The United States categorizes foreign entry permissions into various visa types depending on the nature and duration of travel. Among these, non-immigrant visas such as the B1 (business) and B2 (tourism) visas are commonly issued to travelers from India for short-term visits.
Overview of B1/B2 Visas
The B1 visa covers short-term business engagements, such as attending meetings, conferences, and training programs, whereas the B2 visa permits entry for tourism, family events, or medical visits. Both categories are often issued as a combined B1/B2 visa, allowing flexibility for travelers engaging in both business and leisure activities during their stay.
General Document Checklist
Applicants typically prepare the following documents as part of the B1/B2 visa process:
- A passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay.
- DS-160 form confirmation page.
- Two photographs (2×2 inches, white background).
- Supporting financial documentation:
- Salary slips (last 3 months).
- Tax returns (past 3 years).
- Stamped bank statements (6 months).
- Invitation letters and NOC (for business visits).
- Visa appointment confirmation and biometric documents.
Application Flow
The visa application includes multiple steps:
- Completing the DS-160 application form via the CEAC website.
- Paying the non-refundable application fee (USD 185 for B1/B2).
- Scheduling a visa appointment at the nearest US Embassy or Consulate.
- Attending the interview with all required documentation.
- Providing biometric data (fingerprints and photo) if applicable.
Processing Timelines
Upon completion of the interview and submission of all required documents, US visa processing for Indian nationals generally takes 5–7 business days. The passport is then returned via courier or collected in person based on regional procedures.
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Additional Notes
- Entry to the visa center is permitted only at the appointment time.
- No visa-on-arrival is available for Indian passport holders.
- Applicants may be asked for additional documents at the discretion of consular officers.
Visa Status Tracking
Application progress can be tracked using the CEAC Visa Status Tracker by inputting the DS-160 confirmation details.
Documents Required for US Visa Application/Interview
The following documents are commonly required for Indian citizens to apply for a US Visa:
- Passport valid for six months beyond the intended date of entry into the United States.
- Colored photographs.
- Marriage Certificate (if applicable).
- Bank statement and financial record.
- Divorce/death certificate of spouse (if applicable).
- All original documents establishing the relationship between the petitioner and the applicant need to be submitted. for family-based cases or dependent Visa.
- A letter from the prospective employer confirming the essential elements of the job offer needs to be submitted for work visa.
- Police Clearance Certificate.
- Certificate of birth.
- Court records (if applicable).
- Military records (if any).
- DS 160 confirmation page printout.
- Fee receipt copy of US Visa.
- Form 60 or Income Tax return of last three years.
- Day-wise itinerary for tourism visa.
- Practical application of research, if traveling to the US for research purposes.
