Just checked the US government website for non-immigrant visa processing times; looks like a 2 week wait for the interview and 1-day for the issuance if all goes to plan and there's no extra processing and paperwork needed. I am assuming that they would take the passport from you at the interview stage, correct? Does anyone know if there's any option for the applicant to keep the passport for work-related travel if embassy needs any extra visa processing time?

This is for a full British passport with the holder ineligible for the visa-waiver process.

They'll keep the passport for about two (2) days then EMS it back to you, if you've paid for the EMS envelope at the window before going in for the interview waiting area.

http://bangkok.usembassy.gov/non-immigrant_visas.html

Question: Do I have to use the appointment and the courier passport return systems?

Answer: Yes, these systems are mandatory, and designed to speed up visa processing. Applicants cannot pick up their visas at the Embassy, but if desired can make arrangements to do so at Rong Muang post office.

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Mac