Apply for an Expedited Appointment

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Overview

If you have an unforeseen travel need as per one of the criteria listed below, you may qualify for an expedited appointment depending on availability at the U.S. Embassy.

While following the request process, you will have the opportunity to justify the emergency appointment request.  You will be notified of the Consulate’s decision by email. It is important to ensure you meet all the criteria, because applicants are only allowed to create one expedited appointment request.

Qualifications

Before you apply for an expedited appointment, you must ensure that you have documentary evidence to prove the urgency. If it appears during your visa interview that you misrepresented the reasons for urgent travel, such facts will be noted on your case file and may adversely influence the outcome of your visa application. All applicants requesting an expedited appointment are required to first pay visa fees for a regular visa appointment. Applicants who are granted an expedited appointment but subsequently refused a visa at the U.S. Embassy will not be allowed to utilize this option to obtain another expedited appointment.

Medical Need

Purpose of travel is to obtain urgent medical care, or to accompany a relative or employer for urgent medical care.

Essential documentation:

  • A letter from your doctor describing the medical condition and why you are seeking medical care in the United States.
  • A letter from the physician or hospital in the United States indicating that they are prepared to treat the case and providing the approximate cost of the treatment.
  • Evidence of how you will pay for the cost of the treatment.
Supporting Immediate Family Member in the United States with Grave Illness

Purpose of travel is related to an immediate relative (mother, brother, sister or child) in the United States facing death, grave illness or life-threating condition. 

Essential documentation:

  • A letter from the hospital or physician providing the status of the family members medical condition.
  • Evidence of immediate relative relationship.
Diplomatic Travel

Lebanese officials and diplomats traveling to the United States for urgent official meetings or Lebanese diplomats traveling to assignments at diplomatic missions in the United States

Applying for an Expedited Appointment

Step 1

Complete the Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) form.

Step 2

Submit a request to BeirutNIV@state.gov explaining how you meet the criteria and submit supporting documentation. 

Step 3

If the U.S. Embassy approves your request then you will receive an email scheduling your appointment.  Should the U.S. Embassy deny your request for an expedited appointment, you will be notified of the denial by email and you may apply when routine nonimmigrant visa appointments resume. 

Step 4

Visit the U.S. Embassy on the date and time of your visa interview. You will need to bring a printed copy of your appointment letter, your Form DS-160 confirmation page, one photograph taken within the last six months, your current and all old passports and supporting documents. Applications without all of these items will not be accepted. You will be instructed to pay the visa fee at the Embassy prior to your interview.