What Is An OFC Appointment?

We understand that OFC appointments can be a bit confusing, but don't worry; we've got your back! We will explain what happens during an OFC appointment and provide you with details on the required documents. Read the blog till the end, and hopefully, your doubts should be cleared out! So, let's dive in and learn all about OFC appointments together.

What is an OFC appointment?

OFC is Offsite Facilitation Center. It is a process that helps applicants to streamline their visa application process, which has been established by the US government. At this centre, candidates can easily provide their fingerprints (Biometric) and visa photographs before their US visa interview. To visit the OFC, all you have to do is book an appointment. This ensures that you have a designated time slot to complete the necessary procedures without any unnecessary delays or overcrowding. Once you've given your biometrics and photograph, your DS-160 confirmation page will be stamped. During your visa interview at the consulate, all you need to bring are your passport and the stamped DS-160 form, which is an essential document that confirms the details provided in your online visa application.

What to Expect during an OFC Appointment?

When you have an appointment at the Offsite Facilitation Center (OFC), it's important to note that this appointment is separate from the actual visa interview. During your OFC visa appointment, you will have the opportunity to provide some necessary documents and complete specific procedures to prepare for your visa interview. When you visit the OFC, make sure to bring your passport(s) and printed copies of your OFC visa appointment confirmation and visa application. There are many reasons behind US visa rejection, and of course, we don’t want that; that’s where OFC appointments help streamline the process!

Once you are at the centre, you will go through some straightforward steps. First, you'll need to have your biometrics taken, which involves the scanning of your fingerprints. This is a routine procedure that helps verify your identity. Then you will have your visa photo taken. This photo will be used as part of your visa application and serves as a visual representation of yourself. Remember, the OFC visa appointment focuses on these necessary steps to prepare for your visa interview. It's a chance to provide documents, complete biometrics, and have your photo taken. The actual visa interview will take place separately, at a later time and location.

Things to keep in mind during an OFC Appointment

In addition to all the information given, you need to keep these things in mind before going for an OFC Appointment:

1. Scheduling an OFC Appointment: If you need to schedule an OFC appointment, you can do it when you schedule your visa interview.
2. OFC Appointment before Visa Interview: Your OFC visa appointment happens before your visa interview. It's important to complete the OFC appointment first, where you'll provide documents, have your biometrics taken, and get your visa photo. Only then can you attend your visa interview?
3. Visa Interview Location: Your visa interview will take place at your local U.S. embassy with a consular officer. It won't happen at the OFC visa facility.
4. Security Measures at OFC: There's strict security at the OFC. Apart from the required documents, you won't be allowed to bring personal belongings like a cell phone with you.
5. OFC Management: OFC facilities are usually managed by third-party organisations, not officials from the U.S. embassy.
6. Language Assistance: At your local OFC facility, there will be individuals who speak your language and can help you if needed.
7. Eligibility for Drop Box Program: While most visa applicants are legally required to attend an OFC visa appointment, some may qualify for the Drop Box program. If eligible, you can submit your documentation at a local Drop Box facility. Contact your local US embassy to confirm if you qualify for the same. 
8. Drop Box Processing: If you qualify for the Drop Box program, simply submit your documentation at the local Drop Box facility. You will receive a notification once your visa has been processed.

Documents required for an OFC Appointment

You need to make sure that you carry these documents before going for your OFC Appointment:

1. You need to carry your original passport along with expired passports (if any)
2. A copy of the OFC visa appointment confirmation. 
3. A copy of your visa application

What happens after an OFC Appointment? 

After completing your OFC visa appointment, the next step is to attend a visa interview with a U.S. consular officer at your local U.S. embassy. This interview is an important part of the process. Once you have attended your visa interview, you will need to go back to the same OFC you visited earlier to collect your passport. To receive your passport, remember to bring a printed hard copy of your visa application.

If you meet the requirements for a visa interview waiver, you won't need to have your fingerprints taken. Instead, you can submit the necessary documents at a special facility called a "Drop Box." The visa applicants eligible for an interview waiver include:

1. Individuals under the age of 14
2. Individuals over the age of 80
3. Applicants renewing their visa under the same category
4. Applicants whose visa falls under specific categories such as A-1, A-2, G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, C-3, and NATO.

If you're unsure whether you qualify for an interview waiver, it's best to check with the U.S. embassy. They can provide you with the accurate information you need. Remember, these guidelines can help you understand the process better and ensure a smoother experience. If you have any doubts or questions, don't hesitate to contact your local U.S. embassy for clarification.

OFC Appointment fee 

The good news is that you don't have to pay any additional fees for your OFC visa appointment. The costs of biometrics and visa photo are already covered by your visa application fee. So you can proceed with your OFC appointment without worrying about any extra expenses.

Here's all you need to know about an OFC appointment; it is a scheduled appointment where you will be required to provide biometric information, including fingerprints and photographs. This data will be used for identity verification and security purposes. If you have any further questions or need clarification, feel free to contact the embassy or consulate handling your visa application. They will be able to assist you with any additional information or concerns you may have.