Student in Japan, but need a visa for the US. Can I apply for it in Osaka?

[one.daniela]

Greetings,

I am from Romania, and currently studying at Kyoto University in a graduate program. This summer, I would like to visit some friends (tourist visa) in the US but I need a visa. As I don't plan on going back to Romania to apply from there, I wonder if there is a possibility for me to apply at the US consulate in Osaka? I've been in the US 3 times, and each time, I came back within the period of the visa availability. If yes, should I try to get as many papers as possible from Kyoto University (to prove that I will come back)?

I don't plan on staying longer as I have to come back to finish my studies.

Your help is much appreciated.

[iago]

Greetings,

I am from Romania, and currently studying at Kyoto University in a graduate program. This summer, I would like to visit some friends (tourist visa) in the US but I need a visa. As I don't plan on going back to Romania to apply from there, I wonder if there is a possibility for me to apply at the US consulate in Osaka? I've been in the US 3 times, and each time, I came back within the period of the visa availability. If yes, should I try to get as many papers as possible from Kyoto University (to prove that I will come back)?

I don't plan on staying longer as I have to come back to finish my studies.

Your help is much appreciated.

Yes, if you are resident in Japan then you can apply via the US Consulate in Japan. Follow the procedures outlined on their web site.

http://japan.usembassy.gov/e/visa/tv...v-walkin1.html

[Tcheburashka]

I second it. No reason why they wouldn't take your application in the US embassy in Osaka.

[evilone]

I'm told (by a few independent sources) that the processing time for 3rd-country applicant visas to the US are MUCH shorter than applying at a US embassy/counsulate in ones home country so its probably advantageous to do so.

[Tcheburashka]

I'm told (by a few independent sources) that the processing time for 3rd-country applicant visas to the US are MUCH shorter than applying at a US embassy/counsulate in ones home country so its probably advantageous to do so.

Only in those countries where it normally takes short time. And only if they agree to deal with you in the first place, which is because you are a longterm resident OR you are in Switzerland or Canada where the US embassies accept applications from applicants of any origin.

[FrostbiteFalls]

Don't forget to get your Japan re-entry permit!

[Tcheburashka]

Don't forget to get your Japan re-entry permit!

Good point. I read an article by a Japanese immigration lawyer just yesterday, where he brought up something I wouldn't have thought about from a foreigner's perspective. He said that right now with so many foreigners leaving Japan the authorities get pissed that people want to avoid helping Japan out in hardship and come back later when the situation is better; he believes that the immigration control is going to get tightened, and that those foreigners who were already living in Japan before the earthquakes and left the country for any reason during the hard time would be particularly scrutinized when they come back. He specifically talked about work permits and said that those who had been working in Japan and now took leaves to fly away would be investigated when they come back, whether their jobs still exist. Otherwise the visas may be canceled, whether there is a reentry permit or not.
I can see how his concern can actually turn true. I hope this potential tightening won't affect your (OP) travel plans, but be on the safe side and make sure you have all the paperwork properly done.