children, who may bring a parent or adult.

What is a Visa?

A citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa. This visa can be a nonimmigrant visa for a temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence.

A visa is issued by a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. A visa entitles the holder to travel to the United States and apply for admission; it does not guarantee entry. An officer of the Immigration and Naturalization Service at the port of entry determines the visa holder's eligibility for admission into the United States.

For information on U.S. visa requirements, including studying, doing business or just visiting, please visit the U.S. State Department visa information page:  http://travel.state.gov/visa/index.html

Citizens of countries within the Visa Waiver Program do not require a visa if their passports conform to certain standards. In addition, beginning January 12, 2009, all Visa Waiver Program travelers will be required to obtain a travel authorization via the Electronic System for the Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to traveling to the United States.

If you forgot to return your I-94 form when exiting from the United States, please visit this website for information:http://cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/id_visa/

Security Notice

Please do not bring electronic devices (mobile phones, radios, recorders, computers, PDAs, cameras, walkmans, etc.) with you when you come to the U.S. Consulate General. You and your effects will be screened at the entrance. Prohibited items are not allowed entry. Bringing such items will delay your entry and may cause you to miss your appointment. 

Penalties for Misrepresentation 
 
Please keep in mind that your signature on any visa application form is your guarantee that all information you provide is true and correct.  You are personally and legally responsible, even if a travel agent or someone else prepares documents for you.  Any fraudulent documents or misleading statements may result in your permanent ineligibility for any future visa.

Warning

Please note that the Embassy does not deal with so-called visa brokers or visa fixers. Anyone who claims they can guarantee visa issuance or expedite visa processing is lying. The Embassy treats allegations of fraud or malfeasance in visa processing very seriously.  If you have specific information about an incidence of fraud or malfeasance, please contact our office at consularharare@state.gov or call 04-250-593.