State Department Seal U.S. Embassy Press Releases

376 Jalan Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Tel: 603-2168-5000 Fax: 603-2142-2207.
Bahasa Malaysia text September 27, 2002
(KL/02/09/32)
U.S.Embassy Malaysia


NEW U.S. ENTRY AND EXIT REGULATIONS TO TAKE EFFECT BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 2002

(KL/02/09/32) The United States Embassy in Malaysia is pleased to announce that the backlog of US visa applications that many Malaysian citizens encountered this summer is now being cleared, and thousands of foreign travelers whose applications previously encountered delays in processing will now see speedier visa decisions. In the future, most US visas for Malaysian applicants should be ready within one month from the time of application. Malaysians are encouraged to apply for US visas as early as their travel plans are made, however, to ensure that they are able to leave on schedule.

We also wish to advise Malaysians to allow extra time to make travel connections after arriving at US ports of entry. Beginning on October 1, 2002, the National Security Entry-Exit Registration System (NSEERS) is expanding to include registration of some individuals from every country. This new procedure may result in delays for some people entering or leaving the United States. These new procedures are the result of a US Congressional initiative to implement an entry-exit system that increases scrutiny of nationals of all countries at US borders.

Just as Malaysia and other countries around the world regulate their borders and verify that all visitors have legitimate reasons for entry, the foremost responsibility of the US Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) is the national security of the United States of America and enforcement of US immigration regulations. The National Security Entry Exit Registration System includes the registration, fingerprinting and photographing of some individuals arriving at US points of entry. Every effort will be made to streamline this process and to minimize inconveniences to travelers, but some delays are possible. The decision of which individuals will be asked to register will be based on information about the current threat of terrorism.

Along with citizens of many other countries, some Malaysian citizens are likely to be encounter these new procedures upon their arrival in the US. We regret any additional delays or inconveniences that these new procedures may cause to Malaysians and to others who entering the United States. Additional information for potential travelers will be provided by US Embassies and Consulates when their visas are issued, and is also available from the US Embassy website in Malaysia (www.usembassymalaysia.org.my).

Embassy Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday 7:45 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Tel: 603-2168-5000 Fax: 603-2142-2207.
E-mails: Visa Service | Commercial Service | Lincoln Resource Center
This site is produced and maintained by the Lincoln Resource Center, Public Affairs Office, U.S. Embassy Malaysia. Links to other Internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views contained therein.
Site Index | Embassy Main Page  | Department of State  |  Privacy Notice |  Webmaster