US tourist visa for Indians: How to apply, fee and requirements

That dream trip to the US is so close you can almost feel it. But before you set off, there's just one final step—the US tourist visa. We know, it sounds like a lot, but think of it as the official stamp that unlocks all those unforgettable moments. Ready to find out how easy this can be? Let’s simplify the process together from the scratch.

What is a USA tourist visa (B-2 visa)?

The USA tourist visa, also referred to as the B-2 visa, is a non-immigrant visa that allows individuals to enter the United States temporarily for tourism, leisure, medical treatment, or visiting relatives and friends. It’s crucial to note that the B-2 visa does not permit employment or long-term residency in the US. If you’re planning to visit for business-related reasons, the B-1 visa may be more appropriate.

Eligibility criteria for a US tourist visa for Indians

Before applying, make sure you meet the following eligibility criteria for a B-2 tourist visa:

• Purpose of travel: You must demonstrate that your visit is for tourism, visiting family or friends, medical treatment, or other permissible activities under a B-2 visa.

• Temporary stay: You must show that you plan to stay in the US temporarily and will return to India once your visit is complete.

• Financial means: You must prove that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in the US.

• Ties to India: To strengthen your application, you must show strong ties to India, such as a job, family, or property, indicating that you’ll return after your visit.

Step-by-step guide to applying for a USA tourist visa

Here's the step-by-step guide to applying for a USA tourist visa:

Complete the DS-160 form

The first step in the application process is completing the DS-160 form, which is available on the official US Department of State website. This form requires detailed information about your background, travel plans, employment, and other personal details.

Make sure all the information you provide is accurate and matches your supporting documents.

Once the form is complete, you’ll receive a DS-160 confirmation number, which will be necessary for booking your visa appointment.

Pay the visa application fee

After completing the DS-160 form, you’ll need to pay the visa application fee. For a B-2 tourist visa, the fee is USD 185, which must be paid in local currency (Indian Rupees). You can pay this fee online via NEFT, mobile payment, or through Axis/Citibank branches.

Keep your payment receipt safe, as you’ll need it to schedule your visa interview.

Schedule a visa appointment

Once the visa fee is paid, you can schedule two appointments:

Biometrics appointment: This is held at a visa application centre (VAC) where your fingerprints and photograph will be taken.

Visa interview: The second appointment is the visa interview at the US Embassy or Consulate.

Make sure to schedule your biometrics appointment first and then your visa interview. Appointments are available at US consulates in Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and the US Embassy in New Delhi.

Attend the biometrics appointment

On the day of your biometrics appointment, carry your passport, DS-160 confirmation page, and visa appointment confirmation. The process involves submitting your fingerprints and photograph. This step is mandatory for all visa applicants.

Attend the visa interview

The visa interview is a critical part of the process, and your application’s approval will depend heavily on it. The interview will be conducted by a consular officer, who will ask you questions regarding your travel plans, financial situation, ties to India, and other relevant details.

Documents required for US visa interview

• Passport (valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the US)

• DS-160 confirmation page

• Visa appointment confirmation

• Visa fee payment receipt

• Photograph (as per US visa photo requirements)

• Travel itinerary (if available)

• Bank statements and other financial documents showing your ability to support your trip

• Employment proof or leave approval letter from your employer

• Documents proving ties to India, such as property documents or family certificates

During the interview, it’s essential to remain calm, confident, and honest. The consular officer may ask you about your reasons for visiting, your travel itinerary, and your plans to return to India after your visit. The goal is to prove that you have no intention of overstaying your visa.

USA tourist visa processing time

The overall processing time for a USA tourist visa includes both pre and post-interview steps:

1. Pre-interview: This involves completing the DS-160 form, paying the visa fee, and scheduling the biometrics and visa interview appointments. Depending on availability, scheduling these appointments can take between 1 to 4 weeks.

2. Post-interview: After your visa interview, the consular officer will inform you whether your visa has been approved. Once approved, the typical visa processing time is between 7 to 10 business days, during which your passport will be stamped and sent back to you.

In total, from starting the application process to receiving your visa, the time frame could vary between 2 to 6 weeks depending on appointment availability and individual circumstances. It is always recommended to apply well in advance of your intended travel date to account for any unexpected delays.

US tourist visa validity and duration of stay

A USA tourist visa is typically issued for 10 years, but the consular officer may grant a visa with a shorter validity period depending on individual circumstances. However, the duration of your stay in the US will be determined by the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry. In most cases, visitors are allowed to stay in the US for up to six months on each visit.

If you wish to extend your stay beyond the authorised period, you’ll need to apply for an extension with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before your authorised stay expires.

Common reasons for US tourist visa rejection

While the USA tourist visa application process is straightforward, there are common reasons why some applicants may be rejected:

1. Insufficient ties to India: If you cannot demonstrate strong reasons to return to India, such as employment, family, or property, your visa may be rejected.

2. Inconsistent or incomplete information: Providing inaccurate or incomplete information on your DS-160 form or during your interview can lead to rejection.

3. Lack of financial proof: Failure to show sufficient funds to cover your expenses in the US can result in a visa denial.

4. Previous visa violations: If you have violated visa terms during previous visits to the US or other countries, this could affect your chances of approval.

Tips for a successful US tourist visa application

• Be organised: Ensure all your documents are in order and double-check your DS-160 form for accuracy before submitting.

• Be honest: Always provide truthful answers during the interview and on your visa application. Dishonesty can lead to visa rejection or future visa bans.

• Prove your ties to India: Clearly demonstrate that you have compelling reasons to return to India, such as employment, family, or property.

• Prepare for the interview: Practise answering potential interview questions confidently and succinctly. Be clear about your travel plans and the purpose of your visit.

US tourist visa fee for Indians

The visa fee for a US tourist visa (B-2 visa) for Indian applicants is USD 185, which must be paid in Indian Rupees (INR). The conversion rate fluctuates, but as of recent figures, this amounts to approximately INR 15,500 to INR 15,800, depending on the current exchange rate at the time of payment. This fee is non-refundable and can be paid through NEFT, mobile payment, or at Axis Bank or Citibank branches.

Conclusion

Getting your USA tourist visa is more than just ticking boxes, it’s the key that unlocks new experiences and connections. Each form and interview bring you closer to making those long-awaited plans a reality. Stay organised, follow the steps, and soon you’ll be holding that visa, ready for your journey to begin. What lies ahead is yours to embrace.