Following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, some changes were made in laws governing visitor entry and exit including additional forms and longer visa processing time.
Visa applicants are interviewed and two index finger scans are collected. The consular officer also evaluates the security risk presented by the applicant in addition to being satisfied that the applicant intends to honor the terms of the visa by returning home.
Tourist and Business Visas -- All male nonimmigrant tourist and business applicants between the ages of 16-45, regardless of nationality or other factors, must now complete a supplemental application form.
Student and Exchange Visas – In addition to the above all student and exchange visitor applicants must also get an authorization form from their sponsoring institution in the U.S.
Registration - All foreign visitors who enter and leave the US each year are registered as per the National Security Entry-Exit Registration System (NSEERS).
Registration is required for men 16 or older who are citizens of countries determined by the Attorney General to represent a potential national security threat. It is not based on ethnicity or religion.