Here you can find important points for applying for a US Visitor Visa from India. First, choose the right visa type—B-1 for business or B-2 for tourism. Fill out the DS-160 form online and pay the $185 fee. Schedule two appointments: one for biometrics and one for the visa interview. Carry your passport, confirmation page, and supporting documents. Be honest during the interview and show strong ties to India. If approved, the visa may be valid for up to 10 years with a stay of up to six months per visit.
US Visitor Visa Overview:
A US Visitor Visa allows Indian citizens to travel to the United States for a short stay. This visa is used for tourism, family visits, or medical reasons. It is a non-immigrant visa. You cannot work or study on this visa.
US Visitor Visa from India:
There are two main types of visitor visas:
| Visa Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| B-1 | Business-related travel |
| B-2 | Tourism, visiting family, medical care |
| B-1/B-2 | Combination of business and tourism |
Most Indian tourists apply for B-2 or B-1/B-2.
Essential Documents for US Visitor Visa Application:
You will need the following documents:
- Valid Indian passport (valid for at least 6 months after your planned stay)
- DS-160 confirmation page
- Visa appointment confirmation
- Visa application fee receipt
- Passport-size photograph (as per US guidelines)
- Travel itinerary (if you have one)
- Proof of funds (bank statements, income tax returns)
- Employment letter or business proof
- Invitation letter (if visiting family/friends)
- Property, job, or family ties to return to India
Benefits of a US Visitor Visa:
How to Apply for a US Tourist Visa from India: Step-by-Step
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1️⃣ | Fill the DS-160 Form online at https://ceac.state.gov |
| 2️⃣ | Pay the visa application fee (USD 185 as of 2025) |
| 3️⃣ | Create a profile on the US Visa website: https://www.ustraveldocs.com/in |
| 4️⃣ | Book two appointments: a) OFC appointment for fingerprints and photo b) Visa interview at the US Embassy/Consulate |
| 5️⃣ | Attend the OFC (VAC) appointment with your passport and DS-160 confirmation |
| 6️⃣ | Attend your visa interview and answer questions about your travel plans |
| 7️⃣ | Wait for visa processing (normally 3–7 working days) |
| 8️⃣ | Collect your passport or get it delivered with the visa stamped inside |
US Visa Cost for Indian Applicants:
| Visa Type | Cost (USD) | Approx. INR (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| B-1/B-2 | $185 | ₹15,400–₹15,800 (may vary with forex rates) |
Note: No extra cost for interview or biometric.
Validity of Different Types of US Tourist Visas for Indians:
| Visa Type | Maximum Stay per Visit | Total Validity |
|---|---|---|
| B-2 | 6 months | 1 year to 10 years (depending on case) |
| B-1 | 6 months | 1 year to 10 years |
| B-1/B-2 | 6 months | Usually 10 years for Indian citizens |
You cannot stay in the US for more than 6 months per visit.
DS-160 Form (Non-Immigrant Visa Application)
- Go to https://ceac.state.gov
- Choose location as India – New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, or Kolkata
- Fill details about your name, passport, travel purpose, background, etc.
- Upload a digital photo (as per US guidelines)
- Save your Application ID and confirmation page
- Print the confirmation with the barcode for your interview
Conclusion
- Apply at least 2-3 months before your travel.
- Be honest in your DS-160 and interview.
- Carry all original documents on interview day.
- Show proof you will return to India (job, property, family).
FAQs
Q1. What is a US Visitor Visa?
A US Visitor Visa (B1/B2) is a non-immigrant visa for people traveling to the United States for tourism (B2), visiting family, or short-term business (B1).
Q2. Who needs a US Visitor Visa from India?
All Indian citizens planning to travel to the US for tourism, business, or to visit family or friends must apply for a B1/B2 visa.
Q3. How do I apply for a US Visitor Visa from India?
You must:
- Complete the DS-160 form online.
- Pay the visa application fee.
- Schedule a biometrics appointment and a visa interview at a US Embassy or Consulate.
- Attend both appointments with the required documents.
Q4. What documents are needed for a US Visitor Visa?
- A valid passport
- DS-160 confirmation page
- Visa appointment confirmation
- Visa fee receipt
- A recent passport-size photo
- Proof of financial support
- Documents showing ties to India (job, family, property)
- Travel itinerary (if available)
Q5. How much is the US Visitor Visa fee from India?
As of now, the fee is $185 USD (about ₹15,400). It is non-refundable.
Q6. How long does it take to get a US Visitor Visa?
Processing time depends on the visa interview wait time, document verification, and case processing. It can take a few weeks to a few months.
Q7. Do I need to attend an interview?
Yes. Most applicants must attend an in-person interview unless they qualify for a visa renewal/interview waiver.
Q8. Is travel insurance required?
Travel insurance is not mandatory for the visa, but it is strongly recommended.
Q9. How long can I stay in the US on a Visitor Visa?
Usually, the maximum stay is 6 months, as decided by US Customs and Border Protection at entry.
Q10. Can I extend my stay in the US?
Yes, you can apply for an extension before your visa expires, but approval is not guaranteed.
Q11. Can I work in the US on a Visitor Visa?
No, working on a B1/B2 visa is strictly prohibited.
Q12. What are common reasons for visa rejection?
- Lack of strong ties to India
- Weak financial background
- Incomplete documents
- Previous visa violations
Q13. Can I reapply if my visa is rejected?
Yes, but it’s best to address the reasons for rejection before reapplying.
Q14. Is the visa single or multiple entry?
Most B1/B2 visas are issued as multiple entry and valid for 10 years, but the final decision lies with the consular officer.
Q15. Where do I apply for a US Visa in India?
At the US Embassy in New Delhi or US Consulates in Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, or Kolkata.
