US visa requirements

Listed below are the US Visa requirements for Indian Citizens:

1. Valid Passport

Your passport must have a validity that extends at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the US. Ensure it has the visa stamp. If you have old passports with previous visas, bring them to the interview as well.

2. Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160)

The Form DS-160 must be filled out online carefully and accurately. This form collects personal, educational, and employment details. After completing the form, print the confirmation page with the barcode and application ID number to bring to your interview.

3. Photograph

A digital photograph must be uploaded while completing the DS-160 form. The photo must meet specific criteria: white background, no glasses, a full-face view, and taken within the last six months.

4. US Entry Visa Requirements

The Visa fee is required for all applicants. This fee is non-refundable and varies by visa type. Payment can be made online or through designated banks. Keep the receipt, as it is required to schedule your interview.

5. Visa Interview Appointment

Schedule your interview at the US Embassy or Consulate. Early appointment scheduling is recommended due to high demand. You will need your DS-160 confirmation number, passport number, and MRV fee payment receipt to book the interview.

6. Supporting Documents

Gather all required documents for your visa category. Standard documents include proof of financial stability (bank statements, salary slips), employment status (job letters, tax returns), and your travel itinerary.

For tourists, showing travel plans and accommodations can be helpful. For business visits, invitation letters from the US company are crucial.

7. Evidence of Ties to India

Demonstrating solid ties to India is vital to assure the consular officer of your returning intention. This can include property deeds, family ties, a letter from your employer granting a leave of absence, and any other document that shows your commitments in India.

8. Specific Visa Category Requirements

Depending on the type of visa you are applying for (tourist, business, student, etc.), there may be additional requirements. For example, students must provide acceptance letters from their US institution, while work visa applicants need to show proof of employment and qualifications.

9. SEVIS Fee for Students and Exchange Visitors

Applicants for F, M, and J visas must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee online before the interview and bring the payment confirmation. This fee funds the Student and Exchange Visitor Program in the US.

Identify Visa Type:

First, identify the type of non-immigrant visa you require based on the purpose of your trip to the United States. The US State Department's website provides comprehensive details on various visa categories, helping you choose the one that fits your travel reasons.

Complete Form DS-160:

Fill out the Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) form online. This form asks for personal information, details of your planned visit, and your background.

Accuracy is crucial as errors can lead to delays or denial of your visa application. Once completed, print the confirmation page with the barcode, as you will need to bring this to your interview.

Upload Your Photo:

During the DS-160 form submission, you will be asked to upload a digital photo. The photograph must meet the US visa photo requirements – it should be a colour photo, taken in the last six months, with a clear and full-face view against a white background.

Pay the Visa Fee:

Next, pay the non-refundable visa application fee, known as the MRV US visa fees for Indians. The fee amount varies depending on the visa category. Keep the receipt as proof of payment.

Schedule an Interview:

Visa applicants, especially those aged between 14 and 79, typically need to schedule an interview at the US Embassy or Consulate in their country. Use the receipt number from your MRV fee payment to book your appointment. Wait times for interview appointments can vary, so early scheduling is advised.

Gather Required Documents:

Gather and prepare the required documents to bring to your interview. These include your passport, DS-160 confirmation page, visa application fee payment receipt, photo, and any additional documents that support your visa application. The specific documents required can vary by visa category.

Attend the Interview:

Finally, attend your visa interview at the scheduled time and embassy location. During the interview, a consular officer will evaluate whether you are qualified to receive the visa category you have applied for and ask questions related to your application. Be prepared to answer questions about your trip, your ties to your home country, and your financial situation.

Indian citizens are required to obtain a US visa before they arrive in the United States; there is no provision for obtaining a visa on arrival for Indian passport holders. The United States has a comprehensive visa application process that must be completed prior to travel.

This involves selecting the appropriate visa type based on the purpose of your visit, completing the online application form (DS-160), paying the required visa application fee, scheduling an interview at the US Embassy or Consulate in India, and attending the visa interview.

Securing a travel insurance plan is crucial for mitigating risks associated with travel disruptions. Additionally, getting cancellation insurance ensures that non-refundable costs are covered if you have to cancel your trip for valid reasons.

Tata AIG’s travel insurance plan offers invaluable peace of mind, protecting you from unforeseen expenses due to cancellations, medical emergencies, and luggage issues. It comes with the flexibility to add on the insurance drivers as per one’s needs.

The travel insurance price is influenced by various factors, including the trip's length, the extent of coverage desired, and the traveller's age. Investing in travel insurance, therefore, is an essential step in travel preparation, ensuring you are well-protected against common travel-related risks.

Applying for a US visa as an Indian citizen requires careful attention to detail and thorough preparation. From choosing the correct visa type to gathering the necessary documentation, each step is integral to the success of your application. It's important to remember that the visa process is designed to assess your eligibility and intentions for visiting the United States.

Therefore, ensuring the accuracy of your application, being truthful during your interview, and demonstrating strong ties to India are crucial aspects that can significantly influence the outcome.

Can I renew my US visa before it expires?

Yes, you can apply for a US visa renewal before your current visa expires. Check the US Embassy's website for specific renewal procedures.

Can I change my visa type once I am in the US?

It is possible to apply for a change of status to a different visa category while in the US. However, approval is not guaranteed, and specific conditions apply.

Information last updated Feb 24. While this information is sourced reliably, visa requirements can change. For the most current visa details, visit the official Consulate/Embassy website.