Published on January 13, 2006

New services arranged by the American Embassy in Bangkok will make it easier for people to apply for visas to the United States, Ambassador Ralph L Boyce said yesterday.

The embassy will launch its new Visa Information and Appointment Website and Call Centre on Thursday for applicants from 247 locations nationwide.

Consul General Ed Wehrli said the new services, which will enable people to apply for visas via email or phone, should lessen the need for them to wait in long queues outside the embassy.

Long lines of people form at the embassy on every working day from the early morning.

The web service will allow applicants to schedule a consular interview within three months.

On the new phone service, operators speaking Thai and English will help callers with questions about how to fill in application forms as well as schedule an interview.

To gain access to the new web service, applicants will need to obtain a PIN number. The PIN number will give them unlimited, 24-hour access to the “Visa Information and Appointment Website” for 90 days after registration, and 10 days after an interview appointment.

The web service will cost Bt400 and the phone service Bt720. The visa fee is Bt4,000 and can be paid at Pay Point counters in 76 provinces.

Lisnaree Vichitsorasatra

The Nation

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Scientists’ ‘passports’

Talented students will be presented with “scientists’ passports” at a ceremony at Government House today with the PM.

Science and Technology Minister Pravich Ratana-pian said on Wednesday the Ministry would launch the “scientists’ passport”, awarding special rights to students with outstanding academic achievements, in a bid to support Thai youths talented in science and technology.

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