US Embassy in Lithuania & Latvia Moves Visa Processing Services to Sweden

If you’re a Lithuanian or Latvian citizen dreaming of visiting the United States, there’s some important news you need to know! Starting December 2, 2024, both Lithuania and Latvia will no longer process US visa applications locally. Instead, applicants will have to travel to Stockholm, Sweden, for their visa interviews. Let’s break down what this means for you and how to navigate this new process.

Why the Change in US Embassy visa processing services?

The decision to centralize visa processing in Stockholm is aimed at streamlining operations and improving efficiency. The US Embassy in Stockholm already handles immigration visas for Denmark and Norway, so they have the experience and resources to manage applications from the Baltic states as well. This move is part of a broader trend where many US consular offices are consolidating visa processing to reduce waiting times and improve service quality.

What Types of Visas Are Affected?

This shift will impact several visa categories, including:

Family reunification visas: For those wanting to bring family members to the US.
Green Card visas: For permanent residency applications.
K-type visas: For fiancé(e) visas.
V92/V93 visas: Specifically for asylum and refugee family members.

Both the US Embassy in Vilnius and the one in Riga will stop accepting these applications after December 2. So if you’re planning to apply for any of these visas, make sure you’re prepared for a trip to Sweden!

What Should Applicants Expect?

Traveling to Stockholm for your visa application might seem daunting, but it’s essential to know what to expect:

Appointment Scheduling: You’ll need to schedule your appointment through the US Embassy in Sweden’s website. Be sure to do this well in advance, as appointment slots may fill up quickly due to increased demand.
Visa Wait Times: Currently, wait times for visa appointments in Stockholm are significantly longer than in Vilnius. For example, applicants may face a wait of up to 21 days for student or tourist visas compared to just one day in Vilnius. So plan accordingly!
Documentation: Ensure that you have all necessary documents ready before your appointment. This includes your passport, application forms, and any supporting documents related to your visa type.
Travel Considerations: Don’t forget about travel arrangements! Make sure you have a plan for getting to Stockholm and accommodations if needed.

What About Current Applications?

If you’ve already completed your visa interview in Vilnius before December 2, don’t worry! Your application will still be processed locally in Lithuania. However, any new applications submitted after this date must be directed to the embassy in Sweden.

US Embassy visa processing services

This change reflects a growing trend among US embassies worldwide. Many countries with multiple consular offices are moving towards centralized processing systems. This approach not only helps manage workloads more effectively but also aims to reduce waiting times for applicants across various regions.

Final Thoughts

While this shift may require some adjustments for Lithuanian and Latvian citizens applying for US visas, it also opens up opportunities for improved service quality at the embassy in Sweden. As with any significant change, staying informed is key.

Before making any plans or decisions regarding your visa application, always check the official US Embassy website for the most current information on fees and requirements. Keep in mind that we are not responsible for any differences in costs or procedures that may arise.

So gear up for your trip to Stockholm! With a little preparation, you’ll be one step closer to making your American dream a reality. Safe travels!

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