A little confused about what items I can bring with me to the interview

[Aussie_America1 0]

I have an interview at the US Consulate in Sydney and I'm trying to find out if I can bring my phone. I know that no devices whatsoever are allowed in the actual visa area, but are there lockers or storage for small items like this? I've found conflicting information so far. Just wanting to know if I can bring my phone with me thats all

[millefleur 5,035]

Yes, the security guards will take all your electronics (including USB sticks, etc) and keep them for you at the door in a little cubby hole. They'll give you a number token so you can pick it up on your way out.

I've been in various US consulates/embassies in various countries and this is always how it worked. Some cubbies will be bigger than others, but they tend to be on the small side so I'd advise against bringing a laptop or anything huge. A phone won't be a problem, but it'll have to be switched off during your time there as well. You won't be able to call/contact anyone during your time inside the embassy/consulate.

Edited October 23, 2016 by millefleur

[Aussie_America1 0]

Thanks heaps millefleur, thats really helpful to me. I assumed I couldn't contact anyone during my time there, but I just wanted to make sure I didn't have to try and find a place in the city to store it away and hope a thief didn't find it haha.

Thanks again :-)

[millefleur 5,035]

Thanks heaps millefleur, thats really helpful to me. I assumed I couldn't contact anyone during my time there, but I just wanted to make sure I didn't have to try and find a place in the city to store it away and hope a thief didn't find it haha.

Thanks again :-)

No problem. It is annoying having to wait inside with old magazines as the only form of entertainment, so bring a book (or something else non-electronic) to entertain yourself in case it ends up taking a while!