Country Guide
Everything you need to know about applying for a US visa — from visa types and requirements to interview tips and slot booking.
Processing Time
3-8 Weeks
Visa Fee (MRV)
$185
Interview
Required
Validity
Up to 10 Years
For tourism, medical treatment, business meetings, and conferences. Valid for up to 10 years with multiple entries.
For full-time students enrolled in accredited US educational institutions. Allows on-campus employment and OPT.
For specialized workers sponsored by a US employer. Requires employer petition and lottery selection.
For employees being transferred to a US branch, subsidiary, or affiliate of their current employer.
US visa interviews are conducted at the following locations in India:
Our experts have helped 2,000+ applicants get their US visa. Let us guide you through the process.
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Book a SlotArrive early at the embassy
Reach at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time. Long queues are common.
Dress formally and professionally
Business casual or formal attire makes a good impression on the visa officer.
Be confident and answer concisely
Keep answers short, relevant, and to the point. Don't volunteer unnecessary details.
Carry all original documents
Have originals + copies of all supporting documents organized in a clear folder.
Demonstrate strong ties to your home country
Show evidence of employment, property, family, or business that motivates you to return.
Prepare your DS-160 form carefully
Double-check all information. Inconsistencies between your form and interview answers are red flags.
Don't lie or misrepresent information
Visa officers are trained to detect dishonesty. A lie can lead to permanent visa ban.
Don't carry electronic devices into the embassy
Phones, smart watches, and other electronics are not allowed inside. Leave them in your car or with a companion.
Don't over-explain or give lengthy answers
Visa officers process hundreds of applications daily. They prefer brief, clear answers.
Don't mention immigration intent on a non-immigrant visa
For B1/B2 and F1 visas, you must prove intent to return. Don't hint at staying permanently.
Don't submit fake or forged documents
The embassy verifies documents. Submitting fakes is a criminal offense and leads to a permanent ban.
Don't argue with the visa officer
If denied, accept it gracefully. You can always reapply with a stronger application.
Use this interactive checklist to track your document preparation. Check off items as you gather them.
Visit ceac.state.gov and fill out the DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application form. This is a detailed form covering your personal, travel, work, and education history. Save your application ID — you'll need it throughout the process.
Pay the $185 (approx INR 15,400) Machine Readable Visa fee through the ustraveldocs.com portal. You can pay via NEFT, at designated bank branches, or through online banking. Keep the receipt number safe.
Log in to ustraveldocs.com with your DS-160 barcode and fee receipt. Schedule both your OFC (biometrics) appointment and visa interview at your preferred consulate. Interview slots can be scarce — book early or use our slot booking service.
Visit the Offsite Facilitation Center (OFC) on the scheduled date. Your fingerprints and photo will be taken. This is usually 1-2 days before your actual visa interview. Carry your passport, DS-160 confirmation, and appointment letter.
Arrive at the US embassy/consulate early. The interview typically lasts 2-5 minutes. The officer will ask about your travel purpose, ties to home, and financial capacity. Stay calm, be honest, and answer confidently. You'll be told the result immediately.
If approved, your passport will be sent to the selected VFS delivery address. Track your passport status on ustraveldocs.com. Processing typically takes 3-5 business days after the interview. You'll receive an email and SMS notification when it's ready.
Let our experts review your application or book a visa slot for you.