Come July 26, 2004, the US Consulate will begin the process of electronic fingerprinting of visa applicants in Mumbai.

"It is a quick and inkless procedure and there will be no additional fees attached to this system," Consul General Augus Simmons told reporters.

The new 'Biometric' visa rule does not apply to children under the age of 14 and adults over 79.

Diplomatic and official visas, and those for employees of international organisations (A-1, A-2, G-1, G-2, G-3 and G-4 visas) are exempted from this process.

He clarified that the visas issued prior to the introduction of this procedure will continue to be valid through their expiration date and do NOT need to be replaced with a 'Bio Visas'.

"This new procedure is designed to facilitate travel to the United States by international visitors while maintaining the security of our borders, our nation and the safety of the traveling public. This rule is applicable worldwide to any person coming from any part of the world to the USA," added Simmons.

Photograph: Jewella C Miranda

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