Securing a US visa appointment in Halifax, Canada is a crucial step for individuals residing in the Atlantic provinces—Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island—who wish to visit, study, work, or transit through the United States. The US Consulate General in Halifax facilitates a wide range of non-immigrant visa services, offering convenience for applicants seeking personalized support, shorter wait times, and easy accessibility.
In this comprehensive guide, we provide all the necessary steps, requirements, and tips to successfully schedule and attend your US visa interview in Halifax.
About the US Consulate General in Halifax
The US Consulate in Halifax is one of the oldest American diplomatic posts in the world. Located in the heart of downtown Halifax, it serves as the primary consulate for residents of the eastern maritime provinces of Canada. While it does not process immigrant (green card) visas, it offers full services for non-immigrant visa categories.
Who Should Apply in Halifax?
If you reside in:
- Nova Scotia
- New Brunswick
- Prince Edward Island
- Newfoundland and Labrador
Or you are a foreign national legally staying in Canada, the Halifax Consulate is an ideal location for your non-immigrant US visa interview.
Types of US Visas Processed in Halifax
1. B1/B2 Tourist and Business Visas
The B1 (business) and B2 (tourism) visas are the most common types. Halifax handles a large volume of visitor visa applications from Canadian PR holders and citizens of other countries residing temporarily in Canada.
2. F1/M1 Student Visas
Planning to pursue higher education or vocational training in the US? Halifax provides student visa interviews for F1 (academic) and M1 (vocational) categories, especially during peak admissions periods.
3. J1 Exchange Visitor Visas
Students, interns, teachers, or researchers participating in an approved exchange program require a J1 visa. Halifax facilitates interviews for all J1 program participants.
4. H, L, O, P, and R Work Visas
Professionals heading to the US on employment-based visas such as H1B, L1, O1, or P1 can apply at the Halifax consulate if eligible.
Note: Immigrant visas (green cards) are not processed at the Halifax consulate. Those must be scheduled through the US Consulate in Montreal.
Step-by-Step Process for US Visa Appointment in Halifax
Step 1: Fill Out the DS-160 Form
Visit the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) and complete the DS-160 form. Be accurate and ensure your answers match your supporting documents. Once done, save the confirmation page with the barcode.
Step 2: Create an Account and Pay the Visa Fee
Go to the official website, select “Canada,” and create your profile. Link your DS-160 form and proceed to pay the MRV fee:
- B1/B2 Visitor, F1 Student, J1 Exchange Visa: $185 USD
- Work Visas (H1B, L1, etc.): Ranges from $205–$315 USD
Payment options include credit card or bank transfer. Save the receipt for your records.
Step 3: Schedule Your Appointments
You must schedule two appointments:
- Biometrics (Fingerprinting) at a Visa Application Center (VAC)
- Visa Interview at the US Consulate General in Halifax
Appointment availability can change frequently. Monitor the portal daily for new openings.
Documents Required for US Visa Interview in Halifax
Bring the following to your interview:
- DS-160 confirmation page
- Appointment confirmation page
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity beyond US stay)
- Recent passport-sized photo (per US requirements)
- Proof of MRV payment
- Proof of legal status in Canada (e.g., study permit, work permit, PR card)
Additional documents depending on your visa type:
- F1/M1: I-20 form, SEVIS receipt, financial proof
- J1: DS-2019 form, sponsor letter, SEVIS receipt
- B1/B2: Travel itinerary, invitation letter, financial statements
- H1B/L1/O1: I-797 approval notice, employment letter, petition documents
Why Choose Halifax for Your US Visa Interview?
- Minimal wait times compared to larger consulates
- Personalized applicant service
- Convenient for Atlantic Canada residents
- Located in downtown Halifax with easy access
- Professional and experienced consular officers
US Visa Appointment Wait Times in Halifax
Wait times vary by season and demand. Average timelines include:
- Visitor Visas (B1/B2): 25–40 calendar days
- Student Visas (F1/M1): 10–15 calendar days
- Work Visas: 20–30 calendar days
Check real-time updates via the Visa Appointment Wait Times Tool.
Post-Interview: Visa Status and Passport Delivery
Once the interview is completed:
- If approved, your passport with visa will be returned within 5–10 business days.
- You can track your passport and visa status through:
- CEAC Visa Tracker
- The courier service chosen during booking.
- CEAC Visa Tracker
If your visa is placed under administrative processing (221g), you may need to submit additional documents or wait for further instructions.
US Consulate General in Halifax – Contact Details
Address:
1969 Upper Water Street
Suite 904, Purdy’s Wharf Tower II
Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 3R7
Canada
Phone: +1 902-429-2480
Website: https://ca.usembassy.gov
Important Tips for Visa Interview Success
- Arrive early with all documents organized
- Be honest, clear, and confident in your responses
- Dress professionally to make a strong impression
- Leave electronics and large bags at home
- Read your application carefully before the interview
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can anyone apply at the Halifax consulate?
Yes. As long as you have valid legal status in Canada, you can apply at the Halifax consulate.
Can I apply for an immigrant visa in Halifax?
No. All immigrant visa applications must go through the US Consulate in Montreal.
How often can I reschedule my appointment?
You may reschedule twice without penalty through your online visa profile.
What if I miss my appointment?
Missing an appointment without rescheduling may result in needing to repay the MRV fee. Always manage your appointments in advance.
Conclusion
Booking your US visa appointment in Halifax, Canada provides a streamlined, efficient, and applicant-friendly process. With its ideal location and experienced consular team, Halifax is the go-to destination for non-immigrant visa applicants in Atlantic Canada. Proper preparation, document organization, and timely scheduling will significantly improve your chances of visa approval.
