US consulate in Ykaterinburg? Anybody know?

[Burt]

I correspond with a business woman from small town in vicinity of Ykaterinburg.  I own a small US corp, and working together we're going to apply for a business visa for her to visit the states. My company is putting together a pretty strong sponsor package, but I assume she'll have to do personal interview at the US embassy in Moscow.  

Hoping to avoid a round trip to Moscow, does anybody know if US has a consul or other embassy office in Ykaterinburg with authority to grant visas? Or do you know how I can find out? (For various reasons it's very difficult for the lady to get this accurate info herself.)

Thanks much, and any other comments based on your experience will also be appreciated.

[Burt]

... in response to US consulate in Ykaterinburg?  Anybody k..., posted by Burt on Jan 30, 2002

John and RW -- I appreciate your help, and I will use your advice to good advantage.  RW, thanks especially.  This is the second time you've give me helpful information. -- Burt

[RW]

... in response to US consulate in Ykaterinburg?  Anybody k..., posted by Burt on Jan 30, 2002

Here is address for their website:

http://www.uscgyekat.ur.ru/

If she needs JUST a business visa, she does not need to go to Moscow, these types of visas are processed by the Consulates. And yes, she will have an interview at the Consulate unless you prepare such a good package of the documents that there will be no questions necessary.

It still will be good to make sure she has documents identifying enough finances or financial support from American organization.

The best way to go would be to do this kind of exchange WITH support of Commercial Service of US Consulate. Tell her to contact Commercial service FIST in search of American partner and over time find you as a potential partner and ask if Commercial service would support visa application. That would be a definite winner. But of course, for that you DO need to have a sound business both in USA and in Russia.

There are many ways you can do it, but it requires time and good preparation.

Good luck,

Russian Wife

[JohnG]

... in response to US consulate in Ykaterinburg?  Anybody k..., posted by Burt on Jan 30, 2002

Burt,

I believe there is a US Consulate office in Yekaterinberg, but how much authority they have I don't know. If you visit the US Govt Embassy pages on the web, there is more information to be had on the various embassies and consulates.