NONIMMIGRANT VISA SERVICES

STEP 4: GATHER YOUR SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS

During the interview, your verbal responses to the consular officer's questions will serve as his/her primary source of information about your case. This means that the burden of proof will be upon you (rather than on the documents you bring) to make the case that you qualify to receive a visa.

In order to verify the information that you tell him/her, the consular officer may request additional documentation in support of your application. Being unable to provide such documentation at the time of your interview may negatively impact the outcome of your case. As such, it is strongly recommended that all applicants arrive at their interviews prepared to support the claims you intend to make. Such information should include all of the following that apply to your personal circumstances:

Permanent Employees	A letter from your employer on original letterhead, stating how long you have been employed, in what capacity, what your basic monthly salary is, and how long you will be away from work. If you are traveling on business, your letter should also (in addition to the elements listed above) detail the nature of your business, including contact information of U.S. companies or offices you will visit.
Account  Holders	A bank or investment statement listing the numerical amounts your accounts contain, as well as the dates on which the accounts were opened. No credit card statements, please.
Self-Employed Applicants	Evidence that your business has been registered with the Government  of Sierra Leone, such as last year's tax payment receipts.
Students and Scholars	A letter from an institution official clearly stating your level of study, period of accepted travel and demonstrated intent to return and complete your studies.
Property Owners	Evidence of ownership, such as a car and house titles and/or a mortgage payment receipt.
Pensioners	Evidence of pension and/or property ownership.
Children (Under 14)	Notarized letters from both parents authorizing travel, along with a birth certificate and the original passport of any parent who will not be physically present at the Embassy during the interview. In cases in which one parent has sole custody of a child, the official custodial agreement or a legalized copy outlining the custody arrangement.
All Applicants	It is strongly recommended that you NOT purchase tickets or make irrevocable travel plans before obtaining a visa. However, we nonetheless request to see your itinerary if you have made specific travel plans.