GENERAL INFORMATION

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The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Sofia, Bulgaria accepts applications for nonimmigrant visas. You do not have to be a resident of Bulgaria to apply in Sofia. However, the consular officers in Sofia may be unable to issue you a visa if they cannot evaluate the evidence you submit or if you cannot establish your intent to return to your country of residence.

A nonimmigrant visa for a particular category is valid for entry only for the purpose for which it was originally issued. For example, a student visa cannot be used for entry as a visitor, nor can the possessor of a visitor visa enter to study. For further information on visa classification click here.

A visa is not a guarantee of entry into the United States. The bearer of a visa is subject to inspection at the port of entry by U.S. Immigration officials who have authority to deny admission. Therefore, the recipient of a visa should carry with him/her, for possible presentation to immigration inspectors, the evidence submitted to the consular officer when the visa was obtained.

Please Note: The validity period shown on a nonimmigrant visa relates only to the period during which it may be used in making application for admission into the United States. It does not indicate the length of time the alien may spend in the United States. The U.S. Immigration authorities at the port of entry determine the period for which the bearer of a nonimmigrant visa is authorized to remain in the United States. Remaining in the United States beyond the period authorized is a violation of law that can lead to deportation. It may also make you ineligible to receive U.S. visas in the future.

Temporary visitors are not permitted to work while in the United States. Unauthorized employment is a violation of the law that can lead to deportation. It may also make you ineligible to receive U.S. visas in the future.

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