Author: washingtonexp

Starting businesses in the US should be a relief because of job creation and the promoting of a better economy. One would think entrepreneurship would not be a struggle for immigrants with this agenda, however, it is.

Entrepreneurs are now experiencing challenges obtaining and maintaining Visas in the United States reported CNNMoney. The requirements are strict and out of reach by many immigrants. The investor visa costs $1 million, making it too expensive for most entrepreneur immigrants just starting their business. The executive visa allows entrepreneurship only if the business in the US is a subsidiary of their homeland business. The reason entrepreneurs desire to come to the US is for the best environment and market to for start-up success.

The E-2 Visa is the least challenging of them all and the most commonly sought after for start-ups. An entrepreneur can enter into the US with this visa based on an investment being made here. It can be continually renewed, however, it must be renewed every other year and provides no path to permanent residency.

The US immigration system has become downright painful in some instances. “It’s just not right and not fair. I am an American,” said Lauren Gray in the report. “I had so many plans here, so many options, so many connections. I’m going to have to learn an entire new culture. This was said in response to the Gray family discovery that their daughter, now 21 years old, can not remain under her parents’ E-2 Visa any longer. She must obtain her own visa which could take some time. Without it, she will have to return to their native country Britian. The heart-broken family moved to the US to manage a hotel and a restaurant, which positively impacted the community with more jobs.

In another instance, a family returned to Ireland to renew their visas, only to find out while there US immigration officials denied renewal. As a result, their business closed. They were able to get back in temporarily, yet what a harsh reality to experience being an immigrant entrepreneur. There is hope for the immigration system and representatives pushing to make changes. One example is Representative John Conyers who proposed a bill last month that would offer green cards to entrepreneurs with E-2 Visas who hire at least five Americans. Many agree it needs to be fixed and this is a major step in the right direction.

If you do need to know how to obtain an E-2 Visa, you do not have to look any farther. Expedited Visa services like Washington Express Visas, can assist you with all of your visa needs. Washington Express Visas specializes in Visa Processing and Authentication. Our expedited service provides same day pick-up and specially trained visa processing agents to deliver your visa applications for processing and authentication to every Embassy in the Washington, DC area. Call (202) 393-3030 or (877) 675-5571 today!

References: CNNMoney, 8.6.12, Jose Pagliery, Visas come up short for entrepreneurs

Tags expedited visa, Visa processing, visa services

The Red Square, the Catherine Palace of Saint Petersburg and the Kremlin are just to name a few of the most historical sites in the world. They are all located in mighty Russia. Visiting other countries is one thing, but getting access to experience Russia is in a category all of its’ own. If you are attempting to obtain a visa to Russia, you may want to count the cost first.

Russia is one of the hardest countries to obtain a visa. Recently the Washington Post reported a father’s pursuit to get an expedited Russian visa for his son desiring to take a summer trip to Russia. It was harder than he had ever imagined. The father begins his journey by traveling to the Russian Visa Center in Georgetown because applications must be hand-delivered. As he arrives, the center is very disorganized and difficult. There were no ticket dispensers for people in line. The operation had several different breaks and only accepts visa applications in the morning.

The date of entry into Russia has to be correct or your application will be rejected. This was another experience the father had resulting in him having to go correct the application and resubmit it via express. One of the reasons for the laborious process for obtaining a Russian visa is the outsourcing of the visa processing. As of April 10th of this year, the Russian Embassy’s visa processing is handled by contractor Invisa Logistics Services (ILS). Along with the new company, came special forms that had to say “ILS” and not the previous embassy form titled “WAS” or they would not be accepted. Also any checks or money orders had to be made out to ILS and not the Russian Consulate.

It appears with the transition being so new in April, the people that ran into the processing bumps during the new system seemed to get hurt the most. Aleksander Kovganov, the ILS head, said the office had “some problems” in May, second month the ILS office was in business. He also stated in the report, inspite of all the visa processing problems, “the decision to open this office was made to improve service”. The operation should have worked out the errors now, however, it’s clear that it is best to begin your Russia visa processing month in advance to avoid any delays.

If you need visa processing to Russia or any where else in the country, Washington Express Visas can help. We specializes in Visa Processing and Authentication. Our expedited service provides same day pick-up and specially trained visa processing agents to deliver your visa applications for processing and authentication to every Embassy in the Washington, DC area. Washington Express has been in business for 30 years with offices in Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia. We provide prompt and reliable service- you’ll always speak with a live person. We have the fastest available in the region with a 99% on-time track record. Our messengers specialize in urgent, on-demand delivery and can be trusted. Call us at 1-202-393-3030 today!

References: 7.6.12, Washington Post, Alexander Zemlianichenko Jr-Getting a Russian visa takes a lot of application

Tags expedited visa, Russian Visa, Visa processing, visa Russia, visa services

Independence Day, also known as the 4th of July, is the holiday the US commemorates our Declaration of Independence. It is one of the most popular holidays during the year. It also occurs during the best season to travel and have a hot, fun vacation. Statistically from the AAA, 42.3 million Americans will be traveling for the holiday this year, the highest amount within a decade. Whether you are traveling to the United States or abroad, there are some beautiful place in the world to enjoy.

If you are taking a vacation this week and seeking where to travel on the 4th of July, below are some suggested great places you can go.

Florida is one of the most beautiful states in the US and is an excellent place to travel during this 4th of July. The states is known for its’ white sand beaches and theme parks galore. Walt Disney World is one the most famous theme parks in the world and is located right in Orlando, Florida. London, England is a country full of historical sites, such as St. Stephens Tower and Buckingham Palace. Traveling to London is so significant this year because they are the proud hosting country of the 2012 Summer Olympics.

If cruises are your favorite way to travel, Alaska is breathtaking during this time of year. Another top rated place to travel during this holiday week is Boston, Massachusetts. Rich in colonial history and American heritage, Boston has filled its’ calendar with several events to celebrate America’s independence. So be sure to participate in the Boston Harborfest this week, as it will be a fun-filled time for everyone.

Traveling does require much more than just you and your bags. If you need a visa or passport, Washington Express Visas is a great choice for you. Washington Express Visas specializes in Visa Services and Passport Processing and Document Authentication. Our expedited service provides same day pick-up and specially trained visa processing agents to deliver your visa applications for processing and authentication to every Embassy in the Washington, DC area. For more information on our Visa and Passport Processing services and Document Legalization, please call us at 202-393-3030 or 877-675-5571 or visit visas@washingtonexpressvisas.com today!

References: www.newsroom.aaa.com, 6.19.12, AAA Projection for Independence Day Holiday Travel Ties Record for Highest Volume in Past Decade

Tags document authentication, document legalization, expedited visa, Visa processing, visa services

During the course of much travel, it is not uncommon to get water stains, marks, and scratches on your passport. It comes with the travel territory. But this is light compared to actual tears and rips to where your passport appears to have been mangled. You’ve had it for years and now it’s encountered serious damage.

A passport is defined as damaged by certain extents to where the passport no longer is legible or recognizable. The US State Travel Agency states if there is significant damage to the book cover, personal data, or photo, you will have to apply for a new passport. The government site also provides a list of damage types as well. These damages below include:

Significant tears
Water damage
Unofficial markings on the data page
Missing visa pages
A hole punch and other injuries

All of the above may require passport renewal and use of Form DS-11. In most cases of normal wear and tear, such as bending and fanning of the pages, your passport is fine. However, if you have any doubt your passport will make it, don’t try to rely upon clearance, because on your travel date, your damaged passport could get rejected.

“They took a look at our passports and said that my passport was mutilated, therefore I wasn’t able to fly”, said Kyle Gosnell in a Fox News report of how his passport was denied clearance due to damage. As a result, instead of being in Belize on vacation, his family was left stranded in Dallas. Make the proper steps and get a replacement passport.

If you have a damaged passport or need a passport replacement in a hurry, there are companies that provide expedited passport services. Companies like Washington Express Visas provides expedited passport processing service with same day pick up and specially trained passport processing agents to deliver your passport applications for processing at the Washington, DC Passport Agency. Our professional passport specialists hand carry your passport documents to ensure that your documents get the expedited attention they need to meet all of your travel needs and deadlines. Call us at (877) 675-5571 and let us help you with your passport today!

References: 2.21.12, www.kdvr.com/Fox 31 News, Hema Mullur-Denver family stranded after passport denied because of crease; www.travel.state.gov

March 11, 2011 marks one year to date when the horrific tsunami and earthquake hit Japan. The devastation took over 15, 000 lives and parts of the growing country demolished. The catastrophe hurt various steady and constant industries, including tourism.

Japan has begun to see some daylight with tourism growth in Tokyo and surrounding areas per a recent Newsday-Associated Press report. Shuichi Kameyama, director of the International Tourism Promotion Division at Japan Tourism Agency, stated tourist numbers in January this year are only 4% lower than January 2011. This is heading in the right direction, as projected tourist recovery would occur in 2012 by the World Travel and Tourism Council.

Tokyo is one of the major areas for tourism. The three disasters caused a nuclear plant meltdown in Fukushima, about 180 miles from Tokyo. However, signs of recovery is showing in the hotel industry. Malcolm Thompson, general manager of The Peninsula Tokyo hotel, said in the report, “Corporate business is 95 percent back,” he said. “It’s really the high-end leisure traveler from America and Europe. They’re the ones we are not seeing yet. They’re the ones who are still very tentative about Japan. We here know that everything is fine and life is back to normal in most parts of Japan, but that’s not the perception.”

Promotional campaigns are being made by Japan to help tourism recover. Japanese tourism officials will be launching a “Japan: Thank You” campaign to build tourist support. In the US, they will be celebrating the 100th anniversary of Japan’s gift of flowering cherry trees to Washington DC, which draws a million people. In New York there will be marked what will be called “Japan Week”. Digital cherry blossom displays will be held in Times Square and “Dine Out for Japan-Restaurant Week from March 7-11. Donations will given toward the disaster relief.

You can aid tourism recovery in Japan, yet, you will need a visa or passport to get there. Expedited visa and passport services provided by Washington Express Visas can meet all your travel needs. Washington Express Visas is the Washington DC metro area’s fastest Visa Services, Passport Processing, Document Legalization and Translations specialists. Washington Express Visas professional office staff and specially trained visa agents provide same day pick up service to deliver all our services to every Embassy and agency in the Washington, DC metro area. Call us at (877) 675-5571 today!

References: 3.9.12, Newsday-Associated Press, Beth J Harpaz-Japan tourism recovering a year after disaster

Tags expedited visa, passport processing, Visa processing, visa services

As of 2012, reports have found over 110 million of United States citizens possess a passport. This is one-third of the total US population and a record number for the world giant. Due to further attempts to make travel as safe as possible, this record indicates passports are being viewed by many now as a necessity for travel.

The US Department of State continues to help passport holders ability to travel and has announced a pilot program of an online application for passport cards. It will be valid for 10 years. This card can be used to travel from the US into nearby countries such as the Caribbeans, Bermuda, Canada and Mexico. It can not be used for international travel via air, therefore, travelers can turn to companies like Washington Express Visas to meet their standard and expedited passport needs.The requirements for eligibility reported to enter into the pilot passport card program are below:

Must be 16 years of age of older
Valid, 10 year U.S. passport book
At least 12 months of validity remaining on your passport book before expiration
U.S. or Canadian mailing address
E-mail address

There are some other measures taken in the process of identity confirmation. The online application will request information such as your social security number, mother’s maiden name, the emergency contact name and full permanent address on your most recent previous passport application. Also, the online application is secure with encryption technology and e-signature is required.

If the new program is successful, the greatest benefits will be the saving of what everyone desires when it comes to passports−money and time. There will be the elimination of postage costs for mailing and the application is available 24 hours/7days a week online. The pilot is scheduled for a 90-day trial (January 24 to April 22), after which, it will be analyzed for merit to becoming implemented permanently.

Whether a passport card or standard passport, both are valuable and can help you take advantage of most of the traveling we have come to enjoy. Do you need a passport? Washington Express Visas can help you. Washington Express Visas provides expedited passport processing service with same day pick up and specially trained passport processing agents to deliver your passport applications for processing at the Washington, DC Passport Agency. Our professional passport specialists hand carry your passport documents to ensure that your documents get the expedited attention they need to meet all of your travel needs and deadlines. Call 1-(202)-393-3030 today!

References: www.travel.state.gov/passport

Tags document authentication, passport processing, Visa processing, visa requirements, visa services

Turkey has released there will be new visa requirements for tourists in 2012. Beginning in February, visitors will only be able to stay in the country for up to 90 days within a 180 day period. This will also affect traveling of extended cruisers who will have to exit the country now, opposed to simply renewing in Rhodes. The change appears to be coming right before the main tourist season hits next year.The visa change is definitely informative, considering Turkey takes violating visa regulations very seriously. A violator can be fined upon departure, and the fine amount may be determined the be length of time overstayed. An individual can even be banned from re-entering Turkey if they overstay and are fined. Also if this occurs, a tourist will have to apply for their next visa at the Turkey Embassy or Consulate overseas.

Turkey is one of the highest traveled countries in the world today. Over 23 million people visit Turkey every year. The country is traveled by many for its’ diverse history, culture, and yachting, which is a favorite due to 5200 mile coastline. If you are considering traveling there and need a visa, Washington Express Visas expedited visa and passport services can assist you in obtaining the most current visa needs.

Our professional visa and passport services staff will have one of our specially trained visa agents take your visa and passport processing documents to the appropriate Embassy or agency and get your documents processed properly for less than traditional visa and passport processing services charge. Call us at 877-675-5571 today!

12.7.11, www.noonsite.com; Sue, New Turkish Visa Rules – starting February 2012 – Updated

Tags passport processing, Visa processing, visa requirements, visa services

MSNBC recently reported a man successfully uses his iPad to cross the border into the United States. Canadian traveler Martin Reisch was thirty minutes to border crossing, realizing he had left his actual passport at home. He decided to make an attempt of displaying to the U.S. Border officer a scanned copy of his passport from his iPad. “I thought I’d at least give it a try,” Reisch said. “He took the iPad into the little border hut. He was in there a good five, six minutes. It seemed like an eternity. When he came back he took a good long pause before wishing me a Merry Christmas.” He also used it tocross the border back home that same day.
There are other stated facts about the incident by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection that aided to Mr. Reisch success. No one can cross the U.S. border with merely a scanned image alone. “In this case, the individual had both a driver’s license and birth certificate, which the CBP officer used to determine identity and citizenship in order to admit the traveler into the country,” said spokeswoman for the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Jenny Burke. Canada ended the driver’s license only policy to cross the border in 2009.

Scanned passports are not anything unknown for several countries, especially Canada. Scanned passports have been the basis of creating the highly anticipated e-passports. In fact, Passport Canada, the agency that is responsible for canadian passports, is set to introduce e-passports by the end of 2012. Special diplomat pilot e-passport projects already exist and currently there are no difficulties reported.

Indeed, e-passports may be the way of the future. Until then, passports are still needed and there are companies like Washington Express Visas that can meet your needs. We are the Washington DC metro area’s fastest Visa Services, Passport Processing, Document Legalization and Translations specialists. Washington Express Visas has 29 years of experience and is also the Washington DC metro area’s largest and fastest courier service. Call (202) 393-3030 and let us help you today!

1.4.12, Msnbc.com staff and news service reports-updated, Canadian man uses iPad to enter US; 9.15.11,, Future Travel Experience, Canada set for 2012 ePassport rollout

Tags document authentication, expedited visa, passport processing, Visa processing, visa services

Holiday travel is a great time, but can be an awful time if we don’t pack properly. It can be stressful when we’re trying to make our flight and things just seem to make the packing aspect of your holiday experience difficult. There are recommended ways to pack this time of year to help you travel during the holidays with ease.

First of all, take only basic outfits. Coordinate your shoes, stockings, undergarments, and other accessories you are planning to bring. Roll the clothing up as well. Keep traveling with jewelry to a minimum. Put your socks inside your shoes. Store items such as jewelry, medications, and toiletries in pouches or ziplock bags between your clothing. This makes for space maximization and easy accessibility. If you are taking a short trip, decide you are going to take your dirty laundry home and pack a large plastic bag.

A great way to pack is to get everything you are traveling with into one soft side bag. One that is roughly 9″ + 14″ + 22″ = 45″ total. This size can fit under the airline seat in front of you. It will give you a sigh of relief if any delays or unexpected flight transfer occur due to the holiday travel volume, and all you have carry is one bag to make it to your connecting flight.

Most importantly, if you are traveling outside the country, don’t forgot your passport. Your holiday travel will come to a scretching halt if you leave your passport on the nightstand at home. If you need a passport, companies like Washington Express Visas can assist you. Their expertise in expediting passport and visa services can help meet your immediate travel needs and still enjoy your holidays.

Tags expedited visa, passport processing, visa services

Recent reports is that H1-B Work Visas are still available in the United States. There is a cap of 49,200 work visas that can be filed each year. The number of filings have steadily increased per month, with last month numbers at 19,100. Currently, the cap is not close to being met with 15,900 visas still not filed in 2011.

The H1-B visa is the most commonly used work visa for newly hired professionals. Most notably in professions such as engineering, IT, scientists, and business. The US Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS) caps all entries for this visa on April 1st of each year. They continue until that cap is reached. There is no cut-off date or deadlines for filing, it is just the issue of what year your filing with be grouped with. Therefore, if a worker files after April 1st, their H1-B Visa will be grouped with the 2012 cap.

Below is a list from the US Citizen and Immigration Services that shows a history of our yearly available H1-B Visas and when they were capped.

Year:	H1B Cap Numbers	Date H1B Cap Reached
2003	65,000	October 1, 2003
2004	65,000	October 1, 2004
2005	85,000	August 10, 2005
2006	85,000	May 26, 2006
2007	85,000	April 3, 2007
2008	85,000	April 7, 2008
2009	85,000	December 21, 2009
2010	85,000	January 26, 2011
2011	85,000	Present – Currently Open

This year’s openings could possibly be due to less interest in working in the United States with recent employment challenges. Inspite of its’ challenges, The United States is still a viable competitor in the global market and the uncapped filings show there’s opportunity to work in America. Expedited visas service companies are a good resource that have the expertise and up-to-date visa knowledge to make your visa process easy. Companies, such as Washington Express Visas, can assist you receive your H1-B work visa in an expedited manner.

Tags Business Visa, expedited visa, visa services

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