If you’re planning a trip to the United States, your visa interview at the US Embassy in London is one of the most important steps in the visa application process. Many applicants underestimate the importance of the interview and fail to prepare to be questioned, or fail to bring the right supporting documents, leading to unnecessary denials. But the decision made during your interview will determine whether you can proceed with your plans, or if you need to consider alternatives.

Demand for visa appointments at the US Embassy in London is also consistently high, which can also impact your plans if you are facing a lengthy wait time.

In this guide for US visa applicants, we set out the key information to make your visa appointment and tips to help make this part of the application process run smoothly.

 

US Embassy in London Contact Details

 

If you’re applying for a US visa from the UK, you will in most cases be required to attend a visa interview at the US Embassy in London.

The Embassy in London is located at:

Embassy of the United States of America
33 Nine Elms Lane
London
SW11 7US

The visa interview follows submission of your visa application form and payment of the requisite application fee(s).

The visa appointment is a critical stage in your application for a US visa. The adjudicating Consular officer will be looking to assess your eligibility and credibility as a visa applicant.

 

Do you need to attend a visa interview?

 

Non-US nationals between the ages of 14 and 79 applying for an American visa will generally be required to attend a visa interview in-person in their home country. The interview will be with a Consular officer, who will review your documentation and ask you questions about the information provided in your application and your plans while in the USA.

The visa interview is usually the final stage of the visa application process, after which a decision will be made. In cases where the Consular officer is unable to make a decision on your application based on the interview or the documents provided, they may put your application into Administrative Processing.

 

How to make your US visa appointment in London

 

Interviews are by appointment only and must be scheduled in advance.

To book a visa interview, you have to use the official Visa Appointment Service online booking system. You will need to create an account on the website and pay the fee(s).

You cannot make an appointment by email.

When making your booking, you will be offered the soonest date available.

The online system will show a calendar of available appointments relating to your visa category in real-time. Applicants are advised to keep checking the system, as new appointments are added to the system as they become available, for example, due to cancellations.

When you make your appointment, ensure you note the following details for future reference:

 

• Appointment password – the Embassy does not keep this information
• Your appointment confirmation number
• Time and date of your appointment

 

 

Are emergency visa appointments available at the US Embassy in London?

 

A limited number of expedited appointments are available on a discretionary basis in exceptional, urgent and unforeseen circumstances, such as medical emergencies.

You can request an expedited interview on the Visa Appointment Service website. You will be asked to provide reasons why you need an emergency appointment to travel urgently.

 

US visa appointment waiting times

 

Currently, the estimated wait time for a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment in London is approximately 3 days, with an additional 7 days for administrative processing.

For the most current information on appointment availability and processing times, applicants are encouraged to take professional advice, and consult the US Embassy in London’s official website or the US Department of State’s visa wait times page. This is particularly important for those with expiring visas or individuals planning to travel while their passport is retained for visa issuance.

Please note that after a visa is approved during the interview, the average processing time is 3-5 working days, with an additional 2-3 working days for passport delivery.

Given the potential for delays, it’s advisable to plan accordingly and schedule visa appointments well in advance of intended travel dates.

 

US visa fees

 

You will not be able to make your visa appointment until you have paid the relevant visa application fee. Fees vary, depending on which category you are applying under. For the most current information on visa fees and appointment scheduling, applicants should consult the US Department of State’s official website or the website of the US Embassy or Consulate where they plan to apply.

The standard validity period for Machine-Readable Visa (MRV) fees is 12 months from the date of payment. Applicants are required to schedule and attend their visa interview within this timeframe; otherwise, a new MRV fee payment will be necessary.

 

US visa supporting documents to bring to the interview

 

Given the current protracted waiting times, applicants should ensure they are fully prepared for their interview. This includes understanding which supporting documents to bring with you to the appointment.

You would typically need to bring:

 

Required Document	Description
Appointment Confirmation Letter	A printed copy of the confirmation letter for your scheduled visa appointment
Valid Passport	Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of arrival in the US
Photograph	A visa-compliant photograph meeting USCIS requirements (2 inches x 2 inches). UK standard passport photos do not meet these requirements
Application Form Confirmation Page	A printed confirmation page of the completed online visa application form
Receipt for Fee Payment	Proof of payment for the visa application fee
Proof of Eligibility	Supporting documents that demonstrate your eligibility for the visa classification you are applying for

 

In addition, you may also need to bring documentation relevant to the visa category you are applying under. The E-2 visa, for example, requires a business plan.

You may also need to bring certain documents because of your personal circumstances, such as your travel history. For example, if you are applying for a temporary work visa such as the L-1 visa, you would need to detail your professional qualifications and provide confirmation and details of the role you would be taking on in the US. If you are applying for a visitor visa, you would be expected to provide details of your travel itinerary and proof that you have the funds to support yourself for the duration of your trip, you should confirm where you will be staying while in the US and provide evidence to assure that you will leave the US at the end of your trip and before the expiry of your visa.

Taking advice can ensure you take sufficient and comprehensive documents that best evidence your eligibility to the consular officer and avoid delays or refusals due to insufficient evidence.

 

Photographs for your interview

 

It may be necessary to provide a physical photo at your interview. Not all embassies or consulates require this, so it is best to confirm if this is a requirement before your interview.

If you do need to provide a photograph, ensure it meets the US visa standards. Note that the US photograph specification is different to that of UK standards:

 

• Color and Quality: The photo must be in color, printed on photo-quality paper.
• Size: 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm).
• Head Position: Your head should be centered within the frame, measuring between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (25 mm to 35 mm) from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head.
• Recency: Taken within the last six months to reflect your current appearance.
• Background: Plain white or off-white, free from shadows or patterns.
• Pose and Expression: Directly facing the camera with a neutral expression and both eyes open.
• Attire: Wear clothing normally worn on a daily basis. Uniforms are not acceptable unless religious attire is worn daily.
• Head Coverings: Head coverings are not allowed except for religious purposes. In such cases, ensure that the full face is visible, and no shadows are cast on the face.
• Eyeglasses: As of November 1, 2016, eyeglasses are not permitted in visa photos, except for medical reasons. If medically necessary, a signed statement from a medical professional is required.
• Accessories: Headphones, wireless hands-free devices, or similar items are not acceptable in your photo.

 

If you need to print out the photo, you should use photo quality paper. Both matte and glossy photo paper are acceptable.

Online application forms for nonimmigrant visas will require you to upload a digital format photo. There are further requirements for your photo in digital form. These are:

 

• Dimensions: The image must be in a square aspect ratio, with a minimum acceptable dimension of 600 x 600 pixels and a maximum of 1200 x 1200 pixels.
• Color: The image must be in color (24 bits per pixel) in sRGB color space, which is the common output for most digital cameras.
• File Format: JPEG (.jpg) file format.
• File Size: Equal to or less than 240 kilobytes (kB).
• Compression: If necessary, image compression should be less than or equal to a 20:1 ratio.
• Quality: The photo must not be digitally enhanced or altered to change your appearance in any way.

 

While you are at the Embassy, you will also be required to submit your biometric information; a set of your fingerprints will be electronically scanned.

 

How long will the interview last?

 

In general, you should allocate two to three hours for your time at the Embassy.

The length of the interview itself will depend on the complexity of your application, the volume and quality of your supporting documentary evidence and how quickly the consular officer is able to make a decision.

For common applications, such as tourist visas, interviews may only last only a few minutes. Work visa applications can take longer as there will be more extensive supporting documents to cover. The E-2 visa, for example, requires a detailed business plan to be submitted.

Being prepared for the interview by considering the questions you could be asked and having a comprehensive bundle of supporting documents will usually help to reduce the interview length.

You will not be permitted entry into the Embassy more than 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment.

 

Passport return

 

After attending your visa interview at the US Embassy in London, if your visa application is approved, your passport will be retained by the embassy for visa issuance. The embassy utilizes an approved courier service to return your passport and visa to you. To facilitate this process, you must register with the courier service prior to your interview to ensure timely delivery. 

The typical processing time for returning your passport is within two weeks from the date of your interview. However, many applicants report receiving their passports sooner, often within 5 to 7 business days. Processing times can vary based on individual circumstances and the embassy’s workload. It’s advisable not to make travel plans until you have received your passport with the issued visa.

 

Canceling your US visa appointment

 

It is possible to rearrange or cancel your appointment in advance of the interview date via the Embassys official visa appointment service. It’s important to make any changes in advance of your scheduled interview date to avoid potential complications. However, procedures for rescheduling or canceling appointments may vary based on visa categories and individual circumstances, so it is recommended to refer to the specific guidelines provided during your application process, consult the embassy’s official website for detailed instructions or take professional advice.

Be aware that the Machine-Readable Visa (MRV) application fee is non-refundable and non-transferable. If you cancel your appointment and do not reschedule within the fee’s validity period, you may forfeit the fee and need to pay again for a new appointment.

 

Preparing for your US visa interview appointment

 

To increase your chances of success at your US visa interview appointment at the US Embassy in London, it’s essential to prepare thoroughly. A strong understanding of the process and what to expect can help you present yourself confidently and avoid common pitfalls.

 

Know Your Purpose of Travel

One of the most important aspects of the interview is explaining the purpose of your trip. Be ready to clearly and confidently explain why you’re traveling to the US, whether it’s for tourism, business, study, or any other purpose. Consular officers want to ensure that your intended activities align with the type of visa you’re applying for. Be honest, concise, and consistent in your answers.

 

Have Your Documents in Order

Gather all required documents well in advance of your appointment. This typically includes your passport, DS-160 application confirmation page, appointment confirmation letter, visa fee receipt, and any supporting documents related to your visa type, such as proof of finances or ties to your home country. Keep your documents organized and easily accessible to present them promptly when requested.

 

Arrive on Time and Follow Security Procedures

Punctuality is crucial. Arrive at the embassy no more than 15 minutes before your scheduled interview time. Allow extra time for travel to account for possible delays. Be aware of security procedures, which prohibit items like electronics, large bags, and liquids. Follow all instructions from embassy staff to ensure a smooth check-in process.

 

Present Yourself Professionally

Your appearance and demeanor can leave a lasting impression. Dress in professional attire that conveys respect for the process. Be polite, courteous, and maintain a calm, confident attitude throughout the interview. Make direct eye contact and listen carefully to the consular officer’s questions before responding.

 

Be Honest and Consistent

Honesty is key during the interview. Any discrepancies or inconsistencies in your answers can raise red flags. If you don’t know the answer to a question, it’s better to admit it than to provide inaccurate information. Consistency between your verbal answers and your written application is crucial to building trust.

 

Be Ready to Prove Ties to Your Home Country

For nonimmigrant visa applicants, the consular officer must be convinced that you intend to return to your home country after your visit to the US. Be prepared to provide evidence of strong ties, such as family, employment, property ownership, or ongoing educational commitments.

 

Understand That Approval Is Not Guaranteed

Even with perfect preparation, there is no guarantee of visa approval. The decision ultimately rests with the consular officer. If your application is denied, stay calm and ask for clarification about the reasons. You can address the issues and reapply if your circumstances change or if additional supporting evidence can be provided.

 

Get Professional Support 

Professional support with your visa application and preparing for the interview can help ensure that you are well practised and familiar with the application information and how to present your case to the consular official. This is particularly important for applications involving waivers or where the applicant has complex considerations such as past a criminal record or previous US immigration violations.

 

Need assistance?

 

NNU Immigration are specialists in US visa applications. We deal with the US Embassy in London on a daily basis, and can support and advise on making a visa application. Contact us for help and advice with your US visa application.

 

US Embassy London FAQs

 

How do I book a visa appointment at the US Embassy in London?

You can schedule a visa appointment online through the US Visa Information and Appointment Services website after completing the DS-160 form and paying the visa fee.

 

How long is the wait time for a visa appointment in London?

Wait times vary based on visa category and demand. It is recommended to check the official US Embassy London website for current appointment availability.

 

What documents do I need for my US visa interview?

You need a valid passport, DS-160 confirmation page, visa appointment confirmation, visa fee receipt, and any required supporting documents based on your visa type.

 

Can I reschedule my visa appointment if needed?

You can reschedule your appointment through the same online system where you booked it, but availability depends on open slots.

 

What happens if I miss my visa appointment?

If you miss your appointment you may need to reschedule through the online system. However repeated no-shows may require a new application and fee payment.

 

Do I need to attend the visa interview in person?

Most visa applicants must attend an in-person interview at the US Embassy in London unless eligible for the visa interview waiver program.

 

How early should I arrive at the US Embassy for my appointment?

You should arrive no more than 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment as early arrivals will not be admitted for security reasons.

 

Can I bring someone with me to my visa appointment?

Only the applicant is allowed inside the embassy unless a minor or a person with special assistance needs an accompanying individual.

 

What happens during the visa interview?

A consular officer will review your application ask questions about your travel plans and assess whether you meet the visa requirements before making a decision.

 

How long does it take to receive my passport after visa approval?

If your visa is approved your passport with the visa stamp is typically returned within five to ten business days via the selected delivery option.

 

What if my visa is denied at the interview?

If your visa is denied the consular officer will provide a reason. Some applicants may be eligible to reapply with additional documentation or after resolving the issue.

 

Can I expedite my visa appointment in London?

Expedited appointments are available for urgent travel needs but you must provide proof of emergency circumstances such as medical treatment or business obligations.

 

Is there a dress code for the visa interview?

There is no official dress code but it is advisable to dress professionally to make a good impression during the interview.

 

What payment methods are accepted for the visa fee?

Visa fees must be paid online or at designated banks using approved payment methods specified on the US Visa Information website.

 

Do I need to bring printed copies of my documents?

You should bring printed copies of all required documents as electronic versions on mobile devices may not be accepted.

 

Glossary

 

 

Term	Definition
Visa Appointment	An interview scheduled with a consular officer at a US embassy or consulate to review a visa application
Nonimmigrant Visa	A visa issued to individuals entering the US temporarily for tourism, business, work, study, or other reasons
Embassy	A diplomatic mission of one country located in another country responsible for handling diplomatic affairs, including issuing visas
Consulate	A diplomatic office that handles visas, citizen services, and other consular functions on behalf of an embassy
MRV Fee	The Machine-Readable Visa fee that must be paid to apply for a US visa, which is non-refundable and non-transferable
Rescheduling	The process of changing a previously scheduled visa interview appointment to a different date or time
Cancellation	The process of formally canceling a scheduled visa interview appointment
Visa Waiver Program (VWP)	A program that allows citizens of certain countries to travel to the US for tourism or business without a visa for stays of up to 90 days
Appointment Confirmation	An official notice that confirms the date, time, and location of a visa interview appointment
Biometric Information	Personal data such as fingerprints and photographs collected as part of the visa application process
Passport Retention	The process where an embassy keeps an applicant’s passport for visa processing until the visa is issued
Courier Service	A service that delivers passports and visas to applicants after visa processing is completed
Visa Processing Time	The period required to review, approve, and issue a visa after a successful interview
USCIS	US Citizenship and Immigration Services, the agency that handles immigration benefits such as green cards, work permits, and other statuses
Travel Ban	A government-imposed restriction that prevents certain individuals or groups from entering the US
Visa Refusal	The decision made by a consular officer not to issue a visa to an applicant, often due to eligibility concerns