PUBLIC AFFAIRS SECTION
Information Section

Public Affairs Main Office   | American Center Library | American Studies 
Electronic Journals | The Washington Line | U.S. Government Web Sites
U.S. Embassy Homepage | Other Useful Sites

Address: The American Center, P.O.Box 32053 Lusaka,Zambia.
Phone: (260)-1-227-993/4; Fax: (260)-1-226523; E-mail: embpas@zamnet.zm

ELECTRONIC FINGERPRINTING FOR U.S. VISAS

The U.S. Embassy in Lusaka is introducing a new procedure for visa applications. Beginning July 7, the application process will include electronic scanning of fingerprints.

The use of electronic fingerprint records will make it easier for U.S. immigration inspectors to verify a traveler's identity. This will reduce delays for legitimate travelers while enhancing security.

The fingerprint procedure is completely electronic and takes only a few seconds. During the visa interview, a consular officer will scan the visa applicant's two index fingers. No ink is used. The electronic fingerprint image will become part of the traveler's visa record, thus allowing speedy verification of the traveler's identity upon arrival in the U.S.

Fingerprint scanning for visa applicants is a consequence of legislation passed in 2002 by the U.S. Congress.  The law requires all U.S. Embassies and Consulates to issue visas that use "biometric identifiers."

By making electronic images of fingerprints, U.S. consular officers meet the requirements of the law in a way that causes the least inconvenience to travelers.

# # # #

                                                                                                       return to top)

Please note that the American Embassy offices are closed on holidays.

This site is produced and maintained by the Mission Home Page Team.
Links to other Internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views contained therein.
For more information or comments, please contact Dehab Ghebreab, Director of the American Center, on
Tel: (260)-1-227993/4 ; Fax:  (260)-1-226523 ; E-Mail: embpas@zamnet.zm
All visa queries sent by e-mail should be directed to ConsularLusaka@state.gov
--- * Privacy Notice * ---