US tourist visas will be easier to obtain

On March 9 the US diplomatic mission in Moscow has simplified the tourist visa application procedure, informs RIA Novosti, citing the consulate. The applicants will be able to skip the interview if their last visa expired less than 47 months ago.

The innovation will only affect those who apply for B1/B2 and C1/D (transit or crew) tourist visas. Everyone else can skip the interview only if their last visa expired less than 11 months ago. Still, consulate workers reserve the right to invite people for interviews, if they find it necessary.

The US embassy’s press service in Moscow explained that the decision to facilitate visa formalities was made in the course of the presidential program to increase the inbound tourist flow to USA. The cancellation of the interview is yet another motive to choose USA as a holiday or business destination.

Note that Russia is not the most promising country for the US, tourism-wise. But the tourist flow is increasing steadily – according to Rostourism, 112 thousand Russian tourists visited USA in 2011, which is 31% more, compared to 2010 figures.

Let us recall that the visa regime has been gradually softening between USA and Russia over the last couple of months. Yet another agreement about extending the multiple entry visa duration from 1 to 3 years was signed in June 2011. But the most recent innovation is yet to be appraised by tour operators. General Manager of America Travel company, Margarita Babayan noted that the US embassy has been closed for the holidays on March 8, like many other offices. So details about the new procedure will be revealed later. RATA-news will keep you updated on the subject.