How to Apply for USA B1/B2 Visa (Tourist/Business)
The B1/B2 Visa is a non-immigrant visa for those traveling to the United States for business (B1) or tourism/medical treatment (B2). If you are attending a conference, meeting, or exploring tourist spots, this visa is for you.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for USA B1/B2 Visa
1. Understand the Purpose
– B1: Business (meetings, conferences, negotiations).
– B2: Tourism, visiting friends/family, or medical treatment.
– B1/B2: Combined visa — most applicants apply for this.
2. Complete DS-160 Form Online
Visit the U.S. Department of State website to fill out the DS-160 form.
DS-160 Application Form: https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/
Tips:
– Save the Application ID.
– Upload a recent passport-size photo.
– Print the confirmation page with barcode.
3. Pay the Visa Fee
Current fee for B1/B2 visa: $185 USD (approx ₹15,000 INR).
India: https://www.ustraveldocs.com/in
Payment Options: NEFT, IMPS, Axis/Citibank counter cash deposit, etc.
4. Schedule Appointments (2 Steps)
You must book two separate appointments:
– OFC (Biometrics): Fingerprints and photo taken at a Visa Application Center (VAC).
– Consular Interview: Face-to-face interview at the Embassy/Consulate.
Book appointments: https://www.usvisascheduling.com/en-US/
5. Prepare Documents for Interview
Mandatory Documents:
– Valid passport
– DS-160 confirmation page
– Visa appointment confirmation
– Fee receipt
– Passport-size photograph
Supporting Documents (Not Mandatory)
– Employment/business proof
– Bank statements
– ITRs
– Travel itinerary/invitation letter
– Hotel bookings or return ticket
– Property or asset proof
Where to Attend the Visa Interview?
In India, US Embassy/Consulates are in: New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata.
Most Common USA B1/B2 Visa Interview Questions
General Questions:
1. Why do you want to go to the USA?
2. How long will you stay?
3. Who is going with you?
4. Have you been before?
5. Do you have relatives/friends in the US?
Financial & Employment:
6. Who will fund your trip?
7. What is your profession?
8. Income?
9. Bank statements?
Business (if B1):
10. Business meeting purpose?
11. Company?
12. Who invited you?
Ties to Home Country:
13. Do you own property?
14. Return plan?
15. What ensures return?
Visa Approval and Passport Pickup
Approved passports returned in 3–5 working days. Track here: https://www.ustraveldocs.com/in/in-niv-passporttrack.asp
Pro Tips to Improve Chances of Getting the Visa
– Be honest and concise.
– Don’t overshare unless asked.
– Dress neatly.
– Carry physical copies of documents.
Sample Timeline
Fill DS-160 & Photo – 1–2 hours
Pay Visa Fee – 1 day
Schedule Appointments – Depends
Biometrics – 15–30 mins
Interview – ~15 mins
Passport Back – 3–7 days
FAQ
Is travel insurance required? – Not mandatory.
Is flight booking required before visa? – No
How long is the B1/B2 visa valid? – Usually 10 years (6 months stay per visit).
Applying for a USA B1/B2 visa may seem intimidating, but it’s straightforward if you are well-prepared. Stay calm, gather proper documents, and answer questions with clarity and confidence. A strong profile, financial proof, and return ties are the key to approval.
