US 'Virtual Consulate' launched

It was launched by US Consul General Andrew Simkim, and Michael Pelletier, Consul for Public Affairs, to coincide with the fifth anniversary celebrations of the American Corner.
“Bangalore has gained fame worldwide as the capital of information technology in India.
We are glad to have the new website operational. It will provide details on all aspects related to education, courses offered in universities, visa procedures, and the history and culture of the United States of America,” said Pelletier.

He also expressed satisfaction with the American Corner for bringing the people of the world’s oldest and largest democracies closer.

At your fingertips

BVB Chairman N Ramanuja, who spoke on the occasion, said people can now access all information pertaining to the US at the American Corner.

The ‘Virtual Consulate’ is the US’ first virtual presence in India, providing news, events and services for Bangalore. The website is managed by the US Consulate General, Chennai.

For immigrants to the US, the website lists details including fees, Immediate Relative (IR) immigration, Family Based (F) Immigration, Employment Based (E) Immigration, documents required for visa, medical exam, appointments, common mistakes, lost/stolen green cards, ‘V’ visas, and marriage between US citizen and a foreign national.

Details on temporary visitors, how to apply for a US visa, visits, interviews, and more are also listed on the portal.

The American Corner serves as a window to life and culture in the United States and the first stop for accurate and up-to-date information about cultural, educational, political, economic, and social trends in the United States.

Resources include books, magazines, CD-Roms, DVDs, and public access to the internet.
Services include open access to materials, reference services, photocopying and invitations to programmes organised by the Chennai Consulate.

For further details visit http://bangalore.usvpp.gov