Some consulates, however, require advance appointments. Many others now process visa applications by mail, drop box, or through an authorized travel agency or courier service. The procedures at each consulate can differ, and those procedures may change without notice. It is advisable to allow as much time as possible between the date of application and the date of intended travel. The US Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs maintains a list of links to US consulates throughout the world .
Many consulates now post their requirements and procedures on their home pages.
All consulates have a section set aside for nonimmigrant visa applications and issuance. A standard procedure for some consulates is for the visa applicant to make a personal appearance at the consulate and submit the application to a consular representative who makes a preliminary review of the papers for completeness. After the papers are reviewed by a consular officer, the applicant will be called to a front counter, window, or desk to answer some questions regarding the visa application. If the application is approved, the visa applicant waits while the machine-readable stamp is affixed to the passport. There are two types of paperwork you must submit to obtain a J-1 visa.