USA Tourist Visa For Indian (B1/B2)

Comprehensive Guide to USA Tourist Visa (B1/B2)

Thinking of visiting the beautiful country of USA? It’s absolutely a great place to give a visit. So without further delay, let’s get your tourist visa guidelines sorted!

Note: These guidelines are subject to change, and it is advised to contact the official authorities too!

The USA Tourist Visa, or B1/B2 Visa, is for those wanting to go for tourism, business meetings, or medical purposes. It usually allows stays of up to 180 days per visit, and multiple entries during the visa’s validity (often 10 years). Even though the visa duration is 10 years, your stay is seeded by the customs officer at the port of entry.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Complete the DS-160 Form

Visit the CEAC Website and fill out the DS-160 form.
Prepare detailed personal information, including travel history, work, and purpose of visit.
Upload a digital photo meeting U.S. visa photo requirements.
Save and print the DS-160 confirmation page with the barcode for the interview.

2. Pay the Visa Fee

The application fee for a B1/B2 Visa is $185.
Payment can be made online, through bank transfer, or at a designated bank in your country.
Retain the payment receipt, as it is required for the appointment scheduling process.

3. Schedule Appointments

Book two appointments:
- Biometrics Appointment: At the Visa Application Center (VAC) to provide fingerprints and photos.
- Visa Interview Appointment: At the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country.
Scheduling is done through the U.S. Travel Docs portal for your region.

4. Prepare Required Documents

Mandatory documents include:

Current and all previous passports.
DS-160 confirmation page and visa fee receipt.
Visa interview appointment letter.
Recent passport-sized photograph.
Supporting documents, such as:
- Proof of finances (bank statements, sponsorship letters).
- Employment verification (letters from employer, leave approval).
- Property ownership or family ties to prove that you are going to return.

5. Attend the Biometrics Appointment

Visit the VAC to give fingerprints and take a photo.
Bring your passport, appointment confirmation, and DS-160 barcode.

6. Attend the Visa Interview

On the interview day, appear at the consulate with all the documents (you want to make a good impression, right?).
Be prepared to explain your travel purpose and ties to your home country.
Visa results are often provided immediately; approved passports are returned with the visa stamp in 3–10 business days.

Key Fees and Validity

Type	Fee (USD)	Validity
B1/B2 Visa	185	Typically 10 years
Biometrics	Included	N/A

Additional Tips

Apply Early: Begin the process at least 3 months before your planned travel date to account for processing times.
Proof of Intent: Clearly show ties to your home country to assure consular officials you will be “back to pavilion” after your visit.
No Final Plans: Avoid purchasing tickets or making non-refundable arrangements until your visa is approved.

For more information, visit the U.S. State Department Visa Page.