A trip to the US is quite daunting but what if we tell you that you can land in the country via the US visitor visa which is quite easy to get. Now there are two types of visas- a B1 and B2, which are the non-immigrant visas that lets you travel temporarily for business or tourist purposes. In this article, let us make you understand the US B1/B2 tourist visa for Indians in detail.
Why US Tourist Visa for Indians is Necessary?
If you are an Indian and wish to travel to the US, you will require a US tourist visa to enter the country for travel or business purposes. Generally, the US tourist visa for Indians also known as the b-2 visa allows you to stay in the country for up to 6 months. You are also allowed to have multiple entries but in a span of 10 years. For any purpose for your visit to the US, you are required to apply for the US tourist visa to get the entry authorization and abide by the legal compliance of the country. All in all, a US tourist visa ensures that there is legal entry, national security and proper monitoring of individuals coming into the country.
What is the US B1/B2 Tourist Visa? – Application Process and Costs
The US B1 and B2 tourist visas are used for different purposes of visits. The B1 visa is used when you have the purpose of travelling to the US for any business reasons such as conferences, meetings or trips. On the other hand, the B2 visa is like a tourist visa which serves the purpose of vacation, visiting friends/family or tourism related purpose.
Application Process
- To start the application process for the B1/B2 US tourist visa, you will first need to complete the DS-160 form. The DS-160 form is the online application form used to apply for a non-immigrant visa to the US. Also, decide the type of visa you are applying for whether it is B1(business) or B2(tourism or visiting) visa.
- Next, you will need to pay the visa fee which is usually $185.
- Now you will be required to schedule an appointment for your visa interview at the US embassy or consulate. Here you will require your passport number and barcode number from your DS-160 confirmation page.
- Next, make sure to gather all the documents for your interview i.e. your appointment letter, a passport photo, your passport and your DS-160 confirmation page.
The cost of a B type visa is usually $185 excluding the cost of gathering documents, evidence and passport photos.
Documents Required for US Tourist Visa for Indians
The basic documents required for the US tourist visa include a valid passport, proof of your finances, your photograph and a few others. Let us discuss those one by one.
- You should have a valid passport that does not expire for at least 6 months after your stay in the US.
- A passport-sized photograph that is taken within 6 months of the application date and should be taken against a plain background.
- In case you have been invited for your stay in the country, you should provide a valid passport or green card or the invitation letter.
- You should provide financial proof that you have enough funds to cover your basic expenses in the US. The financial proof such as bank statements for the previous 6 months must be checked and attested by the bank.
- If you are employed, then an ITR (income tax return) assessment will be done for the last 3 years.
- If you are a minor, then you will be required to provide a NOC from the school/institute.
- If you are self-employed, you will be required to present a self-employed GST copy.
FAQ’s
- What is the validity of the US tourist visa for Indians?
The US tourist visa is typically valid for up to 10 years from the date it is issued. You get a stay period of up to 6 months in which you also get to enter the country multiple times during the validity of your span.
- What is the processing time for the US tourist visa?
The processing time for the US tourist visa usually takes around 300-320 days or even more depending on if the embassy is satisfied with your process.
- Who is eligible for a B1/B2 tourist visa?
Anyone can stand eligible for the B1/B2 tourist visa provided they mention the solid reason of entering the country. You need to justify that you are visiting for a holiday or work-related purpose and that you will leave the country after your purpose is fulfilled.
- Can I change the status from B1/B2 visas?
Yes, you can change the status of your B1/B2 visas if you meet the requirements. You will just need to submit a change of status application to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Can I extend my stay on the B1/B2 visas?
Yes, if you wish to extend your stay but only for up to one year. But, to do this you will have to file Form I-539 to extend your stay.
Wrapping Up
Applying for the B1/B2 US tourist visa is a simple process, provided you know the right steps to follow. But the chances of your visa getting approved can be difficult as there are many applicants, and the US state department denies many.
If you are someone who needs consultation regarding the B1/B2 US tourist visa and to improve the chances of its approval, contact Immivoyage Consultants today!
