How to Get US Visa

This article was last updated and fact checked on July 14, 2025 by Mani Karthik.

So, you’re finally ready to take that big step toward America?

Maybe it’s for that dream job, your master’s degree, or just to explore the land of opportunities.

But looking at the US visa process feels like staring at a mountain, right?

Don’t worry. Thousands of Indians get US visas every year. And with the right approach, you can too.

Let’s break down exactly how to get your US visa without the stress and confusion.

Understanding US Visa Types: Which One Do You Need?

The US offers different visas for different purposes.

Here’s what matters for most Indians:

(Source: US Department of State)

The B1/B2 tourist visa is what most first-time applicants go for.

It’s also the easiest to understand and apply for.

Step-by-Step Process: How to Apply

Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type

Ask yourself: Why am I going to the US?

• Tourism, family visit, or medical treatment? → B1/B2
• Study at university? → F1
• Job with US company? → H1B (employer must file)
• Business meetings? → B1

Step 2: Fill Out Form DS-160

This is your online application form.

Go to the official DS-160 website.

You’ll need:

• Passport details
• Travel plans
• Work/education history
• Family information

💡Tip: Save your application frequently. The form times out after 20 minutes of inactivity.

Takes about 45-60 minutes to complete.

Double-check everything before submitting.

Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee

Current fees for Indians in 2025:

• Most visas: $185 (approximately ₹16,100)
• Work visas (H, L): $205 (approximately ₹17,850)

(Source: US Embassy India)

Exchange rate: As of January 2025, the consular rate is 87 rupees to 1 USD.

You can pay online through:

• Net banking (NEFT)
• Debit/credit cards
• UPI

Fee is non-refundable. Even if your visa gets rejected.

Fee stays valid for 1 year from payment date.

Step 4: Schedule Your Interview

This is where it gets tricky.

New rule from January 1, 2025: You can reschedule only once for free. Second reschedule? You pay the fee again.

(Source: US Embassy India)

Wait times in major cities:

• Mumbai: 12-18 months
• Delhi: 8-12 months
• Chennai: 10-15 months
• Hyderabad: 6-10 months
• Kolkata: 8-12 months

Plan well in advance.

💡Tip: Consider smaller cities like Hyderabad if you’re flexible. Wait times are often shorter.

Step 5: Gather Required Documents

Essential documents for everyone:

• Valid passport (6+ months validity)
• DS-160 confirmation page
• Visa fee payment receipt
• Photo (if DS-160 upload failed)

Additional documents by visa type:

For B1/B2 (Tourist/Business):

• Bank statements (last 6 months)
• Employment letter
• ITR for last 2-3 years
• Travel itinerary
• Hotel bookings
• Return flight tickets

For F1 (Student):

• I-20 form from US school
• SEVIS fee receipt ($350)
• Academic transcripts
• Standardized test scores (TOEFL, GRE, etc.)
• Financial documents

For H1B (Work):

• I-797 approval notice
• Job offer letter
• Educational credentials
• Experience letters

Step 6: Attend the Interview

Interview tips:

• Arrive 15 minutes early
• Dress formally but comfortably
• Be honest and direct
• Show strong ties to India (job, property, family)

Common questions:

• “Why do you want to visit the US?”
• “How long will you stay?”
• “What’s your plan after returning?”
• “Who’s funding your trip?”

💡Tip: Practice answering in English. Keep responses short and clear.

The interview usually lasts 2-5 minutes.

Don’t bring unnecessary documents. Officers rarely look at everything.

Current Processing Times and Changes

After interview approval:

• Passport returned in 5-7 business days
• No updates during processing (normal)

Important 2025 changes:

• B1/B2 interview waivers mostly moved to New Delhi
• New rescheduling policy (pay twice if you reschedule twice)
• Consular exchange rate: 87 INR = 1 USD

(Source: US Embassy India)

Visa Approval Rates for Indians

Recent statistics:

• B1/B2 (Tourist): ~72% approval rate
• F1 (Student): ~78% approval rate
• H1B (Work): ~85% approval rate

(Source: US Department of State, 2024 data)

Your chances improve with:

• Strong financial proof
• Clear travel purpose
• Solid ties to India
• Complete documentation

Common Rejection Reasons

Top reasons visas get denied:

1. Insufficient funds – Can’t prove you can afford the trip
2. Weak home ties – No strong reason to return to India
3. Unclear purpose – Vague travel plans
4. Previous violations – Overstayed in any country before
5. Incomplete documents – Missing required paperwork

💡Tip: If rejected, wait 3-6 months before reapplying. Use the time to strengthen your application.

Costs Beyond the Visa Fee

Total estimated costs:

• Visa fee: ₹16,100
• Travel to embassy: ₹2,000 – ₹15,000
• Document preparation: ₹1,000 – ₹5,000
• Photos, prints: ₹500
• Total: ₹19,600 – ₹36,600

Additional costs for students:

• SEVIS fee: $350 (₹30,450)
• Medical exam: ₹5,000 – ₹10,000

Special Cases and Exemptions

Who doesn’t need a US visa:

• US citizens and green card holders
• Some diplomatic passport holders

Interview waiver eligibility:

• Renewing same visa type
• Previous US visa holder
• Age 13 and under, or 80 and above

(Source: US Embassy India)

Most first-time applicants need an interview.

After Getting Your Visa

Important points:

• Visa validity ≠ allowed stay duration
• Entry decision made by CBP officer at US airport
• Multiple entries allowed (for 10-year B1/B2)
• Maximum stay: Usually 6 months per visit

At US entry:

• Carry all original documents
• Be prepared to explain your visit again
• Have return ticket ready

💡Tip: Don’t overstay. Even one day can affect future applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I work on a B1/B2 visa?
A: No. Tourist visas don’t allow employment.

Q: How early can I apply?
A: Up to 120 days before intended travel date.

Q: What if my passport expires soon?
A: Renew it first. Need 6+ months validity.

Q: Can I extend my stay in the US?
A: Possible but complicated. Better to plan properly.

Getting Help: When to Use Agents

You probably don’t need an agent if:

• You’re comfortable with English
• Have straightforward case
• Can follow instructions carefully

Consider professional help if:

• Previous visa rejection
• Complex employment situation
• Criminal background issues
• Multiple country travel history

Agents typically charge ₹15,000 – ₹50,000.

Next Steps: Start Your Application

Ready to begin your US visa journey?

Here’s your immediate action plan:

1. Decide your visa type – Use the table above
2. Gather documents – Start with financial proof
3. Fill DS-160 form – Set aside 2 hours
4. Pay fee and schedule – Book interview ASAP
5. Prepare for interview – Practice common questions

Remember: thousands of Indians get US visas every year.

With proper preparation and honest intentions, you can be one of them.

The process might seem overwhelming now, but take it one step at a time.

Your American dream is closer than you think.