Federal Agencies, Agency Memos & Announcements

DOS Summary of Changes in Special Processing Requirements

2/10/99 AILA Doc. No. 99032559. Admissions & Border, Consular Processing

P 101727Z FEB 99
FM SECSTATE WASHDC
TO ALL DIPLOMATIC AND CONSULAR POSTS PRIORITY
SPECIAL EMBASSY PROGRAM
BUJUMBURA POUCH
DAR ES SALAAM POUCH PRIORITY
TIRANA POUCH
MONROVIA POUCH
KINSHASA POUCH
DOHA POUCH
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN POUCH

Unclas State 025434

Visas - For Consular Section Chiefs

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: CVIS
Subject: Summary of Recent Changes To Special Processing Requirements

Ref: (A) 97 State 214934 (B) 96 State 233782 (C) State 5294 (D)State 75151 (E) State 90091 (F) State 127154 (G) State 154242 (H) State 160546 (I) State 164493 (J) State 201721

1. Summary

Each year CA/VO transmits to the field by cable an updated summary of special processing requirements for certain national groups. Since the last update contained in Ref A, there have been changes in the requirements for several nationalities. (Changes since the Nov 1997 update are indicated by three asterisks (***) preceding the country name.) The following is a compilation of all Security Advisory Opinions (and in some cases advisory opinions other than security) and name check requirements currently in effect. Posts should keep copies of this unclassified cable, as well as subsequent updates and the Technology Alert List (98 State 015852) in the interviewing or work area for ready reference.

2. Guidance

Processing requirements for some applicants (i.e., Cubans, Sudanese, Chinese, Iranian, Rwandans) are fairly complex. Posts which might only see the occasional applicant whose case requires a PHD in SAO processing might build in reminders to assist officers in ensuring that the guidance is thoroughly reviewed prior to completing the interview.

3. It's Who You Know

In two cases it is not nationality, but place of employment/residence which triggers the SAO. Please refer to the Iraq and Libya sections of this document for SAO requirements on certain TCN employees of Iraqi missions/diplomats and other applicants who have lived/worked in Libya.

4. Technology Alert Cases

Please note that "Visas Donkey Mantis" ("Visas Eagle Mantis" for posts in China) cables should now be sent for all cases (business, education, training, scientific exchange) involving fields on the Technology Alert List (TAL). While restrictions on the export of controlled goods and technologies apply to nationals of all countries, applicants from countries on the list of state sponsors of terrorism (and others on the following list where mantis is specifically mentioned), warrant special scrutiny.

5. Out With The Old

"Visas Busvis", "Splex", "Chinex" and "Vietex" designators should no longer be used. These cases should now be reported using the "Visas Mantis" designator.

6. We Can Help

CA/VO/L/C makes every attempt to respond to SAOs in a timely fashion. However, more complicated cases can take much longer to resolve. If you do not receive at least an acknowledgement of receipt within 15 working days, please do not hesitate to notify L/C via phone (202-663-1196), cable or e-mail. Include the date and number of your original cable and the full name of the applicant in your message. Clearly state that it is a follow up request. Should posts have any questions about these changes or SAOs in general, please contact CA/VO/L/C unless otherwise indicated below. End summary and guidance.

7. The Fine Print

Special Processing Requirements for Individual Countries



***AFGHANISTAN

I. Nonofficial Travel: None.

II. Official Travel:

An Advisory Opinion (AO) request is required for any individual claiming to be a diplomatic representative of any faction in Afghanistan, or his/her dependents, who requests an A1, A2, G1, G2 or G3 visa. Cables should be slugged for CA/VO/L/A and SA/PAB, with the subject line "advisory opinion other than security "Afghan Diplomat." Posts may issue an A3 visa to an Afghan applicant who will be working as a domestic employee for a diplomat of another nationality without an advisory opinion.



***ANGOLA

I. Travel By UNITA Officials and Family:

Posts must submit security advisory opinion requests for any UNITA (National Union for the Total Independence of Angola) official or adult family member (spouses, siblings, parents, adult children) of any UNITA official applying for any type of visa to the U.S. SAO requests should be slugged for CA/VO/L/C and AF/S, and should include AmEmbassy Luanda as an info addressee. Please include detailed information in the SAO on the UNITA official's current position and the purpose of the applicant's visit to the U.S.

II. Other Travel:

Posts must also submit an SAO request for any applicant planning to engage in any activity related to the following:

    1. The sale, supply or making available of any aircraft or aircraft components, regardless of origin, to UNITA or to the territory of Angola
    2. The insurance, engineering or servicing of any aircraft owned or controlled by UNITA
    3. The granting of permission to any aircraft to take off from, land in or overfly the U.S. if the aircraft is destined to land in or has taken off from the territory of Angola
    4. The provision or making available of engineering and maintenance servicing, the certification of airworthiness, the payment of new claims against existing insurance contracts or the provision, renewal or making available of direct insurance to any aircraft registered in Angola or that entered the territory of Angola.

SAOs submitted based on Angolan aircraft related activities should be slugged for CA/VO/L/C, AF/S and EB/ESP, and should include AmEmbassy Luanda as an info addressee.



ARMENIA

I. Nonofficial Travel: None.

II. Official Travel:

Visas Horse Name Check Requests

A "Visas Horse" telegram must be submitted immediately following the issuance of an A, C-3, or G visa.

"Visas Bear" SAO Requests

The cases of official and diplomatic visa applicants who otherwise require Security Advisory Opinions (DPT-00 class entries, possible ineligibility under INA 212(a) (3), etc.) must be submitted by means of a "Visas Bear" telegram unless the "Visas Pegasus" procedure applies (see below).

Visas Pegasus Name Check Requests

Applicants who are DPT-00 class entries and who are coming to attend pre-ministerial, ministerial, pre-summit, summit, and white house meetings may be issued visas on a post check basis provided that a "Visas Pegasus," telegram is
sent immediately to the Department.



AZERBAIJAN

I. Nonofficial Travel: None

II. Official Travel (same as Armenia)



***BELARUS

I. Nonofficial Travel: None Unless Applicant Meets Criteria Below.

II. Official Travel: All posts are required to submit SAO requests on all

visa applications made by officials of the Government of Belarus at the deputy minister level or equivalent or above for all/all types of travel. SAOs should be submitted in the Visas Bear or Donkey format, as appropriate, with cable slugged for CA/VO/L/C and EUR/WST.

Please include AmEmbassy Minsk as an info addressee. The Department's response is required prior to visa issuance.



***BURMA

Presidential proclamation for certain government officials under section 212(f) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, the president signed a proclamation on October 3, 1996 suspending the entry into the United States as immigrants and nonimmigrants of senior officials of the Burmese Government and other persons who formulate, implement, or benefit from policies that impede Burma's transition to democracy, and the immediate family members of such persons.

I. Nonofficial Visas

Individuals in the following categories appear to be subject to 212(f) procedures by virtue of their positions and would require automatic referral to the Department through a "Visas Donkey" Security Advisory Opinion before a visa could be issued. They include:

  • Members of the State Peace And Development Council (SPDC) (formerly the State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC)) and their immediate families;
  • Government ministers and other Senior Burmese Government Officials and their immediate families;
  • Senior officials of the Union Solidarity Development Association (USDA) and their immediate families;
  • Military above the rank of Colonel and their immediate families, and
  • Civil Servants above the rank of Director-General and their immediate families.

When a Visas Donkey Security Advisory Opinion has been requested, the Department's response is required prior to visa issuance.

II. Official Visas

"Visas Bear" Security Advisory Opinion Requests

A "Visas Bear" telegram must be submitted for A, C-3, and G (except G-4) applications. No Visas Bear is required for applicants assigned to a Burmese Mission in the United States or for working level support staff/visitors who support the work of Burmese Missions in the U.S., including missions to international organizations. When a Visas Bear Security Advisory Opinion has been requested, the Department's response is required prior to visa issuance.



CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC

I. Nonofficial Travel: None

  1. Official Travel: Department Concurrence Required for Certain A and

G Visa Cases

The government offices of the Central African Republic have been unable or unwilling to meet their financial obligations in the United States. Therefore, all a and G visa applications (except G-4) of Central African Republic nationals who will take up permanent assignment on behalf of the CAR government at a CAR mission or at an international organization require the Department's concurrence prior to visa issuance. Applications for officials or employees of an international organization (G-4) or for temporary official travel to events such as - the United Nations General Assembly, may be processed at post without seeking the Department's prior authorization. All SAO requests should be slugged for CA/VO/L/C and AF/C, S/CPR, and IO/UNP, with an info copy to AmEmbassy Bangul if the application is made in a third country.



***CHINA, PEOPLE' S REPUBLIC OF

There have been major changes to the special processing requirements for Chinese applicants. For more detailed information, posts should refer to 98 State 173447 and 98 State 205715.

I. General

Submission of Visa Applications and Photographs

A copy of the visa application (Form OF-156) of all nonimmigrant visa recipients, with a recent, original photograph firmly affixed (two photographs in the case of professional diplomatic couriers) must be sent directly and expeditiously to the Northeast Regional Computer Support Center, 1203 Nealis Avenue, Fort Monmouth, New Jersey 07703, Attn: Dept. IIs. This procedure is in addition to the telegraphic name check and Security Advisory Opinion requirements listed below. Exceptions to this procedure are:

    1. No application or photograph need be submitted in cases involving chiefs and deputy chiefs of state, heads of government, chiefs of mission, their immediate families and accompanying crewmembers; and
    2. No photograph need be provided if one has been submitted within the previous three years.

II. Nonofficial Travel

"Visas Eagle" Name Check Requests

"Visas Eagle" Telegrams Must Be Submitted For The Following Persons:


(1) K nonimmigrant visa applicants;
(2) Immigrant visa applicants; and
(3) Applicants for refugee status.

These cases may be brought to conclusion 10 working days after submission of the "Visas Eagle" telegram unless otherwise advised by the Department.

Name Checks Not Required

"Visas Eagle" telegrams need not be submitted for the following categories of nonimmigrants:

    1. B-1 applicants coming to conduct business, attend meetings or conferences in a non-scientific field or a "low-tech", general scientific field not/not included on the technology alert list;
    2. B-2 visitors for pleasure;
    3. A-3 and G-5 personal employees of foreign officials and diplomats;
    4. C-1 and C-2 aliens in transit;
    5. F-1 undergraduate students under 30 years of age;
    6. D crewmembers;
    7. M vocational and non-academic students;
    8. Athletes, artists, and entertainers in the 0 & P classifications;
    9. R religious workers; and
    10. The accompanying or following to join spouses and children of applicants in any nonimmigrant visa category.

"Visas Eagle Mantis" Security Advisory Opinion requests (applies to posts in China only)

A "Visas Eagle Mantis" telegram must be submitted on Chinese applicants (only when applying at a China post) who are coming to study (other than undergraduate students under 30 years of age), teach, conduct research, engage in commercial activity, participate in an exchange program, attend meetings or conferences, or be temporarily employed or trained in a scientific or technical field on the technology alert list.

"Visas Donkey Mantis" SAO requests (applies to all other posts)

A "Visas Donkey Mantis" telegram must be submitted on Chinese applicants (when applying outside of China) who are coming to study (other than undergraduate students under 30 years of age), teach, conduct research, engage in commercial activity, participate in an exchange program, attend meetings or conferences, or be temporarily employed or trained in a scientific or technical field on the technology alert list. The department's response is required prior to issuance.

III. Official Travel

"Visas Horse" Name Check Requests

A "Visas Horse" telegram must be submitted immediately following the issuance of an A, C-3, or G visa.

"Visas Bear" Security Advisory Opinion Requests

The cases of official and diplomatic visa applicants who otherwise require Security Advisory Opinions (DPT-00 class entries; possible ineligibility under INA 212(a) (3), etc.) must be submitted by means of a "Visas Bear" telegram.



CONGO, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF (FORMERLY ZAIRE)

No special processing requirements. Previous SAO requirement lifted 16 Aug 1997 (97 State 154242).



***CONGO, REPUBLIC OF THE

No special processing requirements. Visas bear requirement lifted December 11, 1998 (98 state 229172).



***CUBA, REPUBLIC OF

The following instructions are currently in effect and should be followed until further notice. VO is cognizant of the President's and the Secretary's recent statements regarding the easing of travel restrictions and is consulting with relevant entities.

I. General

Submission of Visa Applications and Photographs

A copy of the visa application (Form OF-156 of all nonimmigrant visa recipients, with a recent, original photograph firmly affixed (two photographs in the case of professional diplomatic couriers) must be sent directly and expeditiously to: the Washington Field Office, 601 4th Street NW, Washington, DC 20535-0002, Attn: Stuart Hoyt. This procedure is in addition to the telegraphic name check and Security Advisory Opinion requirements listed below. Exceptions to this procedure are:

  1. No application or photograph need be submitted in cases involving chiefs and deputy chiefs of state, heads of government, chiefs of mission, their immediate families and accompanying crewmembers; and
  2. No photograph need be provided if one has been submitted within the previous three years.

Presidential Proclamation on Cuba

On October 4, 1985, the president signed a proclamation suspending the entry into the United States as nonimmigrants of Cuban nationals who are officers or employees of the Government of Cuba or of the Communist Party of Cuba under Section 212(f) of the INA. Due to the structure of the Cuban economy, this proclamation effectively requires that posts submit Security Advisory Opinion requests on nearly all categories of Cuban nonimmigrants as described below.

II. Nonofficial Travel

"Visas Donkey" Security Advisory Opinion Requests

A "Visas Donkey" telegram must be submitted for the following categories of nonimmigrant visa applicants coming for nonofficial purposes:


(1) Any person, including a child, who presents a Cuban diplomatic or official passport;
(2) Any person who works in a Cuban government office, university, or state commercial enterprise, and is traveling for job-related purposes or whose travel is funded by the Cuban government;
(3) Any person who holds a professional or managerial position in a Cuban government office, university, or state commercial enterprise;
(4) Any Cuban who is a professional performer or artist in Cuba;
(5) Any person who works as a manager or professional on a project in another country "on loan" from Cuba;
(6) Any person suspected of violating Cuban assets control regulations or of traveling to the United States on behalf of Cuban commercial enterprises;
(7) Any Cuban who is applying for an individual crewmember (C-1/D) visa, regardless of the registry of the vessel or the applicant's position aboard; and,
(8) Any applicant on whom the consular officer wishes to have the Department's Security Advisory Opinion.

When a "Visas Donkey" advisory opinion has been requested, the department's response is required prior to visa issuance. In addition, USINT Havana must always be an info addressee on these telegrams.

"Visas Eagle" Name Check Requests

A) Applications at the U.S. Interests Section Havana

A "Visas Eagle" telegram must be submitted for all nonimmigrants who do not fall within the categories requiring Security Advisory Opinions indicated above, all immigrant applicants, and all applicants for refugee status who are ages 21 - 55. Cases may be processed on a postcheck basis.

B) Applications at all Other Posts

A "Visas Eagle" telegram must be submitted for all Cuban applicants (nonimmigrants, immigrants, and refugees) ages 16 - 80, who are not subject to the Security Advisory Opinion requirements indicated above. Nonimmigrant visas may be issued on a postcheck basis at the consular officer' s discretion without Department approval.

III. Official Travel

"Visas Bear" Security Advisory Opinion Requests

A "Visas Bear" telegram must be submitted for all A, C-3, and G visa applications. When a "Visas Bear" security advisory opinion has been requested, the Department's response is required prior to visa issuance. As with all Cuban Visas Donkey telegrams, USINT Havana must always be included as an info addressee on Visas Bear telegrams.

Port of Entry Restrictions for A, C-3, G-1, and G-2 Visa Holders

A) Designated Ports of Entry

Cuban bearers of A, C-3, G-1, and G-2 visas may only enter the United States through one of the designated ports listed below:

1) New York City
2) Washington, D.C. (Dulles Only)
3) Miami
4) Houston


There are no restrictions on the ports through which Cuban officials may depart the United States.

B) Annotation of Visas

The designated port(s) of entry which will be used should be annotated at the bottom of the visa as follows: "entry at (name of designated port(s))". For officials issued multiple-entry visas, all of the above designated ports should be annotated. If the designated port of entry changes after issuance of the visa, a notation of that change, signed and sealed by a consular officer, should be
made on the next available page of the passport. The designated port(s) of entry should be indicated in the required "Visas Bear" telegram.



***EQUATORIAL GUINEA

No special clearance requirements. Previous SAO requirement lifted January 6, 1998 (state 1430).



GEORGIA - Same As Armenia



***IRAN

Special Clearance and Issuance Procedures

This is a long section. Please read sections on non- official and official travel which follow.

Minimum information necessary for all/all Iranian visa applicants who require special clearances (including Visas Eagle Name Checks): date and place of birth, occupation, purpose of trip to the united states, planned port of entry and exit, planned place of residence, and point of contact in the United States. Failure to furnish this information may result in delays in SAO and eagle processing. For more information on processing Iranian cases, please refer to 98 State 95514.

Government Employees and Clerics:

If applicants are affiliated with the government of Iran, they must explain their specific connection as well as their U.S. travel plans. The names and addresses of U.S. points of contact are necessary in order to determine the admissibility of the applicants. This is especially essential for clerics and the military.

Business Travelers:

If applicants are requesting B-1 visas, the Visas Eagle or Donkey cable should include details about the applicant's business in Iran, proposed U.S. business dealings, the name and address of U.S. firms involved, and the end use and final destination of any U.S. goods. This information is
important in order to enforce trade sanctions and in identifying people who give material and financial support to terrorism.

Students:

Eagle and Donkey cables for F, J, or M visas should state the proposed course of study, name of school, and the source of funds. If funding is provided by U.S. relatives, names and addresses of the relatives should also be furnished. Information on the student's future employment in Iran, particularly with the Government of Iran, is very important in determining eligibility under security sections of the Immigration and Nationality Act.

Other Visitors:

Visas Eagle/Donkey telegrams for Iranians applying for B-2 visas should include, at a minimum, the purpose of the trip, an itinerary, and the name and address of any U.S. contacts. This information is useful in identifying potential terrorists. Submission of any other information which post feels might be useful to the Department, intelligence and law enforcement communities is encouraged.

I. Nonofficial Travel

"Visas Donkey" Security Advisory Opinion requests a "Visas Donkey" telegram must be submitted for the following classes of Iranian immigrant and nonimmigrant visa applicants, other than applicants for G visas, in addition to those individuals who otherwise require Security Advisory Opinions (DPT-00 entries, possible ineligibility under INA 212(a)(3), etc.):

1) Officials and employees of the Iranian government, including the executive, legislative, and judicial branches (excluding medical personnel in private practice and primary and secondary school teachers; see visas eagle guidance below);
2) Officers and employees of state-owned or state-controlled companies;
3) Iranians involved in any aspect of the field of nuclear technology, including employees of nuclear industries, graduate-level students in the nuclear field, and persons coming for nuclear-related seminars, conferences, and exchanges;
4) Lawyers connected with the Iranian claims tribunal in the Hague;
5) Iranians who are known or believed to be religious leaders--ayatollahs, clergy, etc; and
6) Employees of the Islamic Republic News Agency.

Once a "Visas Donkey" advisory opinion has been requested, the Department's response is required prior to visa issuance.

"Visas Eagle" name check requests a "Visas Eagle" telegram must be submitted for the following categories of Iranian visa applicants:

Nonimmigrants

1) All males between the ages of 18 and 65 who are residing in Iran. (note: residence customarily involves a place of permanent domicile. Consular officers should consult CA/VO/L/A if a question arises regarding an Iranian applicant's purported residence.)

2) Iranians who have been students in the United States at any time since 1977, or who plan to study or continue studies in the United States (other than those discussed section 1, Para 3 above);
3) Medical personnel (doctors, nurses and midwives) in private practice (i.e., not employed by a ministry, university or large state hospital)
4) Primary and secondary school teachers

Immigrant Visa Applicants

1) All males between the ages of 18 and 65 residing in Iran,
2) All immigrant visa applicants who have lived in the United States for six months or more.

"Visas Eagle" name checks on Iranian nationals may not be conducted on a postcheck basis. Posts must wait 30 working days after transmitting the cable before issuing a visa. Requests for expeditious handling should be submitted by means of a "Visas Donkey" telegram, and only when circumstances indicate the need for urgent medical treatment or compelling USG interest. Please indicate in your cable's first paragraph that you are requesting expedited handling.

Iranian Visas Eagle Name Checks are valid for one year from date of issuance. The initial visa issued and all subsequent visas issued during that year must be annotated with the date and cable number of the most recent Visas Eagle Name Check.

II. Official Travel

"Visas Bear" Security Advisory Opinion Requests

A "Visas Bear" telegram must be submitted for all Iranian A, C-3, and G visa applicants. Once a "Visas Bear" advisory opinion has been requested, the Department's response is required prior to visa issuance.



IRAQ

I. Nonofficial Travel

"Visas Donkey" Security Advisory Opinion Requests

A "Visas Donkey" telegram must be submitted for the following classes of Iraqi nationals over the age of 16 who are coming for nonofficial purposes, in addition to those individuals who otherwise require Security Advisory Opinions (DPT-00 entries, possible ineligibility under INA 212(a) (3), etc.):

1) Applicants for student visas;
2) Present or former members of the Iraqi Baath Party (formally known as the Arab Baath socialist party);
3) Present or former members of the Government of Iraq; and
4) Present or former members of the Iraqi military (regardless of rank)

The Department's response is required prior to visa issuance. A clearance may be considered valid for two years and need not be repeated within that period unless the applicant otherwise requires an SAO.

II. Official Travel

"Visas Bear" Security Advisory Opinion Requests

A "Visas Bear" telegram must be submitted for the following classes of applicants 16 years of age or older:


1) Iraqi nationals applying for A, C-3 or G visas; and
2) Third Country Nationals applying for A or G visas to work at the Iraqi Embassy, the Iraqi mission to the United Nations, the Iraqi mission to any other international organization, or as household employees of any Iraqi A or G visa holder.

Once a "Visas Bear" advisory opinion has been requested, the Department's response is required prior to visa issuance.



KAZAKHSTAN - Same As Armenia

KYRGYZSTAN - Same As Armenia

LAOS

"Visas Horse" Name Check Requests

A "Visas Horse" telegram must be submitted immediately following the issuance of an A, C3, or G visa.

"Visas Bear" SAO Requests

The cases of official and diplomatic visa applicants who otherwise require Security Advisory Opinions (DPT-00 class entries; possible ineligibility under INA 212(a)(3), etc.) must be submitted by a means of a "Visas Bear" telegram.



***LIBERIA

I. Nonofficial Travel: None

II. Official Travel:

Posts should submit SAO requests in the form of a Visas Bear for Liberian officials being permanently assigned to the Liberian Embassy in Washington, Consulate in New York and the Liberian Mission to the U.N. in New York. Applicants requesting official visas for TDY purposes, including meetings, do not require SAOs. G-4 visa applicants are also not/not subject to the SAO requirements. SAO requests should be slugged for CA/VO/L/C, AF/W, IO/UNP, and S/CPR, with AmEmbassy Monrovia as an info addressee.

Procedures:

Department notes that visas may now be placed in Liberian passports. Use of the OF-232 has been terminated. Posts may now issue "a" visas to qualified applicants.



LIBYA

Please note that, due to the interagency clearance process, Libyan SAO requests routinely require two to four months to process. While we make every effort to expedite genuine emergency cases, applicants should apply well in advance of travel to accommodate current processing requirements.

Normally executive orders 12543 and 12544 prohibit the transfer of property (including money) in the United States without a license by an individual or entity directly or indirectly associated with the Government of Libya or one of its entities. Therefore, posts are encouraged to provide as much information as possible on all Libyan applicants' occupations and source(s) of funds for U.S. travel, as well as any ties to the GOL. Applicants must also provide complete itineraries, including ports of entry/exit, contact names, phone numbers and addresses in the U.S.

I. Nonofficial Travel

"Visas Donkey" Security Advisory Requests

A "Visas Donkey" telegram must be submitted for the following classes of nonimmigrant and immigrant visa applicants who are 16 years of age and older:

1) Libyan passport holders;
2) Persons born in Libya of Libyan fathers (other than Israeli citizens who were born in Libya, but left the country before 1981);
3) Third-country nationals who are living or have lived in Libya for two years or more since 1981.


Once a "Visas Donkey" advisory opinion has been requested, the Department's response is required prior to visa issuance. Third-country nationals living in Libya are/are subject to the same reciprocity schedule as Libyan nationals.

Visa Applications Involving Certain Sensitive Technologies

The Department has determined that it is not in the national interest to provide flight operations, aircraft maintenance, or nuclear-related training or study to Libyans and third-country nationals sponsored by Libyan entities. To enable the Department to evaluate whether a given area of training or study is proscribed, the SAO request must contain the following minimum information:


1) Field of expertise;
2) Educational background, including degrees and dates granted;
3) Professional employment history;
4) Focus and nature of past and present study or research;
5) Detailed description of the proposed study or research program in the U.S.;
6) Sponsoring institution, name of point of contact, and telephone number.

II. Official Travel

A "Visas Bear" telegram must be submitted for all Libyan applicants for G visas. The Department's response is required prior to visa issuance.



MOLDOVA - Same As Armenia

MONGOLIA

"Visas Horse" Name Check Requests

A "Visas Horse" telegram must be submitted immediately following the issuance of an A, C-3, or G visa.

"Visas Bear Security Advisory Opinion Requests

The cases of official and diplomatic visa applicants who otherwise require Security Advisory Opinions (DPT-00 class entries; possible ineligibility under INA 212(a)(3), etc.) must be submitted by means of a "Visas Bear" telegram.



***NIGERIA

The presidential proclamation on Nigeria was lifted on 10 November 1998. Please see 98 State 209125. There are no longer any special processing requirements for Nigerians.

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic Of Korea)

General

Submission of Visa Applications and Photographs

A copy of the visa application (Form OF-156) of all nonimmigrant visa recipients, with a recent, original photograph firmly affixed (two photographs in the case of professional diplomatic couriers) must be sent directly and expeditiously to the Northeast Regional Computer Support Center, 1203 Nealis Avenue, Fort Monmouth, New Jersey 07703, Attn: Dept. Ils. This procedure is in addition to the telegraphic name check and security advisory opinion requirements listed below. Exceptions to this procedure are:

  1. No application or photograph need be submitted in cases involving chiefs and deputy chiefs of state, heads of government, chiefs of mission, their immediate families and accompanying crewmembers; and
  2. No photograph need be provided if one has been submitted within the previous three years.

Visa Stamped on Form OF-232

Due to the absence of diplomatic relations between the United States and North Korea, and in accordance with 22 CFR 41.113(b), nonimmigrant visas may not be placed in North Korean passports. Instead, visas must be stamped on Form OF-232.

I. Nonofficial Travel

"Visas Donkey" Security Advisory Opinion Requests

A "Visas Donkey'' telegram must be submitted for all classes of immigrant and nonimmigrant visa applicants who are nationals of North Korea, or who carry North Korean passports, except for those cases requiring a "Visas Bear" Security Advisory Opinion (see below). The Department's response is required prior to visa issuance.

II. Official Travel

Persons representing the North Korean Government are not entitled to certain visa classifications absent the de jure recognition of North Korea by the United States, therefore, individuals representing the North Korean Government are not entitled to A-1, A-2, C-3, G-1 or G-2 status.

"Visas Bear" Security Advisory Opinions Requests

A "Visas Bear" telegram must be submitted on all G-3, G-4, and G-5 visa applications made by Nationals of North Korea or those who carry North Korean passports. The Department's response is required prior to visa issuance.

Port of Entry Restrictions for G-3, G-4, And G-5 Visa Holders:

North Korean bearers of G-3, G-4, and G-5 visas may only enter the United States at JFK airport in New York City, and their visas should be annotated accordingly. There are no restrictions on the ports through which North Korean officials may depart the United States.



PAKISTAN

I. Nonofficial Travel

"Visas Donkey" Security Advisory Opinion Requests

A "Visas Donkey Mantis" telegram must be submitted for all Pakistani nationals coming for nonofficial purposes whose activities in the United States may support Pakistan's nuclear program, including those within the following categories:

1) Applicants who intend to procure commodities or technology on behalf of Pakistan's nuclear program, to receive education or training in support of that program's activities, or who are known to be actively engaged in that program;
2) Applicants currently affiliated with or funded by the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), the Khan Research Laboratory or other facilities or organizations with known connections to Pakistan's nuclear weapons program who intend to pursue studies or training in any field;
3) Applicants who wish to pursue studies or training in nuclear engineering or in specific aspects of the nuclear fuel cycle, such as reprocessing, plutonium fuel fabrication, isotope separation, or heavy water production;
and,
4) Applicants who wish to visit U.S. Department of Energy Laboratories except in conjunction with IAEA-sponsored courses or programs related to medicine or agriculture.

The Department's response is required prior to visa issuance.

II. Official Travel

"Visas Bear" Security Advisory Opinion Requests

A "Visas Bear" telegram must be submitted for any A, C-3, or G visa applicant whose purpose of travel is in furtherance of Pakistan's nuclear program. The
Department's response is required prior to visa issuance.



***RUSSIA

General

Submission of Visa Applications and Photographs When Telegraphic Clearance Is Not Required

Applications for nonimmigrant visas may be processed without departmental clearance in most cases, provided:

1) The applicant is not subject to one of the telegraphic name check (Visas Eagle or Visas Horse) procedures listed below; and
2) The original visa application (Form OF-156), along with a firmly affixed recent photograph and accompanying documentation, is sent directly and expeditiously to the Northeast Regional Computer Support Center, 1203 Nealis Avenue, Fort Monmouth, New Jersey 07703, Attention: Dept. Ils. A copy of Form OF-156 should be retained at post. Submission of original OF-156's with documentation and photographs in lieu of Visas Eagle Name Check is known as the "Nonflying Eagle" procedure.

When Telegraphic Clearance Is Required

In cases where a "Visas Eagle" or "Visas Horse" name check or a "Visas Donkey" or "Visas Mantis" Security Advisory Opinion is required (see below) a copy of Form OF-156, with a recent, original photograph firmly affixed (two photographs in the case of diplomatic couriers) must also be submitted to the northeast regional computer support center at the address provided above. Exceptions to this requirement are:

1) No application or photograph need be submitted in cases involving chiefs and deputy chiefs of state, heads of government, chiefs of mission, the immediate families and accompanying crewmembers (A, G And C-3 visa applicants); and
2) No photograph need be provided if one has been submitted within the previous three years.

I. Nonofficial Travel

"Visas Eagle" Name Check Requests

A "Visas Eagle" telegram must be submitted for K nonimmigrant visa applicants, immigrant visa applicants, and applicants for refugee status who are ages 18-65.
Cases may be brought to conclusion 15 working days after submission of the Visas Eagle telegram unless otherwise advised by the Department.

"Visas Donkey Mantis" SAO Requests

A "Visas Donkey Mantis" telegram must be submitted on all/all applicants who are coming to the U.S. to participate in any activity related to a field included on the Technology Alert List (TAL). Examples follow:

B-1 scientific/technical and commercial visitors coming to attend meetings and conferences, F-1 graduate students, H visa applicants, exchange visitors (J-1's), vocational students (M-1's), and all aliens of extraordinary ability applying for O visas.

Once a visas mantis has been sent, the Department's authorization is required for issuance.

II. Official Travel

"Visas Horse" Name Check Requests

A "Visas Horse" telegram must be submitted immediately following the issuance of an A, C-3, or G Visa.

"Visas Bear" SAO Requests

The cases of official and diplomatic visa applicants who otherwise require Security Advisory Opinions (DPT-00 class entries; possible ineligibility under INA 212(a)(3), etc.) must be submitted by means of a "Visas Bear" telegram unless the "Visas Pegasus" procedure applies (see below).

"Visas Pegasus" Name Check Requests

Applicants from Russia and the other members of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) who are DPT-00 class entries and who are coming solely to attend pre ministerial, ministerial, pre-summit, and white house meetings may be issued visas on a postcheck basis provided that a "Visas Pegasus" telegram is sent immediately to the Department.

Port of Entry/Exit Restrictions for A, C-3, and G Visa Holders

Designated Ports of Entry and Exit

Russian bearers of A, C-3, and G visas may enter and exit the United States through one of the designated ports listed below:

1) All Ports of Entry in New York
2) Washington, D.C.
3) Boston, MA
4) San Francisco, CA
5) Houston, TX
6) Baltimore, MD
7) Miami, FL
8) Los Angeles, CA
9) Anchorage, AK
10) Seattle, WA
11) Chicago, IL

Annotation of Visas

Consular officers must annotate A, G, and C-3 visas issued to Russian nationals as follows: "entry/exit limited to POE's in BALT, NY, WASHDC, BOS, SF, HOUS, MIA, LA, SEA, ANCH, CHI, (name(s) of designated port(s))". The designated port(s) of entry/exit should also be indicated in the "Visas Horse" or "Visas Pegasus" telegram.



***RWANDA

General - Nonofficial And Official Travel:

All posts are required to submit SAO requests on all Rwandans applying outside of Kigali for NIVs, IVs, refugee status or other travel documents, regardless of the visa classification requested or the age of the applicant, however, SAO's based on genocide concerns are no longer required for Rwandan applicants who post has proof have previously been cleared through the department (CA/VO/L/C). Proof of previous clearance might include notes on the individual's application or file, or previous clearance cables. Issuance of a visa by itself or applicant's statements regarding a department review should not be considered proof that CA/VO/L/C has reviewed the case. If post is unable to determine whether clearance has previously been obtained, or if post has other security related ineligibility concerns, a new SAO should be submitted.

All SAOS (for both official and nonofficial travel) must include complete responses to the following questionnaire. Include Kigali as an info addressee and slug cable for CA/VO/L/C and AF/C.

1) Have you been in Rwanda since April 1, 1994?
2) If so, were you in any way personally affected by the events that took place there? In particular, were you in any way affected by the atrocities that took place? Were you a victim? A witness? Were you otherwise involved?
3) Did you have any involvement in the killings or injury to other persons since April 1, 1994? Did you in any way encourage others to participate in such killing or injury?
4) More specifically, have you used an explosive or firearm with the intent to endanger the safety of any person or to cause damage to property?
5) If you are living in Rwanda now, how long have you lived at your current residence?
6) What was your occupation in Rwanda prior to April 1, 1994? What has your occupation been since that time?
7) Do you have funds in any foreign accounts? Where? How much?
S) Did you suffer any financial losses during the civil conflict in Rwanda? If so, please explain.
9) If you have not been living in Rwanda since April 1, 1994, where have you been since that time? What were you doing there?
10) Have any of your immediate family members (wife, mother, father, brothers, sisters) been in Rwanda since April 1, 1994?
11) If so, what were they doing there?
12) If not, where have they been since that date? What were they doing there?
13) Were you or anyone in your immediate family members or employees of the government, of the military, or of any political party of Rwanda? If so, when and in what capacity did you/they serve?

Visas issued to Rwandans should be annotated to reflect Department clearance, and the date on which such clearance was obtained (example: DOS clearance 8/26/98). This requirement is being established in order to cut down on

The number of sag's required for individuals who have already undergone Department review of their case for possible security-related (i.e. genocide) ineligibilities.



***SIERRA LEONE

Official Travel

Posts should submit sag requests for Sierra Leonean diplomats and officials permanently assigned to the Sierra Leone Embassy in Washington or to the Sierra Leone Mission to the U.N. in New York. Sag requests are not required for g4 applicants or for individuals temporarily assigned to or attending meetings at one of the missions listed above. Sag requests should be slugged for CA/VO/L/C, AF/W, IO/UNP, and S/CPR.

Posts must also submit sag requests on any applicant who is a possible member of the former AFRC/RUF Military Junta in Sierra Leone, and anyone who is a family member (spouses, children, parents, siblings or other individuals financially dependent on and/or living with junta members) of the above individuals. The following list may assist posts in determining which individuals may have been members of the AFRC/RUF Military Junta. Anyone associated with any of the groups listed, or who used any of the titles below may be considered a possible AFRC/RUF Military Junta member.

  1. Members of leading organs of the Former SL Junta:


    2. Armed Forces Revolutionary Council (AFRC)
    Supreme Council
    People's Revolutionary Bureau
    Office of the Chairman
    State Monitors

  2. Members of the Rebel Military Forces in SL:


    3. Special Task Force (STF)
    People's Army of Sierra Leone
    Revolutionary United Front (RUF)

  3. Persons who held the following titles with the Former Military Junta:


    4. People's Revolutionary Leader
    Secretary Of State*
    Under Secretary of State*
    Principal Liaison Officer (PLO)

*Note: Secretary Of State and under Secretary of State are titles used by members of the AFRC cabinet. Members of President Kabbar's cabinet who use the titles Minister, Deputy Minister, and Minister of State are not/not subject to the SAO requirement. End note.

SAO requests based on Military Junta membership should be slugged for CA/VO/L/C and AF/W. Please note that any applicant presenting a Sierra Leonean passport issued between May 25, 1997 and March 10, 1998 should apply for a new passport. If he or she is unable to present a passport issued outside this timeframe, posts should submit an SAO request for the individual, slugged for CA/VO/L/C and AF/W.



***SERBIA MONTENEGRO

I. Nonofficial Travel: None For Private Citizens. See Below For Guidance On Nonofficial Travel by GOSM Officials

II. Official Travel:

Visas Donkey and Bear SAO Requests

An SAO request must be submitted on all visa applications made by diplomats and government officials of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia and Serbia for all/all types of visas. SAOs should be submitted in the "Visas Bear" or "Donkey" format, as appropriate, with the cable slugged for CA/VO/L/C, EUR/SCE and IO/UNP. Please include AmEmbassy Belgrade as an info addressee. Once an SAO request has been sent, the department's response is required prior to visa issuance.



SOMALIA

I. Nonofficial Travel: None

II. Official Travel:

"Visas Bear" Security Advisory Opinion Requests

The United States does not consider any government to exist in Somalia and does not issue official or diplomatic visas to Somali nationals. The case of any Somali claiming official status and applying for an A, C-3, or G (except G-4) visa must be submitted to the Department for an advisory opinion by means of a "Visas Bear" telegram. Such telegrams must be slugged for CA/VO/L/A, AF/E, and IO/UNP. Once a "Visas Bear" advisory opinion has been requested, the Department's response is required prior to visa issuance.



***SOUTH AFRICA

No Special Processing Requirements. Previous SAO Requirement Lifted 16 Jan 1998. See 98 State 9019.



***SUDAN

General

Nonofficial and Official Travel:

There are two special processing requirements for Sudanese, (97 State 5294 and 98 State 51370) - if an applicant falls into either or both categories, an SAO request is required. The first is for members or officials of the Sudanese Government or Armed Forces. SAOs should be slugged for CA/VO/L/C and AF/E.

  1. Military officials with the rank of Colonel and above;
  2. Sudanese Government Officials with a rank of State Minister (equivalent to Vice-Minister) and above;
  3. All personnel working for the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Interior;
  4. Members of the National Assembly; and,
  5. Presidents and/or Chairmen of Sudan's Major Parastatals.

Sudanese officials travelling to the U.S. on official business with the United Nations, the world bank or the IMF are not affected by this requirement. However, officials must provide the consular section with a diplomatic note or other official evidence of their reasons for travel. Visas should be annotated to show that travel in the U.S. is restricted to within a 25-mile radius of Columbus circle in New York or within a 25-mile radius of the White House in Washington, D.C. applicants for "A" visas are also subject to the SAO requirement.

The second SAO requirement involves sanctions against Sudan. Posts should submit SAO requests on any individual applying for any type of visa who fits into any one of the categories below:

  • Individuals whose trip to the U.S. is being sponsored, supported and/or paid for by the Government of Sudan.
  • Individuals who through their proposed activities in the U.S. may have access to sensitive technology or proprietary knowledge, and may intend to export such technology or information.
  • Applicants whom ConOff has reason to believe will engage in trade involving Sudan and the U. S.
  • Student and exchange visitor visa applicants (F, M, J), regardless of residence, who have overcome 214b, and whom ConOff has reason to believe intend to study any item on the technology alert list (Ref B). Posts should evaluate future study plans when deciding whether an applicant falls within this category (i.e. what does an ESL student plan to study after English?)
  • A-3 or G-5 applicants serving missions other than Sudan's

SAO Format, Contents

Please include the following information in SAO requests, keyed to alphabetical letters.

  1. Source of financial support for U.S. trip (please be specific)
  2. Occupation or current activity, workplace (please address whether workplace or employer falls within the definition for a Government of Sudan entity)
  3. Specific activities planned in U.S., including contact names, company or school names, phone numbers, addresses and proposed itinerary
  4. Employment and academic history
  5. Area of expertise, interests (please be as specific as possible when post has concerns regarding technology transfer, citing type of service, commodity or information to be purchased, sold or traded; proposed level of access to technology, etc. If applicant plans to study, please try to determine future course of study, i.e. what does applicant plan to study after ESL classes? If applicant is attending conferences, meetings or speaking engagements, what precisely is the subject matter?)
  6. Any post comments on applicant's ties to the Government of Sudan or proposed visit
  7. Contact information (name, address, phone number for contacts at all U.S. destinations)
  8. Intended activities after U.S. visit
  9. Residence at time of application (also, how long has the applicant resided there?)

SAO requests based on this second requirement should be slugged for CA/VO/L/A, AF/E and EB/ESP unless access to or use of sensitive technology is involved, in which case CA/VO/L/C should also be included as an addressee on all SAO requests.

CA/VO/L/A is in the process of revising the guidance on Sudanese employment-based visas (H, L, P (except P4) ,O2, E13, E21, E31, E32, EW3, SDL, and SRI.) Until further notice, posts should notify L/A when a Sudanese employment based application is received. Unless potential security ineligibilities exist, SAO requests are not required for these individuals.



TAJIKISTAN - Same As Armenia

TURKMENISTAN - Same As Armenia

UKRAINE - Same As Armenia

UZBEKISTAN - Same As Armenia



***VIETNAM

I. General

Submission of Visa Applications and Photographs

A copy of the visa application (Form OF-156) of all nonimmigrant visa recipients, with a recent, original photograph firmly affixed (two photographs in the case of professional diplomatic couriers) must be sent directly and expeditiously to the Northeast Regional Computer Support Center, 1203 Nealis Avenue, Fort Monmouth, New Jersey 07703, Attention: Dept. Ils. This procedure is in addition to telegraphic name check requirements listed below. Exceptions to this procedure are:

    1. No application or photograph need be submitted in cases involving chief and deputy chiefs of state, heads of government, chiefs of mission, their immediate families and accompanying crew members; and,
    2. No photographs need be provided if one has been submitted within the previous three years.

II. Name Checks Not Required

"Visas Eagle" telegrams are not required for Vietnamese nonimmigrant visa applicants other than in the categories described below.

Nonofficial Travel

"Visas Eagle" Name Check Requests

Postcheck Issuance:

A "Visas Eagle" telegram must be submitted immediately following visa issuance to all applicants for F-1 visas coming to study in a non-scientific/technical field other than undergraduate students under 30 years of age.

"Visas Eagle Vietex" Name Check Requests:

The "Visas Eagle Vietex" designator is no longer in use. Cases involving potential technology transfer should be reported in the "Visas Donkey Mantis" format. A "Donkey Mantis" cable is an SAO, not a name check and as such, once a mantis has been sent, the Department's authorization is required prior to visa issuance.

"Visas Eagle" Name Checks

"Visas Eagle" telegrams must also be submitted for the following persons:

  1. K Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants;
  2. Immigrant Visa Applicants; and
  3. Applicants for Refugee Status.

These cases may be processed to conclusion 10 working days after submission of the Visas Eagle telegram unless otherwise advised by the Department.

Official Travel

"Visas Horse" Name Check Requests

A "Visas Horse" telegram must be submitted immediately following the issuance of an A, C-3, or G visa.

"Visas Bear" SAO Requests

The cases of official and diplomatic visa applicants who otherwise require Security Advisory Opinions (DPT-00 class entries, possible ineligibility under INA 212(a)(3), etc.) must be submitted by means of a "Visas Bear" telegram.



ZAIRE

See Congo, Democratic Republic of

Minimize Considered.

Madeleine Albright