Starting July 15, 2020, Embassy Vienna will resume processing of limited categories of non-immigrant visa applications. At this time, we are prioritizing services for citizens and residents of Austria.
National Interest Exceptions
Embassy Vienna welcomes appointments to determine whether applicants may qualify for national interest exceptions (NIEs) under Presidential Proclamation 9993, which has suspended routine travel from the Schengen Area to the United States. Appointments are now available in the following visa categories:
- F visas;
- M visas;
- J visas (Professors, Research Scholars, Short Term Scholars, or Specialists only);
- E visas;
- B1 visas (for travel that provides significant economic benefit to the United States only).
Application Process
Travelers in these visa categories who believe their travel is in the U.S. national interest should apply for their visas as normal. Please click here to begin your application process. Applicants who already have a pending visa interview appointment but desire an earlier interview should request an expedited appointment. A final determination regarding each applicant’s qualifications for a visa and for the NIE will be made by a consular officer at the time of the interview. Some conditions apply to travel, which will be explained at the interview.
Other Exceptions
Embassy Vienna will continue to process official and diplomatic visas pursuant to usual processes. In addition to the NIE categories listed above, Presidential Proclamation 9993 also provides a list of other enumerated exceptions, which includes air and sea crew members and spouses and minor children of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. If you believe that you qualify for an exception, please make an appointment. For additional questions about whether you may qualify, please contact us at ConsulateVienna@state.gov.