Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did the Embassy stop issuing visas in Mauritius?

Due to limited resources and a temporary, unplanned staffing gap, we do not have a permanent consular officer able to perform these services at this time.

Q: When will a Consul be able to issue a visa?

We anticipate being able to resume regular visa services by the beginning of June 2011.

Q: Is there no one in the Embassy able to “sign” a visa for me?

The visa process involves the online visa application form, an interview by the Consular Officer, fingerprinting of the applicant, further checks by different bureaus in Washington D.C., and possible additional requirements. Only upon completion of the entire process can an Embassy issue a U.S. visa.

Q: The website directs applicants to Johannesburg and Antananarivo. Will the Embassy in Mauritius do appointment bookings and coordinate with their counterparts there on behalf of the applicants?

Unfortunately, the Embassy in Port Louis cannot make appointment bookings nor coordinate with counterparts in the mentioned towns. Prospective travelers may apply at any U.S. Embassy, although it is up to the applicant to demonstrate ties to Mauritius to ensure that any stay in the U.S. would be temporary.

The link to the Embassy in Antananarivo is: http://www.antananarivo.usembassy.gov/non-immigrant_visas.html

The link to the Consulate General in Johannesburg is: http://southafrica.usembassy.gov/non-immigrant_visas.html

Q: Does the Embassy provide/recommend hotels in those two countries?

No, the Embassy cannot recommend hotels.  Applicants should plan to stay a few days to allow time for the visa to be processed.

Q: Does the Embassy realize that it costs a minimum of $1,000 per person to travel to either country to apply, with no guarantee of a visa being issued?

We deeply regret inconvenience to Mauritian and Seychellois applicants related to the Embassy’s inability to issue visas at this time.

Q: What will happen to the fees already paid at the Bank?

The fees are non refundable. The receipt is valid for a period of one year from the date of payment at the bank.

Q: Why are only official and student visas being issued, and not the other types?

Due to the current limited Consular resources, the Embassy can only consider processing those two types of visas.