To apply for a U.S. B1/B2 visa, you will generally need:

• ✅ Valid Passport (minimum 6 months validity beyond stay)

• 🖊 DS-160 Form (Online Non-Immigrant Visa Application)

• 📸 Digital Photo (per U.S. Embassy specifications)

• 🧾 Visa Fee Payment Receipt (MRV Fee)

• 🧍 Appointment Confirmation (for VAC & Interview)

• 🏦 Proof of Funds (bank statements, salary slips, tax returns)

• 🏠 Proof of Ties to Home Country (job, business, property, family)

• ✈️ Travel Itinerary (if available – flight & hotel details)

• 📄 Invitation Letter (if visiting family/friends)

🧭 3. Step-by-Step USA Tourist Visa Application Process

Step 1: Complete DS-160 Form Online

• Fill out the DS-160 carefully (save the Application ID)

• Upload photo as per U.S. Embassy guidelines

• Print the DS-160 confirmation page with the barcode

Step 2: Pay the Visa Fee

• Pay the non-refundable MRV fee:
  💰 USD $185 (approx. ₹15,500)

• Pay online or via Axis/Citibank as instructed on the U.S. Visa portal.

Step 3: Schedule Appointments (VAC + Interview)

• Book two appointments:
  1️⃣ VAC (Visa Application Center) – biometrics & photo
  2️⃣ U.S. Embassy/Consulate – personal interview

Step 4: Attend VAC Appointment

• Bring passport, DS-160 confirmation, and appointment letter.

• Biometrics (fingerprints & photo) are taken.

Step 5: Attend the U.S. Visa Interview

• The consular officer will ask about:

  • Purpose of your visit

  • Duration of stay

  • Job / Business in India

  • Ties to home country

  • Finances & previous travel history

✅ If approved, the officer will keep your passport for visa stamping.
❌ If refused (under 214(b)), you’ll get your passport back immediately with a refusal letter.

Step 6: Passport Delivery

• Processing usually takes 3–7 working days after interview.

• Your passport with the visa is delivered to your chosen pickup location or via courier.

🕓 Processing Time

• DS-160 + Fee + Scheduling: 1–2 weeks

• VAC + Interview wait time: varies by city (can be weeks or months)

• Post-interview: 3–7 business days for stamping

💡 Book your appointment well in advance — U.S. visa slots can fill up quickly in India.

💰 USA Tourist Visa Cost (India)

🧠 Tips for a Successful B1/B2 Visa Interview

• ✅ Be honest and clear about your travel purpose

• ✈️ Show a realistic travel plan and strong ties to India

• 💼 Carry all supporting financial and employment documents

• ❌ Avoid memorized or vague answers — be natural

• 📅 Don’t book flights before visa approval (unless required for evidence)

🕰 Visa Validity

• Most Indian applicants get 10-year multiple-entry B1/B2 visas

• Each visit usually allows a stay of up to 6 months (as decided at entry by CBP)

🌟 Why Apply Through a Consultant (Optional)

A good visa consultant can help:

• Review DS-160 for errors

• Schedule faster appointments

• Prepare you for the interview with mock questions

• Avoid documentation mistakes that lead to delays or refusals

✨ Key Takeaways

• 📝 Complete DS-160 correctly

• 💰 Pay visa fee & book both appointments

• 🧍 Prepare well for interview

• ✅ Show proof of intent to return to India

• 📅 Apply 2–3 months before intended travel