· All applicants should submit nonimmigrant visas documents to Pony Express at least four to six weeks prior to their intended departure date. If applicants are planning to travel during the peak summer or holiday seasons, we recommend allowing for additional processing time. Applicants or their sponsors should not purchase airline tickets or pay for accommodations prior to visa issuance.
· We kindly request visa applicants to refrain from bringing large bags, briefcases, or luggage to the Consulate. Prohibited items include weapons (not limited to guns, knives, explosives, mace and pepper spray), flammable and hazardous materials, and any electronic devices. These regulations are designed to minimize waiting time and maximize safety and security for both the applicants and Consulate employees. We recommend that visa applicants do not plan other activities immediately after their appointment time, since the entire interviewing procedure may take up to three hours.
· The format of application photographs has changed. We now require only one recent (within the last six months), 2”x 2” (5 cm x 5 cm), non-glossy, color photo taken against a white or off-white background.

· Applicants planning to attend scientific conferences or meetings, participate in scientific research or post-graduate studies, or engage in scientific employment are requested to complete the DS-156, DS-157 (irrespectively of age and gender), and DS-158 (if applicable) forms in English as well as submit a list of publications and their resume or curriculum vitae in English. Such applications may be subjected to additional administrative processing of approximately three weeks.