The Watch NewsPaper Sierra Leone

02/06/2023

Today's Edition of the Watch Newspaper
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U.S. Embassy Freetown, Sierra Leone
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19/05/2023

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Africell Sierra Leone
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SLAJ Iverify

09/05/2023

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U.S. Department of State
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The Calabash Newspaper

Today's Edition of the Watch Newspaper

08/05/2023

The Watch NewsPaper Sierra Leone
U.S. Embassy Freetown, Sierra Leone
U.S. Department of State
State House Sierra Leone
Gleaner Newspaper SierraLeone

Press Availability with Secretary of State Madeleine K. Albright
Freetown, Sierra Leone on October 18, 1999.

She said, " We have today the opportunity to let Freetown be true to its name once again, by helping peace take hold and renewal begin. The people of Sierra Leone are determined to bring that about -- and I am determined that the United States will do all it can to support them".

We are here for the people.

We Da Ya for Una

03/05/2023

The Watch NewsPaper Sierra Leone
U.S. Embassy Freetown, Sierra Leone
International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP)
U.S. Department of State
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On World Press Freedom Day, the U.S. Department of State Announces More Than 200 Journalists from Over 100 Countries and Territories to Participate in Flagship Journalism Exchange in 2023

MEDIA NOTE

OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON

MAY 3, 2023

Recognizing the vital role a free press plays in a free and democratic society, the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) announced today – on World Press Freedom Day – that more than 200 emerging journalists from over 100 countries and territories will participate in the Edward R. Murrow Program for Journalists, the Department’s premier journalism exchange this year. In 2023, 13 cohorts of journalists will travel to the United States on a rolling basis, with the most recent delegation of international journalists arriving in late April from countries across the Middle East and North Africa as well as Sub-Saharan Africa, including: the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Ghana, Mali, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, South Sudan, and Tunisia. In June, the next cohort of international journalists from Albania, Algeria, Azerbaijan, Belize, Chile, Czech Republic, Ethiopia, Ghana, Hong Kong, Lebanon, Malawi, Malaysia, Malta, Morocco, Norway, Panama, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Republic of Korea, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Tanzania, Thailand, and Zambia will arrive in the United States to participate in the Murrow Program.

The delegation from African nations is focused on print and radio journalism, and will travel in small groups for professional meetings, workshops, and activities with their American counterparts in the media, as well as faculty and students at various journalism schools at U.S. institutions of higher education. They will travel to: Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona; San Francisco, California; St. Petersburg, Florida; and Chicago, Illinois. While in these American cities, the delegation will engage on key issues facing journalism and journalists, best practices in reporting, as well as gain a greater understanding of how media work in the United States.

In June, the multi-regional delegation of 23 journalists will travel to Los Angeles, CA; Washington, D.C.; Tampa, FL; Bloomington and Indianapolis, IN; and Des Moines and Iowa City, IA, to focus on research and investigative journalism.

Named after Edward R. Murrow, the iconic American broadcast journalist who forged a high standard of journalism and reporting during World War II and thereafter, the Murrow Program is a part of the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP). For almost two decades, the Murrow program has brought nearly 2,000 international emerging journalists to the United States for a short-term exchange with their U.S. counterparts, which allows them to expand their networks and explore the essential role of an independent media in preserving and protecting a key pillar of democracy – a free press.

For press inquiries, contact the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs at [email protected]. Follow the upcoming Murrow programs on social media at .

03/05/2023

The Watch NewsPaper Sierra Leone
U.S. Embassy Freetown, Sierra Leone
The Calabash Newspaper
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Criminal Investigation Department
The Judiciary of Sierra Leone

Welcome to this week’s Ask the Consul Corner!

The U.S. Embassy Freetown Consular Section is committed to ensuring that legitimate travelers are able to obtain visas to the United States. However, there are individuals and organizations who seek to take advantage of applicants through visa fraud scams.

Visa fraud scams can take many forms, but they all involve someone offering to help you obtain a visa for a fee, promising special connections or faster processing times, or claiming to be able to guarantee a visa. These individuals often ask for payment upfront, and may ask for personal information such as your passport number or date of birth.

To avoid falling victim to visa fraud scams, we recommend the following:

1. Use the official U.S. Embassy website as your primary source of information on visas. The website provides detailed information on visa requirements, application procedures, and fees. You can also find information on how to schedule an appointment for an interview at the Embassy.

2. Be wary of anyone who promises to expedite your visa application or guarantees a visa. The visa process can take time, and there are no shortcuts or guarantees.

3. Do not pay any fees or provide personal information to anyone who claims to be able to help you obtain a visa. Legitimate visa fees are paid directly to the Embassy or the designated payment center.

4. Be cautious of unsolicited emails, phone calls, or text messages from individuals offering visa assistance. These may be scams designed to steal your personal information or money.

5. If you are unsure about the legitimacy of a visa service provider or have been the victim of a visa fraud scam, please contact the consular section at [email protected]

Remember, the U.S. Embassy is committed to ensuring that legitimate travelers are able to obtain visas to the United States. By being vigilant and informed, you can protect yourself from visa fraud scams and ensure a successful visa application process.

Sincerely,

U.S. Embassy Freetown Consular Section

28/04/2023

U.S. Embassy Freetown, Sierra Leone
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Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

On behalf of the United States of America, I offer congratulations to President Bio and the people of Sierra Leone as you celebrate 62 years of independence.

We stand with Sierra Leone as a democratic partner in supporting free and fair elections and value Sierra Leone’s leadership on global and regional issues including the fight against climate change and improved health security. I look forward to strengthening our close partnership on a wide range of initiatives which aim to strengthen democracy, support regional stability and security, ensure good governance, and further develop bilateral economic ties to the benefit of both Americans and Sierra Leoneans.

We look forward to expanding our relationship over the coming year and advancing our mutual interests. The United States stands proudly with our Sierra Leonean partners as you celebrate your Independence Day.

22/04/2023

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Today's Radio program on Choice FM 93.3 Ask the US Consular Office hour.

22/04/2023

U.S. Embassy Freetown, Sierra Leone
Gleaner Newspaper SierraLeone
The Watch NewsPaper Sierra Leone

Tune into Choice FM 93.3 and listen to " Ask the US Consular Office" Hour
A program designed to update Sierra Leoneans about the process and procedures before applying for a US Visa, ask questions, and get clarification and updates.

19/04/2023

U.S. Embassy Freetown, Sierra Leone
Gleaner Newspaper SierraLeone
State House Sierra Leone
The Judiciary of Sierra Leone
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Africell Sierra Leone

27/03/2023

U.S. Embassy Freetown, Sierra Leone
The Watch NewsPaper Sierra Leone
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Sierra Leone Commercial Bank

Today's Edition of the Watch Newspaper

24/03/2023

U.S. Embassy Freetown, Sierra Leone
State House Sierra Leone
Africell Sierra Leone
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Today's Edition of the Watch Newspaper

15/03/2023

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U.S. Embassy Freetown, Sierra Leone
Gleaner Newspaper SierraLeone
The Calabash Newspaper

Ask the US Consular office

Hello from the US Embassy!
It was great to get so many questions from the radio outreach sessions we’ve been doing to answer your questions on visas.

You’ve got questions and we have answers! Below, find responses to some of the questions we’ve received recently. Remember, the US government websites like www.travel.state.gov and the US Embassy website www.sl.usembassy.gov are the only place to find accurate information about traveling to the United States.

The only way to apply for a visa to the US is through the visa appointment website www.ustraveldocs.com.:

Q: I have an advanced diploma and over 10 years of experience, do I meet the educational requirements for the DV?

A: To qualify for the DV, you must have the equivalent of a high school diploma or you must have, within the past five years, at least two years of work experience in a profession that requires at least two years of training. In Sierra Leone that means you have to have either passed the WASSCE or O Levels, in five subjects, and received either “credit” or better on all five (between C6 and A1). One of the five subjects you’ve passed must be either English or math.

Q: I am pregnant, can I give birth in the US with my B1/B2 Visa?

A: Yes, you can give birth in the U.S. on a B1/B2 visa but you’ll need to disclose your plans to either the consular officer during your visa interview or, if you become pregnant later, to the officer when you are entering the United States. You’ll also need to show proof of your ability to pay for your medical expenses.

Q: As a student with an F1 Visa, am I allowed to work? If yes, how many hours?

A: Yes, a student can work on campus for up to 20 hours a week.

Q: Can I marry with my F1 Visa?

A: Yes, you can get married when you are in the U.S. on an F1 student visa, but if you intend to stay in the United States with your spouse, you will need to go through the process to adjust your status so you don’t overstay your student visa. If you travel to the US on a J1 visa, you need to come back to Sierra Leone for at least 2 years before you are eligible to get an immigrant status in the US.

Q: My Mother has petitioned for me to join her in the US, but the petition has not been granted yet. Can I apply to visit a friend while I wait for my petition to be granted?

A: Yes, you can apply for a B1/B2 tourist visa at any time, but you will need to be able to demonstrate to the consular officer your plans to return to Sierra Leone after your visit.

Q: Is the Visa fee refundable?

A: Unfortunately no. The fee is actually a fee to apply, for your application to be reviewed, and for you to come for the interview. This is why the fee is not refundable even if the visa is denied, as the processing is the same whether the application is successful or not.

Q: Can you help us with a list of less expensive universities in the US?

A: There are a lot of factors that go in to funding your education. In addition to tuition fees, the cost of living can vary a lot between different states and cities. Availability of public transportation, scholarship opportunities offered by the university or external sources all go in to this calculation.

You can find a lot of information about studying in the United States, including resources on how to find a university that fits your needs and budget and places to look for scholarship opportunities at www.educationusa.state.gov.

There are also a lot of resources about studying in the United States available to the public at the US Embassy’s American Center, located at Hill station in Freetown.

Q: I filled out my DS-160 form, submitted it, and printed out my confirmation late last year, but have not yet paid my visa fee. Can I head and pay or do I need to fill out another, maybe the previous one had expired

You can use the same DS-160. You’ll need to pay the visa fee at GT Bank and then schedule an interview.

Q: Does the DS 160 form expire?

The DS-160 is valid for one year from the date you submitted it.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

14/03/2023

U.S. Embassy Freetown, Sierra Leone
State House Sierra Leone
Southwest Center for HIV/AIDS
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Today's Edition of the Watch Newspaper

Follow on www.thewatchnewssl.com

13/03/2023

U.S. Embassy Freetown, Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone Commercial Bank
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Germany Tourism

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07/03/2023

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The Watch NewsPaper Sierra Leone

https://fb.watch/j74Z6CkmK5/?mibextid=qC1gEa

21/02/2023

Today's Edition of the Watch Newspaper

U.S. Embassy Freetown, Sierra Leone
The Watch NewsPaper Sierra Leone
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Daudablaq Lugbu Kamara

15/02/2023

U.S. Embassy Freetown, Sierra Leone

Today's Edition of the Watch Newspaper

01/02/2023

U.S. Embassy Freetown, Sierra Leone

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The Watch NewsPaper Sierra Leone

“Ask the Consular Office” Column



Hello from U.S. Embassy Freetown! Welcome to our regular newspaper column to answer questions about obtaining a U.S. visa. Today we will explain the two most common types of non-immigrant visas - B1/B2 visas for business and tourism and F1 student visas - and how to apply for them.

B1/B2 visas are for business and/or tourism. For example, you could go on vacation, consult with business associates, or attend a conference. You cannot study, work, or stay for longer than 6 months.
F1 student visas are for applicants hoping to go to school in the United States. With an F1 visa you can go to university or high school in the United States.

How to apply for a U.S. visa
To apply for a B1/B2 visa, you’ll first need to visit this website: https://www.ustraveldocs.com/sl/index.html. Here you will first submit the DS-160 form online. Next, you’ll need to pay the $160 visa fee at GT Bank in Freetown. Once you have done those two things, you’ll need to book an interview appointment on the same website.


To apply for an F1 student visa, you’ll need to do all of the above and also take some additional steps including obtaining admission into a school in the United States, securing funding and obtaining a SEVIS number here: https://www.fmjfee.com/i901fee/index.html.
On the day of your interview, you’ll need to come in with your passport, a passport photo, and your DS-160 and payment confirmation pages.

If you’re applying for an F1 student visa, you’ll also need to bring in your I-20 (provided by the school you’ve been accepted into) and your SEVIS confirmation page. During the interview, you need to be able to talk about your travel or study plans and you need to explain how you will fund your trip. You will also need to explain why you plan to return to Sierra Leone after your trip.

Please do not give or send money to anyone claiming to be able to obtain a visa for you. The steps we’ve just outlined are the only way to obtain one. If someone says they can get a visa for you, please report them by email to [email protected].

Please note that both B1/B2 and F1 visas are for temporary stays in the United States. Once you are finished with your business, vacation, or studies, you must return to Sierra Leone.

To immigrate to the United States permanently, you must have an American family member submit an immigrant visa petition for you or you’ll need to win the diversity visa program and pass your interview. Please send in your questions! We will continue this column twice a month.

30/01/2023

U.S. Embassy Freetown, Sierra Leone
National Civil Registration Authority
Gleaner Newspaper SierraLeone
State House Communitcations

Get your Securitized and Multiple Purpose Biometric ID Cards today, visit any NCRA office across the country.

30/01/2023

Get your Securitized and Multiple Purpose Biometric ID Cards today. Visit any NCRA offices across the country.

28/01/2023

All set for Monday to print the securitized and Multiple - Purpose Biometric Identity cards.

27/01/2023

27/01/2023

U.S. Embassy Freetown, Sierra Leone
Gleaner Newspaper SierraLeone

Get your Securitized and Multipurpose Biometric Identity cards from all NCRA offices in the country.

27/01/2023

U.S. Embassy Freetown, Sierra Leone
IOM Sierra Leone

To our followers and readers...

Be on the lookout as The Watch newspaper will bring to you the “Migration Tips” column to inform and educate you on all travelling procedures to the USA.

We are also going to bring you updates on migration to the USA in both print and electronic media.

For more details on this, kindly stay with us.

migrationtips

27/01/2023

U.S. Embassy Freetown, Sierra Leone
Gleaner Newspaper SierraLeone