Proof of Funds Required for US Visitor Visa

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

I remember my first US visa interview – standing nervously with a folder full of bank statements, wondering if I had enough money to convince the visa officer.

Was it too much? Too little?

The anxiety was real! After helping dozens of family members and friends through this process, I’ve learned exactly what financial documents work best for Indians applying for a US visitor visa.

Whether you’re planning to visit your children studying abroad, attending a wedding, or simply exploring America, showing adequate proof of funds is crucial for your B1/B2 visa approval. In this guide, I’ll share exactly what financial documents you need, how much money is considered “enough,” and the small details that make a big difference in your application.

Quick Overview: Proof of Funds for US Visitor Visa

While there’s no official minimum bank balance requirement, most successful Indian applicants typically show at least ₹6-8 lakhs for a two-week US trip.

The US Embassy wants to see that you can afford your trip expenses (approximately $200-300 per day) and have strong financial ties to India that will ensure your return.

💡 Pro Tip: Consular officers look for stability in your finances rather than just a large balance. A consistent account with regular income and expenses looks more convincing than an account suddenly filled with money just before your application!

What Financial Documents to Submit for US Visitor Visa

Always prepare these essential documents to prove your financial capability:

1. Bank Statements

Your bank statements should:

• Cover the last 6 months (minimum)
• Be stamped and signed by your bank
• Show regular income and reasonable spending patterns
• Have enough balance to cover your entire trip

For a family of three traveling for two weeks, aim to show approximately ₹12-15 lakhs in total funds.

2. Income Tax Returns (ITR)

Include:

• Last 3 years of ITR documents
• Form 16 from your employer
• ITR acknowledgment receipts
• Any additional tax-related documents that show consistent income

3. Property and Asset Documents

Supporting documents can strengthen your application:

• Fixed deposit certificates
• Property ownership papers
• Investment portfolios (stocks, mutual funds)
• Provident fund statements
• Insurance policies with surrender value

4. Salary Slips and Employment Letter

If employed, include:

• Last 6 months’ salary slips
• Employment verification letter stating:
  • Your position and salary
  • Duration of employment
  • Approved leave for your US trip
  • Your expected return date to work

5. Business Proof (for Business Owners)

If you own a business:

• Business registration certificates
• GST registration
• Business bank account statements
• Client contracts or major purchase orders

How Much Money is Required for US Visitor Visa from India?

There’s no fixed minimum amount, but here’s a realistic breakdown of what visa officers consider:

These amounts should cover:

• Round-trip airfare (approximately ₹80,000-1,20,000 per person)
• Accommodation (₹10,000-15,000 per night for a family)
• Local transportation (₹5,000-7,000 per day)
• Food and sightseeing (₹7,000-10,000 per day)
• Travel insurance (₹5,000-10,000 per person)
• Emergency funds (₹2-3 lakhs)

Presenting Your Financial Documents at the Interview

How you present your documents matters almost as much as what they contain:

1. Organize professionally – Use a folder with labeled sections
2. Prepare a trip budget – Create a simple one-page estimate of all expenses
3. Don’t overwhelm – Have documents ready but only present what’s asked for
4. Be honest – Never exaggerate your financial situation
5. Know your numbers – Be prepared to explain your financial situation confidently

Common Mistakes Indians Make With Proof of Funds

Avoid these common errors that often lead to visa rejections:

1. Sudden large deposits – Depositing large sums just before applying looks suspicious
2. Borrowed funds – Using someone else’s money temporarily in your account
3. Only showing high balance – Officers look for consistent income, not just a large sum
4. Submitting unorganized documents – Messy or incomplete financial records create doubt
5. Inconsistency between funds and trip plan – Your finances should match your proposed itinerary

I’ve seen many applications rejected because someone borrowed money just to show a high balance, only to have the visa officer question where the funds came from. Always be transparent about your actual financial situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a minimum bank balance required for US visitor visa?

No, the US Embassy doesn’t specify a minimum amount. However, you should have enough funds to cover all your trip expenses (approximately $200-300 per day) plus emergency money. For a two-week trip, ₹6-8 lakhs is generally considered adequate for a single person.

Can I show fixed deposits as proof of funds?

Yes! Fixed deposits are excellent proof of financial stability. Make sure to provide FD certificates with clear maturity dates and amounts. FDs actually demonstrate better financial planning than just cash in a savings account.

What if I’m being sponsored by a US resident?

If someone in the US is sponsoring your trip, you’ll need:

• Form I-134 (Affidavit of Support) from your sponsor
• Your sponsor’s financial documents (bank statements, tax returns)
• A letter explaining your relationship with the sponsor
• Your own financial documents still matter, so don’t skip them

How far back should my bank statements go?

Provide bank statements for at least the last 6 months, though 1 year is better. This shows the visa officer your financial patterns and stability over time.

Can retired persons show pension as proof of funds?

Absolutely! Pension statements, retirement fund documents, and regular pension deposits in your bank account are excellent proof of stable income for retirees. Also include any investment income sources.

Special Considerations for Different Traveler Types

For Parents Visiting Children in the US

If you’re visiting your children studying or working in the US:

• Include your child’s status documents (visa, I-20, etc.)
• Show your own retirement benefits and savings
• A letter of invitation from your child helps
• Property ownership documents in India strengthen your return ties

For Business Visitors (B1 Visa)

If traveling for business purposes:

• Include a detailed letter from your company explaining the business purpose
• Business registration and financial statements
• Invitation letter from the US company
• Previous international business travel history if applicable

For First-Time International Travelers

If this is your first international trip:

• Focus on showing strong ties to India (property, family, business)
• Have at least 1 year of consistent bank statements
• Include all assets and investments
• A detailed return travel plan is crucial

💡 Pro Tip: If a family member is sponsoring your trip, don’t just rely on their documents. Always show your own financial stability as well, as the visa officer needs to see YOUR ties to India, not just your sponsor’s ability to fund the trip.

What If You Don’t Have Enough Funds?

If your financial situation isn’t strong enough:

1. Consider postponing your trip to build up more savings
2. Reduce your planned stay duration to lower the required funds
3. Focus on demonstrating strong ties to India in other ways (job, property, family)
4. If being sponsored, ensure your sponsor provides comprehensive documentation

Remember, a shorter trip with adequate funds is better than a longer trip with questionable financing.

Summary

• There’s no fixed minimum bank balance, but aim for ₹6-8 lakhs for a two-week trip
• Submit 6 months of bank statements showing consistent income and spending
• Include supporting documents like ITR, property papers, and employment verification
• Avoid sudden large deposits just before your visa application
• Present a realistic travel budget aligned with your financial situation
• Both your travel funds AND your ties to India matter to visa officers

Applying for a US visitor visa might seem intimidating, but with proper financial documentation, the process becomes much smoother.

Remember that consular officers are mainly checking if you can afford your trip AND if you have reasons to return to India.

With the right preparation, you’ll be well on your way to getting that visa stamp!

Safe travels and enjoy your American adventure! ✈️