How to apply for US Tourist Visa from India

Every year, thousands of Indian travelers apply for a B-1/B-2 Tourist Visa to explore the United States. This visa allows for short visits, whether for leisure, business, or medical purposes. In this blog, we'll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a US Tourist Visa as an Indian citizen and what you need to prepare to enhance your chances of approval.

1. Starting the Application Process:

Begin your journey by checking your eligibility for a US tourist visa

2. DS-160 Visa Application Form:

Fill out the DS-160 Visa application form with meticulous attention to detail, answering every question accurately. Electronically sign the application form and upload a passport-size photo.

3. Visa Processing Fee:

You can pay the visa processing fee within 48 hours of submitting the form. Various payment methods, including internet banking, are available.

4. DS-160 Confirmation Page:

After submitting the form, ensure you keep a print of the DS-160 confirmation page with the barcode. This document is essential throughout the visa application process.

5. Schedule Interviews:

Book appointments for 2 interviews immediately after submitting your visa application.

6. First Interview:

The first interview is a brief process lasting no more than 10 minutes, primarily to collect your fingerprints and photograph.

7. Second Interview:

The second interview is more critical. Leave your phones, electronic gadgets, and bags outside. You can enter with your forms and documents. During this interview, you'll discuss your funding for the trip, the trip's duration, and your purpose for visiting the USA. The result is typically given on the spot.

Documents You Need:

• Original valid passport with a minimum 6-month validity beyond your expected US arrival date.
• Passport-size photograph adhering to specific requirements.
• DS-160 Visa application form with the Visa Application Centre (VAC) stamp on the confirmation page.
• Proof of visa fee payment.
• Valid identity proof.
• Evidence of sufficient funds.
• Proof of strong ties in India.
• Purpose of your trip and intent to return.
• Detailed itinerary.
• Bank statements and passbook copies.
• Last year's tax payment, PAN card, Aadhaar card, and TAX ID.
• Business card (if applicable).
• Invitation letters from relatives in the USA.
• Letter of employment (if employed).
• NOC (No Objection Certificate) for government employees.
• Proof of business ownership (for businesspersons).

Visa Application Fee:

As of now, the visa application fee for Indian applicants is approximately $185 payable through various methods, including NEFT, IMPS, or in cash at Axis or Citibank branches. Please note that the fee is subject to change based on foreign exchange rates and is non-refundable.

Eligibility Criteria:

To be eligible for a US Tourist Visa, you must:

• Be an Indian citizen.
• Hold a valid passport.
• Possess valid identification documents such as PAN card, Aadhaar card, and Voter ID card.
• Preferably have a clean criminal background.

Photograph Specifications:

Your visa photograph should adhere to the following specifications:

• Be no more than 6 months old.
• In color.
• Taken in front of a white or off-white background.
• Display your entire face with a neutral expression.
• The head should measure between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches.
• No uniforms (except religious attire), headphones, or hats hide the hairline.
• Remove eyeglasses unless recent ocular surgery necessitates wearing them (with a doctor's statement).
• Hearing aids can be worn in the photograph.

In conclusion, the US Tourist Visa application process is meticulous, but with the right documents, proper preparation, and attention to detail, you can increase your chances of success.