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Nonimmigrant and tourist visas

Find out how to work in the U.S. or visit as a student or tourist. Learn how to renew your visa and what to do if your visa is lost.

How to apply for or renew a U.S. tourist visa

If you visit the U.S. for tourism or business, you may need a visitor visa, also known as a tourist visa. Learn how to get and renew this type of nonimmigrant visa.

How to check the status of your visa application

Find out how to check the status of your visa application online. And to avoid delays, learn how to update your address if you move while waiting for your visa to be approved.

What happens if your visa application is rejected

Find out what to do if your visa is denied, and learn if you are eligible for a waiver of grounds of inadmissibility.

Foreign visitors: what to do if your visa or passport is lost or stolen

If you are in the U.S. and your visa or passport was lost or stolen, learn how to report it and apply for a new one.

Get a student visa to study in the U.S.

To study in the U.S. as an international student, you must get a student visa. Learn about the types of student visas, how to apply, and if you can work while you study.

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Learn about the different nonimmigrant temporary work visa categories and how to apply.

020-49027000 / 020-25550000

[email protected], us tourist visa.

• United States Of America Visa
• United States Of America Tourist Visa

What is the Tourist Visa for USA?

How to apply for us tourist visa, eligibility for us tourist visa, documents required for us tourist visa, photo specification, us tourist visa processing time, us tourist visa fees, how to check visa status, when you have this visa, us tourist visa - definitive guide.

From the tall skyscrapers in New York and Chicago to the natural Niagra Falls and the Grand Canyon, the US is extremely diverse on all fronts. To tour the United States of America, as an Indian citizen, you will need a US Tourist Visa , officially known as the B2 Visa, which will grant you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the myriad experiences and landscapes that define the United States.

To enter the country for the purpose of tourism, you will need a permit for the same. The B2 Visa - USA allows you to visit the country for recreational purposes such as visiting family/friends, touring, and also for medical treatments. A common question people ask is “ what is B2 Visa for USA ?”; The tourist and the B2 Visa is one and the same. It is usually issued along with the B1 as a B1/ B2 Visa . The permit is an NIV (Non-Immigrant) and is in the form of a stamp in your passport. Unlike other countries, the US Tourist Visa validity is totally dependant on the decision of the issuing authority. Depending on how your interview goes, and how strong your application is, they may issue it for multiple-entry for any duration between 6 months, and up to 10 years. However, you can only stay in the country for a maximum of 6 months during each entry. People from countries belonging to the US tourist Visa Waiver Program (VWP) do not require a permit to enter the country.

The US Tourist Visa application is a long and tiring process. However, before applying for a permit, you will need to define the purpose of the visit. It is also vital to ensure that you are eligible to apply for the same. Once you have this under your belt, the process of applying for US Tourist Visa follows as below -

• Make sure that you have all the documents required for B2 Visa for USA .
• To answer the question on where to apply for US Tourist visa ; It is done online. Visit the US Department of State Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) website, and fill in the DS-160 US Tourist Visa form . You will need the DS-160 form barcode for the rest of the procedure.
• After this, you should proceed to pay the application fees. Make a note of the receipt number as you will require this for the next step.
• Once this is done, log in to your account again and proceed to book the appointments. You will have to book 2 appointments. The first one is for the biometric submission at one of the five VACs, and the second one is for your interview at the US Embassy or Consulate. The B2 Visa interview questions will be based on your application, purpose, duration, etc.
• On the day of your first appointment, visit your VAC along with a passport, appointment confirmation page, and a DS-160 confirmation page. You will be required to submit to a fingerprint scan, and a photo will be taken.
• For your visa interview, you will have to visit the embassy or consulate along with a valid passport, appointment confirmation page, and the VAC stamped DS-160 page. 

Your US Tourist Visa duration will vary on the status of your interview at the embassy. You will have to prove to them that you are planning to stay in the country only for a specific period. It is necessary to answer honestly, and correctly to get your visa approved, and have long validity.

Note:- Individuals between the below the age of 14 and older than 80 do not require to attend the interview, and are also exempt from a biometric submission. The visa interview is also waived for people who have had their US Tourist Visa expired in the last 12 months and are visiting the country for the same purpose. However, in certain cases, you may be required to attend biometrics and interview. 

The application for USA Tourist Visa online has to be completed correctly. The documents that are submitted have to be genuine. Any mistakes in the application can cause a delay in your processing. Alternately, fake or invalid documents can get your application rejected. A visa rejection is an important issue and can prevent you from applying for another visa in the future.

To determine if you are one of the people who can apply for US Tourist Visa , there are certain criteria you must meet. To apply for a tourist visa for USA from India , you will need to satisfy the following conditions -  

• You must hold a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of intended travel.
• You must be able to prove to the consular officer that your purpose of the visit is purely for tourism or medical treatment and that your stay is only temporary.
• You should be able to prove that you have sufficient funds to support your stay.
• You should also be able to show that you have a residence in India, or that you have social or economic ties that will ensure that you come back to India.

As per the US Tourist Visa guidelines , the following is the list of documents required for US tourist visa need to be submitted during your application.

• Original passport
• 2 identical photos
• Proof of sufficient funds - Bank Statements for the last 6 months/ Passbook
• Proof of employment/study/retirement
• Travel itinerary
• Proof of accommodation
• Proof of return
• If visiting a family/friend, letter of invitation along with their valid green card/visa/residence permit

• Dimensions:  50mm X 50mm
• Colour: Coloured
• Recently taken
• Background: plain white
• Must have 70% face coverage
• Facial expression: neutral
• Eyes directed towards the camera and wide open 
• Glasses: allowed for medical reasons only
• Uniforms are not permitted
• Headgears: allowed only for religious reasons
• Facial hair is permitted.

The time taken to complete the tourist visa for USA process depends on several factors such as the workload at the embassy or consulate, express delivery, type and length of visa, and so on. Normally, this takes around 15-30 days and can vary if there are additional administrative processes required. However, the job of scheduling an interview can take much more and have high waiting time. As a result, it is highly suggested to apply well in advance. 

The total fees for the process depend on several factors like the service charges, biometric charges, and delivery charges, and so on. The fees may be changed by the US government without any prior notice. Therefore, it is necessary to confirm the fees before you start applying.

Post your submission of the application, it will be processed. This might take longer or shorter than the predicted time. In the meanwhile, you can track your application in several ways. 

To track your application, you can visit the CEAC and check the US Tourist Visa status using your interview location, and DS-160 barcode number. Alternately, you can also mail ‘[email protected]’ with your passport number.

Once you have the B2 Visa , there are a few things you should keep in mind before, and during your visit. These are given below as - 

• Before travelling, ensure that you have all the necessary travel documents, along with your visa stamped in the passport.
• Check for the type of entry, and the validity.
• The permit does not guarantee you entry into the country. The US Customs and Border Patrol officials at the port of entry have the authority to permit or deny you entry.
• While you are in the USA, you cannot participate in any work or employment activities while you are on a tourist permit.
• You must abide by the US immigration laws.
• A US B2 Visa in an expired passport is still valid. It is valid till the visa expiry date until which you can enter the country using a new passport and valid visa in the old passport.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i extend my us tourist visa.

Yes, you can extend the US tourist permit. To do this, you must make an application to the USCIS (the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) before your current visa expires. However, the chances of a successful extension depend upon several factors such as the purpose of stay, immigration status, finances, and so on. You will also have to submit most of the documents that you have submitted for the original visa. If your application is rejected, you must leave the country before expiry. 

After Expiring My US Tourist Visa How Long Can I Stay?

You cannot stay back in the country after the allowed period. You must leave the country before the expiry. Staying back in the country once you have expired your visa is considered as an offence and can get you deported. In cases of long periods of stay after the expiry, you may even be banned from applying for a visa again. However, you may stay back in the country in the case where you have applied for an extension and it has been delayed due to unforeseen circumstances that are beyond your control.

What is the Medical Test for US Tourist Visa?

There are no medical tests mandatory for the tourist permit. Being a short term category, there is no need to get a medical test. However, it is always suggested to get a medical check-up done before travelling to a new country to protect yourself and the people living in the US. 

Can I Convert My US Tourist Visa into Work Visa?

You may convert a tourist visa into a work permit. However, for this purpose, your employer will have to find an application at the USCIS. Along with this, there are other complications while trying to convert the status as the H1-B work visa is different from the B1/B2 visa. 

How to get a 10 year US tourist visa?

The US tourist permit can be granted for validity between 6 months and 10 years. However, the decision for this purely depends on the consular officer. The officer examines your case and decides the validity. It can also depend on the border control officers at the port of entry. Keep in mind that even if you get a 10-year visa, you are only allowed to stay for a maximum of 6 months in the US per entry.  

Is it necessary to book a hotel and flight before going for a US tourist visa interview?

It is not mandatory to book a hotel or flights for a US visa application or even the visa interview. However, it is mandatory that you possess sufficient funds for doing the same. During the interview, you will be asked for your proof of return and the source of your funds.

Can I apply for a US tourist visa if I already have a green card application?

Yes, technically you can apply for a tourist visa even if your green card (EB3) application is pending. Even though this is not grounds for automatic visa rejection, it will give you a less chance than usual as the consular officer reviewing your application will need to be convinced that you do not plan to immigrate to the US before obtaining the green card. 

What are the factors that can affect the approval of the US tourist visa?

The basic factors that affect the decision are that you have to meet the eligibility conditions, you must submit genuine documents and correct information, the accuracy of the procedure followed, the answers you provide during the interview, your previous travel history, proof that you will return once your visa has expired, and so on. 

My US tourist visa application got rejected. Can I reapply?

The possibility of re-application depends on the reason behind the refusal. When your visa is rejected, you will receive the reason for refusal as well. If the reasons are insufficient funds, insufficient proof of returning home, or other minor problems, you may be able to apply as long as your conditions have changed and you will be able to prove it to the consular officer. However, if you have been refused due to criminal convictions, fake documents, or other major reasons, your application will again get rejected, and may even be banned from re-applying.

Will I get a US tourist visa if I'm unemployed?

Yes, you may get the visa even if you are unemployed. Being employed is not one of the eligibility criteria. And as a result, unemployment status cannot lead to visa rejection. However, you must be able to prove that you have the funds to support your stay. You will also have to provide the source of these funds.

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Step by Step Guide to Apply for US Visa in India

India is one of the largest countries that uses US Visas. In 2019, US Consulates in India issued about 0.8 million non-immigrant and immigrant visas . In general, if you plan travel to US , you need a US Visa . Depending on your purpose of travel, you would one of the non-immigrant visas or immigrant visas. This article will cover the step by step process to apply for US Visa in India.

The process to apply for US Visa is pretty much similar across the world with some variations in India like payment options, some fees. Below charts shows the high-level steps to apply for US Visa in India. We will look at each of these steps in detail below with screenshots as applicable.

Step 1: US Visa Category Determination

The first step for applying for the US visa is to identify the visa category type. The visa category depends on the purpose of your trip. There are many visa types that are available for visa stamping in India. Below are some of the common types of visas that are available for stamping in India.

• Business / Tourist Visa – Visa Type B
• Work Visa – Visa Type H, L, O, P, Q
• Student Visa – Visa Type F, M
• Exchange Visitor – Visa Type J
• Other Visas  – C, D ( Transit, ship crew), R ( Religious Worker), I (Journalist), etc.

If you do not know the visa type, you should check Visa Types at ustraveldocs.com for India to get more details and determine your exact visa type that you are eligible.  You also need to meet the eligibility to apply for US Visa in India.

Step 2: Collect Info for US Visa Application, Pick US Consulate

Once you know the visa type, then you need to collect information that you need for completing the US Visa application online. The US Visa application form is “Form DS-160” for non-immigrant visas like B1/B2, H1B, L1, F1, etc. It is called “Form DS-260” for immigrant visas. The online application form is very detailed and you will need to fill in details related to personal info and your eligibility. Below are some of the common documents that you will need. These will vary by the visa type

General Documents Required for Visa Application

• Your personal contact information
• Your Family information of Spouse, Parents, Kids as applicable.
• Your current occupation information
• All your previous work experience history
• All your education history (need from 10 th grade on wards)
• US Travel Itinerary
• Details about who will pay for your US trip.
• Digital Passport photo with white background.
• US Point of Contact information
• Your Social Media Contact information like Facebook, Twitter, etc.
• If you have travel companions, their information.

Visa Type Specific Eligibility Documents

 In addition to above, you would need specific documents and information related to the US Visa type you choose.  For example, if you are applying for Work visa like H1B, you will need to have details about the USCIS H1B Petition approval notice.

Reschedule US Visa Appointment in India

You can reschedule your US visa appointment in India up to 4 times ( excluding the first time appointment booking). For all details, read How may times can I reschedule my US Visa Appointment in India

Article being worked on – Stay tuned.

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• Home > Updated Advisory on Tourist Visas

Updated Advisory on Tourist Visas

Embassy of India

Washington DC

The Government of India has decided, with immediate effect, to restore valid long duration (10 years) regular (paper) tourist visas for the nationals of USA. Fresh issue of regular (paper) long-duration (10 years) tourist visas has also been restored for nationals of USA.

E-Tourist visas under the three options (one month, one year and five year) which remained suspended since March 2020, shall stand restored for nationals of 156 countries. Applications for fresh e-tourist visas for eligible nationalities can also be made at the Indian E-Visa Portal [ https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html ]

• The current scheme of regular tourist visa/e-visa (single entry of 30 days duration) on gratis basis will be discontinued w.e.f. 1 st April 2022.  

Application for fresh tourist visa can be made as per following procedure:

E visa: Eligible foreign nationals can apply for e-tourist visa at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html . [The applicant may note that the Embassy does not process e-visas and any enquiries in this regard will need to be made directly on the e-visa portal].

Regular (Paper) Tourist visa: Application for regular (paper) tourist visa from Embassy / Consulate in USA can be submitted by following the link: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind

Foreign nationals on tourist/e-tourist visas would be permitted to enter India only through designated Sea Immigration Check Posts (ICPs) or Airport ICPs by flights, including those under the Vande Bharat Mission or ‘air bubble’ scheme or by any flights as allowed by Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation. In no case, the foreign nationals will be allowed to enter through land border or riverine routes on Tourist visa/E-Tourist visa.

Applicants are also advised to go through the guidelines for international travel to India available at:  https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/GuidelinesforInternationalarrivalsupdatedon10thFebruary2022.pdf .

28 March 2022

The current scheme of regular tourist visa/e-visa (one month stay only) on gratis basis will also continue.

15 March, 2022

            The Government of India has decided to issue fresh tourist visas with effect from 15 October, 2021 for group tourism and from 15 November, 2021 for individual travel.  In this context, the following may be noted:

• All foreign nationals intending to visit India for tourism will be allowed to enter India on e-Tourist Visa/regular paper Tourist Visa through chartered flights (for group tourism only) with effect from 15 October, 2021.
• All foreign nationals intending to visit India for individual tourism purposes will be permitted to enter India on e-Tourist Visa/regular paper Tourist Visa with effect from 15 November, 2021. Such travel will be allowed through Vande Bharat Mission, Air Bubble Scheme or by any scheduled/non-scheduled commercial flight allowed by the Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation.
• Foreign nationals will not be allowed to enter India through land routes on e-Tourist Visa/regular paper Tourist Visa.
• A Single Entry e-Tourist Visa/regular paper Tourist Visa valid for a stay of up to 30 days will be issued, which will have to be utilized within a period of 120 days from the date of issue . This visa will be issued on a gratis basis for a limited time once to each applicant. However, VFS service charge and payments on account of value-added services like courier, etc. will need to be made.
• It may be noted that existing valid e-Tourist Visa/regular paper Tourist Visa issued before 6 October, 2021 will continue to remain suspended and travel on such visas is not permitted.
• The process of obtaining e-Tourist Visa/Regular Tourist Visa may be accessed at the following links:
• e-Tourist Visa -  https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html . The applicant may note that the Embassy does not process e-visas and any enquiries in this regard will need to be made directly on the e-visa portal.
• Regular Tourist Visa through VFS Global with effect from 13 December, 2021 (12:01 AM Eastern Standard Time) - https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind
• Applicants are also advised to go through the guidelines for international travel to India available at https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/GuidelinesforInternationalarrivalsdated30thNovember2021.pdf

Advisory on Tourist Visas

• A Single Entry e-Tourist Visa/regular paper Tourist Visa valid for a stay of up to 30 days will be issued, which will have to be utilized within a period of 120 days from the date of issue . This visa will be issued on a gratis basis for a limited time once to each applicant.
• e-Tourist Visa - https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html . The applicant may note that the Embassy does not process e-visas and any enquiries in this regard will need to be made directly on the e-visa portal.
• Regular Tourist Visa through the Embassy of India – https://www.indianembassyusa.gov.in/extra?id=88
• Applicants are also advised to go through the guidelines for international travel to India available at  https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/Guidelinesforinternationalarrivals17022021.pdf .

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Advance travel planning and early visa application are important. If you plan to apply for a nonimmigrant visa to come to the United States as a temporary visitor, please review the current wait time for an interview using the tool below. Not all visa applications can be completed on the day of the interview; please read the information below for more details .

Check the estimated wait time for a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Note: Please check the individual Embassy or Consulate website to determine if your case is eligible for a waiver of the in-person interview.

Applicants scheduling visa appointments in a location different from their place of residence should check post websites for nonresident wait times.

Select a U.S. Embassy or Consulate:

Global Visa Wait Times

Wait Time for Interview

The estimated wait time to receive a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. embassy or consulate and is based on workload and staffing and can vary from week to week. The information provided is an estimate and does not guarantee the availability of an appointment.

Wait Time for Interview Waiver

Wait times for applicants eligible for Interview Waiver are applicable only for locations where applicants schedule appointments to submit their passport and any required documents to a U.S. embassy or consulate. The wait time estimate does not account for the time required for a consular officer to adjudicate the application nor mailing time of passports or other documents. Refer to the website of the Embassy or Consulate Visa Section where you will apply to determine your eligibility for Interview Waiver and for instructions for submitting a nonimmigrant visa application. Note that applicants must be a national or resident of the country where they are applying to be eligible to apply via Interview Waiver.

Qualifications for an Expedited Interview Appointment

Consular sections overseas may be able to expedite your interview date if there is an urgent, unforeseen situation such as a funeral, medical emergency, or school start date. The process to request an expedited nonimmigrant visa interview varies by location. You should refer to the instructions on the website of the Embassy or Consulate Visa Section  where you will interview, or on their online appointment scheduling site. You will need to provide proof of the need for an earlier appointment.

In all cases : You must first submit the online visa application form (DS-160), pay the application fee, and schedule the first available interview appointment. Only at this point will a consular section consider your request for an expedited appointment.

Note: Travel for the purpose of attending weddings and graduation ceremonies, assisting pregnant relatives, participating in an annual business/academic/professional conference, or enjoying last-minute tourism does not qualify for expedited appointments. For such travel, please schedule a regular visa appointment well in advance.

These estimates do not include time required for administrative processing, which may affect some applications. When administrative processing is required, the timing will vary based on individual circumstances of each case.

There are only two possible outcomes for U.S. visa applications. The consular officer will either issue or refuse the visa. If a visa applicant has not established that he or she is eligible for a visa, the consular officer must refuse that application. However, some refused visa applications may require further administrative processing. When administrative processing is required, the consular officer will inform the applicant at the end of the interview. The duration of the administrative processing will vary based on the individual circumstances of each case. At the conclusion of the administrative processing period, the consular officer might conclude that an applicant is now qualified for the visa for which he or she applied. The officer may also conclude that the applicant remains ineligible for a visa. Visa applicants are reminded to apply early for their visas, well in advance of the anticipated travel date.

Important Notice:   Except in cases of emergency travel (i.e. serious illnesses, injuries, or deaths in your immediate family), before making inquiries about status of administrative processing, applicants should wait at least 180 days from the date of interview or submission of supplemental documents, whichever is later.

About Visa Processing Wait Times – Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants

Information about nonimmigrant visa wait times for interviews and visa processing time frames are shown on this website, as well as on U.S. Embassy and Consulate websites worldwide. It should be noted that the “Wait Times for a Nonimmigrant Visa to be Processed” information by country does not include time required for administrative processing. Processing wait time also does not include the time required to return the passport to applicants, by either courier services or the local mail system.

In addition, it is important to thoroughly review all information on the specific  Embassy or Consulate Visa Section website  for local procedures and instructions, such as how to make an interview appointment. Embassy and Consulate websites will also explain any additional procedures for students, exchange visitors and those persons who need an earlier visa interview appointment.

About Wait Times

* Calendar days refers to every day of the week, including days when embassies are closed (such as weekends and holidays).

† Work days refers only to days when the embassy is open and does not include weekends and holidays.      

‡ A, G, and NATO applications are excluded from these wait times, as they are processed separately.

Immigrant Visa Interview-Ready Backlog Report

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How to apply for a US Tourist visa in India

If you are an Indian citizen and wish to travel to America, you can apply for a US Tourist Visa online. iVisa helps you fill out the DS-160 form online and assist with the application process or renewal of your B1/B2 visa for the United States. Read on for more information.

Filling out the DS-160 form online correctly is the most important aspect of the process that will definitely increase your approval chances of getting your B1/B2 visa for the first time or renewing it successfully. Let iVisa guide you through the process to apply or renew your US visa .

Here is everything you need to know about how to apply for a US Tourist visa from India including the visa interview requirements.

What is the B1/B2 visa?

The American B1/B2 visa is one of the most requested visas in the world and enables travelers to enter the United States of America.

The B1 Category is for travelers visiting the US for business or to participate in business meetings, events, congresses, fairs, or scientific, educational, or professional conventions. On the other hand, the B2 Category is for people traveling to the US for tourism, pleasure, or medical treatment.

What it takes to get a US Tourist Visa from India

A DS-160 non-immigrant form is used for temporary visits to the United States for foreign nationals, such as Indian citizens. It must be submitted electronically to the US Department of State website. The information of the visa applicant on the DS-160 form will be used to process the US visa application combined with a visa interview.

What are the requirements for an online DS-160 exam?

You don't have to meet many requirements for the DS-160 exam . All you need to provide is:

A valid passport: Anyone who wants to make the US visa application from India must have a valid passport valid for at least another six months after the date of intended arrival in the US.

An applicant photo: Along with the application form, you will need to upload a picture of yourself. You must upload a recent photo and meet the requirements, as well as print it to bring to the visa appointment.

A payment method: this can be a credit or debit card to pay the processing fee.

Application form for the US visitor visa from India

Next, you should check the program listing. We have simplified the US tourist visa from India application to just three simple steps:

First, you will have to provide some personal details and travel information. This will affect the visa fee of your US Tourist visa form.

You will be asked to make a payment and review your form to ensure it is error-free. You will need to make the application again if you make an error.

You will be required to upload supporting documents, such as a passport photo, when you move on to the next step. Besides, you will be notified if additional documents are required for the visa application.

Once you are done, you can submit the application for a US visitor visa from India. You will be directed to a confirmation page. We will send the confirmation letter email .

The process to renew your B1/B2 visa

To renew your B1/B2 visa with iVisa is pretty simple. Simply:

Fill out the simplified iVisa application form.

Receive support from your iVisa Expert from start to end.

Send the required documentation according to the instructions we give you or attend the interview if necessary.

Pick up your passport with your new visa and get ready to travel!

Processing time & cost of the B1/B2 visa application

When applying through iVisa, we charge a processing fee to process the application form on your behalf.

• Standard processing takes 30 days and costs USD $376.99

Please note that the Indian government charges a fee of 160 USD, this is additional to our processing fee, which can be paid from a bank in India.

More information about the visa process for the US tourist visa from India

After completing the DS-160 non-immigrant visa form, it is important to follow the next steps of the application process. You will have to print the form and barcode page, and schedule a visa interview appointment at a visa application center if this is your first time applying for a B1/B2 visa. In addition, you must pay the visa application fee .

Requirements to renew your visa without an interview

If you want to apply to renew your B1/B2 visa, you can apply for a visa interview waiver if you meet one of the following requirements:

Your last US visa did not expire more than 24, 36, or 48 months ago (depending on your nationality), or it must still be valid.

Applicants under 14 or over 79 years of age can also apply for the visa renewal without having to attend an interview.

More questions about the DS-160 form?

If you have any questions about how to apply for a US Tourist visa from India, don't worry, our customer service experts are here to help 24/7 via chat or [email protected] . You can also read the complete guide to the US B1/B2 visa for more information.

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• iVisa is NOT affiliated with any government agency. This site does not provide legal advice and we are not a law firm. None of our customer service representatives are lawyers and they also do not provide legal advice. We are a private, internet-based travel and immigration consultancy provider dedicated to helping individuals travel around the world. You may apply by yourself directly on the various government websites. The source of information: https://www.uscis.gov/

The Economic Times daily newspaper is available online now.

Us consulate in hyderabad conducts visa interviews for 1500 applicants in 'super saturday' exercise.

US Consulate Team in Hyderabad conducted a quarterly Super Saturday, processing 1500 visitor visa applicants. Efforts to streamline the process and strengthen US-India connections were highlighted, with a focus on technological advancements and the increasing number of Indian visa applicants.

US consolidates visitor visa interview waiver appointments in New Delhi

Visa fees for international artists to tour in the US shot up 250% in April. It could be devastating

Apply for visas in advance: VFS Global tells travelers as demand spikes

— USAndHyderabad (@USAndHyderabad)

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New Schengen Visa Rules for Indian Visitors: Key Questions Answered 

Peden Doma Bhutia , Skift

April 23rd, 2024 at 5:39 AM EDT

Destinations value Indian travelers, but lengthy visa processing times lasting months act as significant deterrents. The adoption of these new regulations by European authorities reflects a proactive effort to tackle these concerns, aiming to boost tourism flow.

Peden Doma Bhutia

The European Commission has introduced a new visa “cascade” regime for Indian nationals applying for Schengen visas in India. This regime looks to offer longer-term, multi-entry Schengen visas, based on the applicant’s travel history.

Indian travel agents had been complaining of Schengen visa delays as a major challenge to the summer travel rush from India.

• How does one qualify for the longer duration visas?

The European Commission can issue a two-year multiple-entry visa after a traveler “has obtained and lawfully used two visas within the previous three years.” This demonstrates a positive travel history and compliance with previous visa regulations.

Subsequently, after granting the two-year visa, authorities may issue a five-year visa if the passport has has adequate validity remaining.

• What benefits do holders of these extended visas enjoy?

During the validity period of these visas, holders can enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals within the Schengen area, allowing for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

• Which countries are part of the Schengen area?

The Schengen area comprises 29 European countries, including 25 European Union member states: Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland, and Sweden. Additionally, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland are also part of the Schengen area.

• Are there any restrictions or conditions to these visas?

Schengen visas do not grant the right to work within the Schengen area and are for short stays only. Additionally, the visas are not purpose-bound, providing flexibility for travel within the specified period.

Industry Take

Skift also spoke to players in the Indian outbound travel industry to understand what has changed in the new Schengen visa rules.

• How is this different from the earlier visas that Schengen countries offered? Don’t they already offer multi-entry visas with longer duration to Indians?

Mahendra Vakharia, managing director of Pathfinders Holidays, said there was no standard policy of Schengen states for issuing these long-term visas earlier. Switzerland, France, Netherlands, Italy and Spain usually issued long-term visa, but it was all subjective. “With this new policy it should be a standard rule now,” Vakharia said.

• Travelers mainly complain of longer processing times, has that changed?

Here too, there is no standard processing time as it varies from country to country, according to Vakharia. “France and Spain have been processing visas within four days, and then there’s Croatia, which takes 60 days,” he said.

Processing time will not change as of now, it will take time for the visa rules to be enforced, said an industry source, while highlighting that the visa would be especially useful for corporate travelers.

What Promoted The Move?

Speaking on the possible motivations, Vakharia acknowledged various reasons, including administrative capacity constraints at embassies to cater to the huge inflow of applications.

“As there is an overwhelming demand from Indian travelers, the process of securing visa appointments has posed significant challenges , especially for travelers residing in cities lacking VFS Global centers,” he said.

The European Commission said in an statement that the decision reflects the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, aimed at fostering comprehensive cooperation on migration policy. Facilitating people-to-people contacts is a key aspect of this agenda, acknowledging India’s importance as an EU partner.

The decision also reflects a realization of the strong economic benefits derived through the spending power of Indian tourists. As Vakharia aptly puts it, “Why let go of the Golden Indian Goodie Bag?”

Skift India Report

The Skift India Report is your go-to newsletter for all news related to travel, tourism, airlines, and hospitality in India.

Have a confidential tip for Skift? Get in touch

Tags: asia monthly , europe , european commission , European summer travel , european union , india , india outbound , schengen , visa , visas

Photo credit: Park Guell in Spain. Unlike many Schengen countries, Spain has been processing visas within four days for Indian travelers. Mehmet Turgut Kirkgoz / Pexels

How To Improve The Odds Your Travel Visa Application Will Be Approved

C itizens of countries with powerful passports are quite privileged, with some never having to apply for a visa in their lifetime, much less worry about it being rejected. This is because some of the world's most powerful passports allow their holders to enter over 180 destinations visa-free.

With 195 countries in the world, those with powerful passports by no means allow free access to every country. There are cases where you will definitely need to apply for a visa. In some cases, "applying" for a visa is as simple as showing up at the airport and getting a stamp in your passport or paying a small fee when you pass through immigration.

In other cases, it can be a bit more complicated. If you are a U.S. citizen, you may need to apply for a visa for countries like India, Brazil, and Australia well in advance of your trip, and there is always a chance that your visa application may be rejected. However, we have some tips and tricks for you to follow that may improve the odds that your visa application will be approved.

Timing Is Everything When It Comes To Visas

Applying for a visa can give us travelers anxiety. You either need to wait to book flights, hotels, and excursions until after it's approved (which can take many weeks) or risk paying cancelation fees for everything if your visa is rejected. So, it should go without saying that you need to do your research in advance of deciding to go somewhere to determine if a visa is needed and, if it is, how long it takes to acquire said visa. Don't apply at the last minute and hope for the best.

Another aspect of your application timing you will need to check on is your passport expiration date. If your passport expires within six months of your travel dates, it's almost guaranteed that your visa application will be rejected, regardless of the country. This is a pretty universal rule and one you should follow regardless of whether you're applying for a visa. In fact, most countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is within six months of expiring.

You will also need to consider the duration of your tourist visa and ensure your travel plans start and end on the appropriate dates. You do not want to overstay your visa and risk fines, jail time, and deportation. You also will never be allowed back into the country if you're caught overstaying.

Use A Travel Visa Service Or Book Your Trip With A Travel Agency

When it comes to visas, sometimes it's better just to leave it to the professionals. For many countries with a strict, complicated, or lengthy visa application process, some companies offer travel visa expediting services to assist you with the process. For example, G3 is a popular visa expediting service that offers travelers the ability to apply for visas for a fee. The cost depends on your nationality and where you are applying for a visa but typically ranges in the hundreds of collars.

In other cases, like U.S. citizens traveling to Bhutan or Cuba, you can only apply for a visa as part of a tour package. For travel to these countries, it might be easier for you to book your trip with a tour group and apply for your visa with that agency or company. You might have to pay an additional service fee on top of the application fee, but taking the hassle of applying for a visa out of your hands will be worth it.

Read this next: Hotel Reservation Mistakes You Didn't Know You Were Making

The Economic Times daily newspaper is available online now.

Sri lanka launches new e-visa system: everything you need to know.

Sri Lanka launched an e-visa system, streamlining the visa application process for travellers. The initiative offers updated requirements, fees, and validity periods, enhancing efficiency and convenience for various nationalities visiting for tourism, business, or transit.

• Police Clearance report.
• If the applicant has stayed in another country for more than 6 months, a Police clearance from that country and a copy of the Visa.
• Certificate from a Sri Lankan guarantor & a photocopy of the guarantor's NIC.
• Affidavit from a Sri Lankan JP (Justice of Peace) or a Lawyer.
• Accommodation information (Place of stay).
• Visit the official website of Sri Lanka eVisa.
• Create an account or log in if you already have one.
• Fill out the online application form with accurate details.
• Upload the required documents, including a scanned copy of your passport, a recent photograph, and any additional documents specified for your eVisa category.
• Pay the eVisa fee securely online using the available payment options.
• Once your application is submitted and payment is confirmed, you will receive an acknowledgment receipt and a unique application reference number.
• Track the status of your eVisa application online using your reference number.
• Upon approval, download and print your eVisa to present to the Immigration officer at the port of entry in Sri Lanka.
• A printed copy of your eVisa approval letter issued by the Sri Lanka Department of Immigration and Emigration.
• Your passport with a validity of at least six months from the date of entry into Sri Lanka.
• A return ticket or proof of onward travel from Sri Lanka.

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