What is EVUS (Electronic Visa Update System)?

The Electronic Visa Update System also referred as the EVUS visa is a program established by the United States Department of Homeland security. This online system is to be used by nationals of China who hold a 10-year B1/B2, B2 or B2 visitor visa. The EVUS allows those who own a People’s of Republic of China passport to update basic biographic information and simplify their travel to the United States.

Toward the end of 2016, on November 29th, it became mandatory to enroll in the EVUS program in order to travel to the United States. People that are subject to EVUS requirement but not have a valid enrollment will be denied entry to the United States.

The Electronic Visa Update System addresses law enforcement and security concerns in relation to long-term validity visa holders. Currently the EVUS program applies to anyone who holds a People’s Republic of China passport and a US visitor visa. However, it is expected that moving forward this program will extend to other countries such as Mexico, Venezuela and Colombia.

We would like to point out that those individuals who hold other travel documents such as a Hong Kong SAR, Macau SAR will be able to continue to visit the United States without any action on their part. The citizens of Taiwan who hold a Taiwanese passport are required to apply for an ESTA Visa Waiver.

The online enrollment process for the American EVUS visa update is quite simple and all Chinese nationals with a visitor visa should complete the application a minimum of 72 hours before departure. The system usually takes an average of 20 minutes to verify the individual’s data, however some applications could undergo a longer verification process.

The process is secure and an individual’s data is protected and remains private. When you enroll for the EVUS your passport and visitor visa should be valid and current. If your passport or B1, B2 visa is approaching expiration and you have already applied for the EVUS we recommend you update your information using your enrollment number.

The EVUS is granted for a period of 2 consecutive years from the day of enrollment or until the passport of visa expires. If this occurs, it is necessary to renew your American EVUS visa update before you travel to the United States.

Previous Post Next Post
