U.S. Embassy in Havana Expands Visa Services for Certain Work and Exchange Programs.
On Monday, August 19, the U.S. Embassy in Havana will broaden its visa services to include specific categories of temporary work and exchange program visas. Cubans whose temporary work petitions have been approved by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), as well as participants in exchange visitor programs with an approved Certificate of Eligibility, can now schedule visa interviews at the U.S. Embassy.
However, this expansion does not cover nonimmigrant visas for those seeking to enter the United States temporarily for business (B-1 visa) or tourism (B-2 visa). Cubans still need to visit another U.S. Embassy or consulate to attend routine B-1/B-2 visa interviews.
The newly available visa categories at the U.S. Embassy in Havana include:
H: Temporary workers or trainees
J: Exchange visitors
L: Intracompany transferees
O: Workers with extraordinary ability or achievement
P: Athletes, artists, and entertainers
Q: International cultural exchange participants
R: Members of a religious denomination performing religious work
It is important to note that securing a visa appointment does not guarantee visa approval. Applicants must demonstrate their qualifications according to U.S. laws and regulations.
To schedule an interview for the H, L, O, P, Q, and R categories, applicants must provide proof of their approved petition (Form I-797 Notice of Action) from USCIS. For J visa interviews, applicants must submit a Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status (Form DS-2019), which is issued by the exchange program sponsor. Interviews will only be scheduled after the Embassy receives the approved Form I-797 or Form DS-2019.