US Embassy in Russia stiffens visa procedures

Today, the US Embassy in Russia will introduce new entry visa procedures for Russian nationals wanting to go to the USA. Sources in the embassy told RBC that the new procedures envisaged using biometrical information of individuals. In particular, from now on visa applicants will have their fingerprints scanned. According to the sources, these measures will help prevent the doctoring of entry visas, and in the long run facilitate giving out documents for those applicants whose passports and visas were lost or stolen. The sources reported that new procedures would be introduced at all embassies and consulates of the USA across the globe by October 26, 2004. New visa regulations will concern all applicants wanting to have a non-immigration US visa, age from 14 to 80, with the exception of diplomats, other officials going to the USA on an official visit as well as ill people in need of urgent treatment.