How to Apply for US Visit Visa

This article was last updated and fact checked on April 28, 2025 by Mani Karthik.

The first time I applied for a US visitor visa, I was so nervous that I forgot basic details about my own travel plans during the interview!

After multiple successful applications for myself and helping dozens of family members through the process, I’ve learned exactly what works and what doesn’t when applying for a US visit visa from India.

Whether you’re planning to visit family, explore as a tourist, or attend a short business trip, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire US B1/B2 visa application process – from filling out forms to acing your interview.

I’ll share insider tips that have helped numerous Indians secure their US visitor visas successfully.

Quick Overview: US Visit Visa Application Process

To apply for a US visit visa (B1/B2) from India, you need to complete the DS-160 form online, pay the application fee (currently ₹13,160), schedule an interview at a US consulate, gather supporting documents showing ties to India, and attend the visa interview.

The entire process takes approximately 2-3 months due to interview wait times. Your application should demonstrate that you plan to return to India after your temporary stay.

💡 Pro Tip: Start your application process at least 3-4 months before your intended travel date. Current interview wait times at Indian consulates range from 60-120 days, and rushing last-minute can lead to mistakes that might result in visa denial.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for US Visit Visa

Step 1: Determine the Right Visa Type

For most Indian visitors to the USA, the B1/B2 visa is appropriate:

• B1 Visa: For business activities (meetings, conferences, negotiations)
• B2 Visa: For tourism, visiting family/friends, medical treatment
• B1/B2 Visa: Combination visa covering both purposes

Most applicants receive the combined B1/B2 visa valid for 10 years with multiple entries.

Step 2: Complete the DS-160 Form

The DS-160 is your online nonimmigrant visa application:

1. Visit the Consular Electronic Application Center
2. Select the location where you’ll apply (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, etc.)
3. Note your application ID for future reference
4. Fill out all sections accurately, including:
   • Personal information
   • Travel plans
   • Work history
   • Security questions
   • Family information
   • Previous US travel (if any)
5. Upload a digital photo meeting requirements:
   • 2×2 inches (51×51 mm)
   • Taken within the last 6 months
   • White background
   • Neutral expression
6. Review all information carefully before submission
7. Print the confirmation page with barcode

Time required: 1-2 hours if you have all information ready

Step 3: Pay the Visa Application Fee

The current fee structure for Indian applicants:

• B1/B2 visa fee: ₹13,160 (approximately $160)

To pay:

1. Create an account on ustraveldocs.com/in
2. Select “Schedule Appointment”
3. Choose visa type (B1/B2)
4. Pay via NEFT, mobile banking, or at approved banks
5. Keep the receipt safe – you’ll need the payment confirmation number

Step 4: Schedule Your Visa Interview

Using the same ustraveldocs.com account:

1. Log in and select “Schedule Appointment”
2. Enter your DS-160 confirmation number
3. Enter your fee payment receipt number
4. Select your preferred consulate (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, or Kolkata)
5. Choose from available interview dates
6. Receive and print your interview confirmation letter

Current wait times: As of April 2025, wait times range from 60-120 days depending on the consulate location. Chennai and Hyderabad often have shorter wait times than Mumbai or Delhi.

Step 5: Gather Supporting Documents

Prepare a well-organized file with these documents:

Essential Documents:

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay)
• DS-160 confirmation page
• Interview appointment letter
• One 2×2 inch photograph (in case digital photo fails)
• Fee payment receipt

Financial Proof:

• Bank statements (last 6 months)
• Fixed deposits or investments
• Income tax returns (last 3 years)
• Salary slips (if employed)
• Property documents (if applicable)

Ties to India:

• Employment letter stating approved leave and return date
• Business ownership papers (if applicable)
• Property ownership documents
• Family responsibilities documentation

Travel Information:

• Detailed travel itinerary
• Hotel reservations (if available)
• Flight bookings (if available)
• Letter of invitation (if visiting someone)
• Tour package details (if applicable)

Step 6: Prepare for the Interview

The interview is the most critical part of the application:

1. Practice common questions:
   • Purpose of your visit?
   • How long will you stay in the US?
   • Who are you visiting?
   • How will you fund your trip?
   • What ties do you have to India?
2. Prepare concise answers that demonstrate:
   • Clear purpose for your visit
   • Temporary nature of your trip
   • Strong ties to India that ensure your return
   • Financial ability to support yourself
3. Dress professionally but comfortably
4. Organize your documents in a logical order for easy access

Step 7: Attend Your Visa Interview

On interview day:

1. Arrive 15-30 minutes early
2. Bring only necessary items (security restrictions apply)
3. Go through security screening
4. Submit biometrics (fingerprints)
5. Wait for your interview turn
6. Answer questions honestly and confidently
7. Present documents only when requested
8. Be brief and specific in your responses

Interviews typically last 2-5 minutes. The officer will inform you whether your visa is approved, needs administrative processing, or is denied.

Step 8: Track and Receive Your Passport

If approved:

1. Your passport will be processed for visa stamping
2. Track status through the ustraveldocs.com website
3. Receive passport via courier (typically 3-5 business days after approval)

Documents That Strengthen Your Application

Some documents significantly increase approval chances:

Common Reasons for US Visa Rejection

Understanding potential pitfalls helps you avoid them:

1. Insufficient ties to India – Not demonstrating strong reasons to return
2. Financial concerns – Inadequate funds for intended stay
3. Unclear travel purpose – Vague or inconsistent travel plans
4. Application errors – Mistakes or misrepresentations on DS-160
5. Previous immigration violations – Overstays or visa condition violations
6. Inadequate preparation – Appearing uninformed during the interview

I once helped my cousin strengthen his application after a rejection.

His first application showed only his job as a tie to India, but for his second (successful) application, we included his property documents, family responsibilities, and a more detailed travel itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the US visa application process take?

From starting the DS-160 to receiving your passport with the visa typically takes 2-3 months. The actual processing time after your interview is usually 3-5 business days if approved without additional administrative processing.

What is the success rate for Indian B1/B2 visa applicants?

While official statistics aren’t published, approximately 60-70% of Indian B1/B2 applicants receive approvals. Proper documentation and interview preparation significantly increase your chances.

Can I apply for a US visa with a new passport?

Yes, but if you have an old passport with travel history, bring it to your interview. Previous travel history, especially to the US or other developed countries, can strengthen your application.

What if I don’t have travel plans finalized yet?

You can apply without confirmed flights, but you should have a clear itinerary and approximate dates. Having tentative hotel bookings or an invitation letter strengthens your application.

How much bank balance should I show for a US visitor visa?

There’s no fixed amount, but you should demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your entire trip. For a 2-week trip, showing approximately ₹4-6 lakhs in liquid assets is generally considered adequate.

Special Considerations for Different Travelers

For First-Time International Travelers

If this is your first international trip:

• Focus heavily on demonstrating ties to India
• Consider visiting other countries first to build travel history
• Bring extremely thorough documentation of assets and employment
• Be prepared for more detailed questioning

For Business Visitors (B1)

Additional documents to include:

• Letter from your Indian employer explaining the purpose
• Invitation from the US company/conference
• Meeting agenda or conference registration
• Business card and company profile

For Those Visiting Family

Documents that help:

• Invitation letter from your US-based relative
• Proof of their legal status (green card, visa, etc.)
• Photos establishing your relationship
• Evidence you’ve maintained separate households

For Senior Citizens

Emphasize these aspects:

• Pension documents or retirement benefits
• Property ownership and family ties
• Previous travel history
• Medical insurance for US travel
• Return ticket information

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re visiting family in the US, include both an invitation letter from them AND strong evidence of your own ties to India. Many applicants focus only on their US connection and don’t adequately demonstrate why they’ll return to India.

What to Do If Your Visa Is Denied

If you receive a rejection:

1. Read the refusal letter carefully to understand the specific reason
2. Address the identified weakness in your application
3. Gather additional supporting documents
4. Wait 3-6 months before reapplying (unless circumstances change significantly)
5. Consider consulting with an immigration advisor

Remember: Each application is evaluated independently, so a previous rejection doesn’t automatically mean future rejections if you address the concerns.

Summary

• Start the application process 3-4 months before planned travel
• Complete the DS-160 form accurately and thoroughly
• Pay the application fee (₹13,160) and schedule your interview
• Gather comprehensive documentation showing ties to India and financial stability
• Prepare concise, honest answers for your interview
• Dress professionally and arrive early on interview day
• Present your case clearly and confidently
• Track your passport after approval

Applying for a US visitor visa might seem daunting, but with proper preparation and documentation, most legitimate Indian travelers receive approvals.

The key is demonstrating that you have strong reasons to return to India after your temporary US visit.

By following this guide and organizing your application thoroughly, you’ll maximize your chances of success and soon be on your way to experiencing the United States! Safe travels! ✈️

Further Reading

• How to Prepare for US Visa Interview: Tips for Indians
• Proof of Funds Required for US Visitor Visa
• How to Check Your US Visa Status Online