latest embassy news 

U.S. Embassy Announces End of Special Visa Fees for Lithuanian Students, Exchange Visitors, and Temporary Workers

April 28, 2000

April 26, 2000, Vilnius - The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy has officially informed the Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs that the United States unilaterally has decided that it will no longer impose fees on the issuance of visas for students, temporary workers, exchange visitors (including those involved in the work and travel program), performing artists, religious workers, and others.  These fees were originally imposed because the Government of Lithuania charges a similar fee when U.S. citizens apply for these types of visa to come to Lithuania.  The visa application fee of $45 (180 litu) remains in effect.  All applicants for visas should expect to pay this fee.

The Consular Section reminds all applicants for visas of the following:

1. Get your interview appointment early.  Due to unprecedented demand for visas, the Consulate currently operates on a first-come, first-served appointment basis.  The waiting period varies; during peak travel season it is as much as four or five months.  You may come by the Embassy at Akmenu 6, with your passport 24 hours per day, seven days per seek, and get a sticker containing your interview date.

2. On your appointment date, please bring the following items with you: passport, photo, application fee of 180 litu or $45, payable in cash only; job documents, especially your Sodra book; job letter; bank statements for past six months; contract (if self employed); copies of your prior visas or visas of your spouse; petitions for students and/or exchange visitors.

Items that are not necessary during the visa interview:

a) Invitations from friends or relatives in America are not critical documents in the decision-making process.  Whether or not you get the visa will be determined by the strength of your ties to Lithuania -- not on an invitation or offer of support from    persons living in the U.S.

b) Entry forms downloaded from the Internet for conferences and/or fairs will not be considered.

FOR MORE INFORMATION REGARDING TRAVEL VISAS, PLEASE CALL 312-812