It is important to apply for your non-immigrant visa well in advance of your trip. Some other important steps to remember are:

1. Review your visa status and find out if you need a U.S. visa or a renewal.

2. Review the visa wait times information for interview appointments and visa processing at each embassy and consular section worldwide. Visit the embassy or consular section website where you will apply for your visa to find out how to schedule an interview appointment, pay fees and any other instructions.

3. Plan on an interview at the embassy or consulate, which is a requirement  for most visa applicants. As part of the visa interview, a quick fingerprint scan should be expected. Applicants who need additional screening are informed of this during the application process.