As part of efforts to simplify visa formalities, the U.S. Embassy, in a tie-up with Emirates Call, is providing an automated appointment system for non-immigrant visa applicants starting next week.

Under the new system, visa applicants can choose an appointment that is convenient for them, thereby securing a guaranteed time.

From June 15, it will be mandatory to have an appointment to apply for a non-immigrant visa.

Callers from Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman will be able to make appointments either at the consulate or the embassy through Emirates Call, at a charge of Dh1.5 per minute.

Applicants resident in Dubai, Sharjah and outside the UAE, including Iran, will use the Bahrain Call number and will be charged for an international call to Bahrain. Both numbers of Emirates Call and Bahrain Call are available from June 12.

"Automated appointment systems are utilised by many large American embassies around the world with great success. It makes things easier, in better time management," said Gordon R. Olson, deputy chief of mission, U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi.

The UAE is the first country in this region to have this automated appointment system, he added.

Last month, the U.S. embassy received 2,900 visa applications in the UAE, said Mark Marrano, consular chief, U.S. Embassy. However, the number of visas granted was not disclosed.

Worldwide, non-immigrant visas to the U.S. have dropped by 17 per cent this year, he said.

The Abu Dhabi-based Emirates Call is the first company in the GCC providing an interactive voice response (IVR) system.

"Although there are five IVR companies in the UAE, we were selected by the Embassy of the United States. We plan to tie-up with some more embassies," said Ahmed Al Hosani, chief executive, Call Group International.