Understand the process, and you’ll find applying for a US tourist visa easy. A citizen belonging to any foreign country and planning to visit the US for business, fun, or any other purpose will have to have a non-immigrant visa for the same. The most common visa types include B-1 for business, B-2 for tourism, or B-1/B-2 for both business and tourism.
This document outlines the application process for obtaining a US tourist visa. We are going to take you through every step, from filling out the online form down to the visa interview and all the requirements that one needs to have to gain entry into the US. By the end, you’ll understand the process, preparing you for a well-equipped trip to the US.
Key Takeaways
- You will complete the application by filling out the online DS-160 form, scheduling an interview, and preparing the required documents.
- Visa applicants aged 14 to 79 must appear in person at the US Embassy or Consulate.
- Application Fee: Ranges according to class from $160 to $315 USD.
- You must provide evidence, including a valid passport (with at least six months’ validity from your entry date), proof of ties to your home country, and US travel plans.
- Timeframe for US Visa Application Processing: several weeks to as long as months depending on the country and workload at the US Embassy.
Overview of Visas and Types
Knowing the various types of visas is planning a trip to the United States. There are nonimmigrant visitor visas for business and tourism. The B-1 visa is for business, while the B-2 visa is for tourism and medical visits.
Nonimmigrant Visitor Visas
The B-1 visa allows business, such as meeting associates or settling estates. The B-2 visa is for tourism to see the sites, visit family, or to obtain medical care.
Permitted and Prohibited Activities
- You can engage in activities such as meeting business associates or attending events.
- However, you cannot study, work, or live in the U.S. on a visitor visa.
Keep in mind that there are numerous types of visas, with different requirements regarding what activities one can and cannot do. Pay proper attention at all times to the conditions outlined for the visa. For the latest information, please consult the U.S. Embassy or an immigration attorney.
“The Visa Waiver Program enables eligible foreign nationals to enter the United States without having to obtain a visa.”
How to Apply for a US Tourist Visa
It may appear to be somewhat of a nuisance; however, a little hassle, one can accomplish it quite without much problem if he or she is sure about his or her plans. While application processes vary by location, here are some common components of each process.
- Online Visa Application, Form DS-160: The Form DS-160 is on the website of the US Department of State. Use only valid and proper information that applies to you, your trip, and plans for returning to your home country.
- Schedule your visa interview appointment through the US Embassy or Consulate website or by calling the number provided after completing the DS-160.
- Documentation: Obtain all necessary documents, including a valid passport and proof of ties to your own country. Depending on your trip’s purpose, you may need to provide additional documentation.
- Visa Interview: A visa interview at the consulate with a consular officer is in order. Be ready to explain your journey, how you will cover travel costs, and your plans for returning home.
Additional steps may involve further checks for complicated cases or when the applicant needs a new immigration status. Always carefully read through the instructions given by the US Embassy or Consulate. Proceed with due steps so that your US tourist visa application would be without hassle.
“Adequate preparation and availability of the right information are very important factors in regard to successfully applying for a US tourist visa. Once you complete these steps and submit the required documentation, your chances of obtaining the visa to travel to the United States will improve.”
Complete Online Visa Application DS-160
The first step in applying for a US tourist visa is to complete the online Form DS-160. First of all, this form includes personal information of the applicant, his/her travel plans, and other information. The most significant feature of DS-160 is the photo requirement.
Photo Requirements
At the time of submitting the DS-160 form, the applicant has to upload a photo. The photo must be recent, in color, and meet the specified size and background requirements.
- Dimension: 2×2 inches, 51 mm x 51 mm
- Background: Plain white or off-white
- View: Full front view of the face
- Clothing: The applicant should wear normal business or casual attire. Uniforms and hats/head coverings, except when worn for religious adherence, are not acceptable.
The photo requirements mentioned above will play an important role in the US Visa Application Form DS-160, which should be at its best process. Failure to meet these photo standards may result in delays or rejections of the application.
After completing the DS-160 and uploading the photo, go ahead and make the booking for the visa interview. Note that the application for DS-160 is free. You may need to pay an additional document fee based on your visa type.
Visa Interview Appointment Booking
Normally, an applicant has to undergo a face-to-face interview in a US Embassy or Consulate for the purpose of a US tourist visa application. Individuals aged 14 to 79 must appear in person, with some age-related exemptions.
Schedule your visa interview directly with the US Embassy or Consulate where you applied. Depending on the circumstances, sometimes it will be possible to apply at another location if one is also there for the interview. However, wait times vary widely across locations, seasons, and even types of visas.
- NVC tries to schedule an interview within three months from the date of receipt of all documents, though COVID-19 could be a reason for possible delays.
- Applicants must attend the interview, while petitioners do not need to be present.
- It is not necessary for the derivative applicants who will accompany the principal applicant to join them in this initial interview at the NVC.
Note that sometimes the validity periods of the results of these medical examinations are as short as six months. You would, therefore, plan for an interview accordingly.
In preparing for this interview, get all your documents and fees ready. Pay the immigrant visa application fee before your interview, and be ready to make this payment on that day.
Knowing how to go about scheduling a visa interview and what transpires during the interview is indeed the way to enable one to prepare well. This will make the whole application process go smoothly.
Pay Applicable Visa Fees
You should be in a position to pay for the applicable U.S. visa application fee before attending the interview. You can find the required fee and payment methods on the U.S. Embassy or Consulate website. Embassy or Consulate website. It is of great concern to first know the different types of visas and their various fees to make the right payment.
The most common fee paid by applicants is the MRV (Machine Readable Visa). This fee is non-refundable and non-transferable. Payment of an appropriate fee for a single interview may become impossible to schedule if not paid.
Additional Fees to Consider
Applicants might also need to pay a visa issuance or reciprocity fee. These are in addition to the nonimmigrant visa application fee described below and vary with your citizenship and the type of visa for which you’re applying. The following are based on the principle of reciprocity: The US Department of State should charge an applicant for a particular type of visa the same fee that the other country charges US citizens for a similar type of visa.
- Non-petition-based nonimmigrant visa application processing fee (excluding E visa): $185.00
- Petition-based non-immigrant visa processing fee: $205.00
- E visa applicant, Treaty Trader/Investor, Australian Professional Specialty category: $315.00
- K visa applicant, fiancé(e), or spouse of US citizen $265.00
- L visa fraud prevention and detection fee for visa applicant included in L blanket petition: $500.00
- Fee for certain H-1B and L-1 petitioners submitting Form I-129 on behalf of cap-exempt H-1B or L-1 nonimmigrant with 50 or more employees in the United States if more than 50 percent are in H-1B or L-1 nonimmigrant status: $4,500.00
Remember that you cannot refund visa application fees, and you have limited options for rescheduling appointments. Pay the correct fees and follow instructions to avoid delays in obtaining your US visa. These are the requirements you will be needing:
Gather all the required documents
You would require big-time documents for applying for a US tourist visa. First, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay in the US. This is one of those crucial passport requirements for a US visa.
You must also provide the confirmation of your DS-160 visa application form.
Complete and submit the DS-160 visa application form online before attending your visa interview.
Evidence of Ties to Home Country
This will show your intent to return home after your visit to the US. To accomplish this, you’ll have to establish your ties to your home country, showing any of the following:
- proof of employment, such as a letter from your employer;
- family or financial obligations in your country;
- bank statements or other indications of financial transactions;
- and property ownership documents.
Your aim is to convince the visa officer that you have good reasons to go back to your own country after visiting the US. It will be the most important factor in the US visa approval.
Please note that US visa documents vary depending upon the purpose and type of travel. Prepare yourself for any additional documents if required by the interviewing officer.
Attend Visa Interview
An interview with a US visa is a necessity when one applies for a tourist US visa. You must meet with a consular officer who will verify that your application qualifies for a visitor visa. They will ask you to state the purpose of your travel and when you plan to return home.
This may also include fingerprinting..
Below is what to expect during the US visa interview:
- Appear before the embassy or consulate, well-prepared, with all the documents for the interview in hand. This shall include your completed DS-160 application, passport, and supporting materials.
- Be ready to explain the purpose of the visit—describe your travel plans, employment and financial situation, and your relations with your home country.
- You will also be able to prove that you have enough reason to go back home, either in stable employment, family, or other personal commitments.
- If the consular officer deems it necessary, provide additional information or supporting documents to follow up on a case application.
It is in the visa interview that you get to present yourself as a bona fide visitor to the consular officer. Honesty, politeness, and good preparation will see you through.
“Prepare thoroughly for the visa interview, the final step in the U.S. visa process, and present your case clearly and confidently.”
Administrative Processing for Complex Cases
The consular officer will notify you if your US visa application requires additional processing, typically in complex cases, which may delay the process.
There are only two chances of the result of a US visa application: either approval or refusal. Section 221(g) refusal means failure of applicant to establish his or her eligibility.
That is so, because if that is so, the officer may call for further representation. It is to reconsider the application for a visa refused. Such information may be provided by an applicant within one year.
Further Documentation and Reconsideration
Administrative processing times vary depending on the individual circumstances of each case. You should check with the US Embassy or Consulate website in the country where you will apply in order to determine the expected wait times for a nonimmigrant visa. Note: The actual wait time may vary, depending on the circumstances of your application, and this estimate does not include time for administrative processing and returning your passport.
It is hard to determine the exact administrative processing times of the government administrative cases, as these have indefinite times. Expect to resolve most cases within a few months. However, at times it takes years to solve, or sometimes never.
- For the Department of State, it will not entertain status inquiries until 60 days have passed since the beginning of the administrative processing.
- If six months passed without a result, then the OIS may request a status case inquiry through the Congressional liaison.
- Everybody and all departments with questions about administrative processing may reach out to the OIS.
Administrative processing for complex visa cases takes at least 90 days or three months. Most applications process in weeks, but some take months, and a few may take over six months. Factors affecting processing time include the volume of applications at US embassies, especially during peak periods like January 1st and summer holidays.
Authorities consider special alcohol requests crucial to national security. Administrative processing by consular officers usually takes 90 days. Once an application is in processing, though, the embassy and academic institutions usually have limited control.
“Administrative processing for complex visa cases usually takes at least 90 days. Most visa cases resolve in weeks, while some take months, and very few extend beyond six months.”
Steps for the Application of US Tourist Visa:
Obtaining a US tourist visa may seem like a hard nut to crack, but with good assistance, it would be easier. This article is going to guide you through how one can apply for a US tourist visa. We’ll offer clear guidance on what to expect to make your application process smoother.
Application for DS-160 Visa Application Form Online
- One can get the DS-160 application form for a non-immigrant visa online and fill out the same appropriately. The said application shall inquire about one’s personal information, travel plans, and other information that may be necessary in view of the applicant’s visa application.
- Book a visa appointment: This would involve making an appointment with the US Embassy or Consulate in the country where one resides upon filling out the DS form. Complete this well in advance, as visa dates fill up quickly.
- Payment of the Visa Application Fee: You will have to make the payment for the visa application fee before the interview. The amount will be different for different types of visas, and you will find the most current fee on the US State Department website.
Visa Interview
- Gather all necessary documents to bring to your visa interview. They include a valid passport, a confirmation page of DS-160, proof of a bond that hails you to your home country, like employment, and financial assets.
- Go for an interview on the appointed date at the US Embassy or Consulate. Be ready to answer questions on the intended trip, your current finances, and the purpose of your visit to the US. Dress appropriately with professional attire. State the purpose straight and clearly.
- Wait for the Visa Decision: After your interview, the consular officer will further consider your application. This could be a time to pay an additional fee and make appropriate arrangements for the return of your passport with a visa if your application is successful.
That’s how you initiate the process for that US tourist visa. Now, plan ahead, gather all your documents, and get ready to show your strong ties with your home country, so wish yourself good luck. Visa application isn’t that stressful when you have the right preparation.
Entry Requirements at US Port
Obtaining a US tourist visa doesn’t guarantee your automatic admission upon arrival. US Customs and Border Protection officers will determine your admission at the port of entry. If admitted, you will receive an admission stamp or paper Form I-94 indicating the length of stay authorized.
Here is what usually happens upon arrival at a US port of entry:
- Customs and Immigration Inspection: A CBP officer will inspect your passport, visa, and other documents. They can also ask what the purpose of your trip is and what other plans you have.
- Biometric Screening: Biometric processing will take place through fingerprinting and a photograph to determine whether the applicant poses a security or law enforcement threat.
- Admissibility Decision: The CBP officer will determine your admissibility based on your visa application and the information gathered during the inspection at the port of entry.
- Admission Stamp or Form I-94: If admitted, you will receive a stamp in your passport or a paper Form I-94, indicating the date by which you must leave.
Admission to the United States is at the sole discretion of CBP officers. Even if someone has a good and valid visa, they can also refuse admitting him/her into the country if they suspect his/her intentions or compliance with the immigration laws of the US.
“Getting a US visa doesn’t mean entry into the country; it is solely at the discretion of the CBP officers at the port of entry.”
Knowing US entry rules and preparation for inspection will facilitate this process upon arrival and minimize tensions.
Extending Your Stay in the US
If you need to stay longer in the US than the time allowed, you may apply for an extension to the USCIS. Failure to leave on time means you will be in jeopardy of losing your status for a visa. This might also impact your future attempts at getting a visa.
To extend a US tourist visa/stay:
- File Form I-539 Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status with USCIS no more than 45 days before your I-94 expiration date.
- If you wish to extend, you must also provide supporting documents regarding the reason for the need for an extension.
- Send the required filing fee with Form I-539 for the application of Form I-539.
- Then, you will have to wait for the processing of your application with the USCIS and a decision regarding your extension.
Understand that this is not an automatic approval; officials assess each case based on its individual merits.
You shall not stay in the US beyond the date on your I-94, even if you have filed an application for extension. You are now classified as out of status. Consult an immigration attorney to address any questions or concerns about your visa extension.
“An unlawful presence in the US after the expiration of a visa can have grave consequences: the invalidation of your visa and possible future eligibility to obtain a visa.”
Change of Immigration Status
If your plans change while in the United States, you may need to change your visa status. For instance, if you marry a US citizen or receive a job offer, you should apply for a new visa at a US Embassy or Consulate when you leave the country.
You must submit an application for a change of status or purpose of visit to USCIS before your stay expires. You can change your status if you were lawfully admitted, maintain valid status, and comply with all conditions. Additionally, you should not have any disqualifying criminal history.
This is because some visa categories need not apply for a change of status, for instance, diplomatic officials, a visa, or students, F and M visas. In the case of a change from vocational student to academic student or from certain specific exchange visitor categories, an alien must get a waiver.
- If you were admitted for business in B-1 status, you do not have to change your status to take a pleasure stay before your business stay expires.
- Visa Waiver Program, crew members, and participants in certain programs cannot change status.
- If you were admitted in or later obtained T or U nonimmigrant status, then you have forms other than Form I-539 that you must file.
Application for change of US Visa status or adjustment of US Visa category is not that simple. Likewise, broad steps for application to the USCIS are also present, which include some forms along with documents.
Change of status requests can take as long as eight weeks. Family members must apply concurrently and not after the principal visa holder. For further information or a request for aid, contact your foreign mission, international organization, or NATO Headquarters.
Conclusion
Obtaining a US tourist visa is, therefore, a complex process of not missing the least detail and following all the rules. The above guide has taken you through the main steps, right from the initiation of an online application to a visa interview, and finally, how to handle additional steps.
After all, a U.S. tourist visa does not in any way mean entry into the country. If, however, the steps are followed and the requirements met, there is a better chance to get one. Note that no refund of the visa fee is given. In case it is for renewal purposes or reapplication, you have to go through the process again.
Knowing how to apply for a US tourist visa pays a lot. It makes the journey smoother and enhances the possibility of getting a visa. The closer attention is paid to the details, and readiness for the interview is crucial.
FAQ
What are the different types of US visas?
Basically, there are two types of US visas. First, there are nonimmigrant visas for temporary stays. Immigrant visas are for permanent residence. Of the former, the nonimmigrant visitor visas include the B-1 for business and the B-2 for tourism and medical treatment.
What are some of the activities allowed and not allowed on a tourist visa in the US?
You can do quite a lot on a US tourist visa, including such activities as consulting with business associates and attending conferences. You can also settle an estate, negotiate a contract, and visit friends or relatives.
But there are things you cannot do: studying, employment, and paid performances are barred. You also cannot arrive as a crewmember and seek permanent residence.
What exactly happens step by step in the process of applying for a US tourist visa?
To apply, the step entailed is an online application, Form DS-160, followed by booking a visa interview appointment. You will be required to make a few fee payments and also collect some documents.
Finally, attend the visa interview.
What is the photo requirement for the US visa?
The supporting photo of yourself, which you are going to submit for the US visa, should be colored, recent, and of a specific size and background.
How Do I Make an Appointment for a Visa Interview?
The interview appointment is to be made with a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the home country. Sometimes an application may be made at another location if you will be there. Wait times vary depending on location, time of year, and visa type.
What documents do I need to gather and take to the visa interview?
You will need a valid passport, the DS-160 confirmation page, and receipts of the fee that you will need to pay. Other requirements include proof of purpose of trip and intentions of returning, proving your ability to pay for your expenses.
What to expect in a visa interview?
At the visa interview, a consular officer will ask you questions about your travel plans and when you plan to return home. In many instances, your fingerprints will also be taken.
What if additional administrative processing is required for my visa application?
This fact will be communicated to the officer in case the application needs further processing. This is in the case of complex cases and may result in delays in the issuance of your visa.
What are the entry requirements upon arrival at a US port of entry?
Upon arrival at a US port of entry, generally an airport, the CBP officials determine whether to admit or not admit you. If your case is such that you can be admitted, you will be given an admission stamp or Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, giving the duration of stay.
How do I extend my stay in the US beyond my visa expiration?
If you want to extend your stay, you must apply with USCIS for an extension. If you remain in the United States longer than authorized, you will no longer have a valid visa. That may also affect your eligibility for a future visa.
US Immigration Status Change
Can I change my immigration status while I am in the US?
You can change status in the US, but if you leave, you would have to go back to a US Embassy or Consulate to get a new visa.
