To visit the United States temporarily for tourism or business, most travelers need to apply for a B-1 (business) or B-2 (tourism) visitor visa unless they are eligible for the Visa Waiver Program. Below are the general requirements and steps for obtaining a U.S. visit visa.[1]
- Check if your country participates in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). If eligible, apply for travel authorization with ESTA instead of a visa.[1]
- If not eligible for VWP, you must apply for a visitor visa (B-1/B-2) through the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.[1]
- Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the U.S. (with exceptions for certain countries).[2]
- Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160) and submit it online. Print the confirmation page for the interview.[2][3]
- Prepare required documents:
- Valid passport
- DS-160 confirmation page
- Recent 2×2 inch color photo (white background, not older than 6 months)
- Receipt for payment of the non-refundable application fee
- Supporting documents that may include:
- Proof of funds to cover your trip
- Evidence of ties to your home country (job, property, family)
- Purpose of your trip and your intention to return home after visiting[2][3]
- Schedule a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Interviews are usually required for applicants aged 14-79 years.[5]
- Attend your interview. Digital fingerprint scans are taken at this time.[3] Bring all required documents; additional documents may be requested by the consular officer.[3]
- A new “visa integrity fee” of $250 applies to most B-1/B-2 applicants starting in fiscal year 2025, in addition to the standard application fee.[3]
- Upon arrival in the U.S., bring your passport and visa. You may be asked to present proof of your itinerary and financial means. At the port of entry, U.S. officials will issue a Form I-94, recording your entry and departure.[1]
- Travel insurance is not mandatory for the U.S. tourist visa but is highly recommended.[6]
- If you wish to renew your visitor visa, the process is the same as the initial application.[1]
References
- [1] How to apply for or renew a U.S. tourist visa – USA.gov
- [2] How to Apply for Tourism & Visitor Visas – U.S. Embassy
- [3] B-1 and B-2 Tourist Visas, Explained – Boundless
- [5] Visitor Visa – Travel – U.S. Department of State
- [6] US Tourist Visa – B-1 & B-2 Process and Requirements for Indians – Y-Axis
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