What is a US Visa?

People travelling from countries that do not qualify for visa-free entry to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) need a visa to enter the USA. This visa must be stamped in your passport, and the issuing officer will determine its validity. Depending on your profile, this validity can range from 6 months to a maximum of 10 years. US visas come in two main categories: Immigration and Non-Immigration Visas. Since most US Visa applications from India involve temporary stays, this guide focuses on Non-Immigrant Visas (NIV).

How do you apply for a US Visa from India?

Getting a US Visa from India involves a detailed process. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the US visa application process:

1. Determine Visa Type: Before applying, determine the specific visa type you need based on your purpose of travel.
2. Required Documents: Gather all the necessary documents for your application.
3. Complete DS-160 Form: Fill out the Non-Immigrant Visa (NIV) application online using the DS-160 form.
4. Pay Visa Fees: Pay the required US visa fees online.
5. Submit Application: After payment, submit your application. You’ll receive a fee receipt and DS-160 confirmation via email.
6. Schedule Visa Appointments: Use the DS-160 application barcode and visa fee receipt number to schedule two appointments: one at VAC for biometric submission and the other at a US Embassy or Consulate-General for a visa interview.
7. Biometric Submission: Attend the VAC appointment with your passport, appointment confirmation, and DS-160 confirmation pages.
8. Visa Interview: Attend the visa interview at a US Embassy or Consulate with your supporting documents, appointment confirmation letter, and VAC-stamped DS-160 confirmation page.

Note: Visa interviews and biometrics are mandatory for individuals aged 14 to 80. If your US visa expired in the last 12 months and you’re travelling under the same visa type, you may not need an interview.

It’s crucial to accurately complete the DS-160 form as you cannot change it later. Providing incorrect or false information could result in visa denial or delays, and the US government takes visa rejections seriously.

US Visa Types:

Based on the purpose and eligibility of your visit, several Non-Immigrant visas are issued to enter the USA. Common US Visa types applied for by Indians include:

1. US Tourist Visa (B2): For holidays, visiting friends or family, etc.
2. US Business Visa (B1): For business meetings, conferences, and related activities.
3. US Student Visa (F1): For educational purposes.
4. US Work Visas (H1-B, L1, J1, I, P): For various types of work and professions.
5. US Dependent Visas (H4, F2, L2, etc.): For dependents of US Visa holders.
6. Trainee Visa (H3): For non-employment training programs.
7. Media and Journalists Visa (I): For media personnel on work assignments.
8. Artists/Entertainers/Athletes Visa (P): For professionals in these fields.
9. Extraordinary Ability Visa (O1): For individuals with exceptional abilities in various domains.
10. Exchange Visitor Visa (J1): For participants in exchange programs.
11. Intracompany Transferees Visa (L1): For employees transferred within a company.
12. US Transit Visa (C1): For travellers transiting through the US.
13. Crew Visa (D): For aircraft or ship crew members.

Documents Required for US Visa for Indians:

While specific document requirements vary by visa type, the essential documents needed for a US Visa application from India include:

• A passport with at least six months of validity from the intended travel date.
• Two recent passport-sized photos.
• DS-160 application confirmation page.
• Visa fee payment receipt.
• Proof of the purpose of your visit.
• Proof of employment or study.
• Proof of financial means.

US Visa Photo Requirements:

As per US Visa requirements for Indian citizens, the following photo specifications are part of the requirement:

• Dimensions: 50mm X 50mm.
• Colour: Colored.
• Recently taken.
• Background: Plain white.
• Must cover 70% of your face.
• Neutral facial expression.
• Eyes are directed towards the camera and are wide open.
• Glasses are allowed for medical reasons only.
• No uniforms except for religious reasons.
• Headgear is allowed only for religious reasons.
• Facial hair is permitted.

US Visa Fees:

US Visa application fees vary based on factors such as visa type, urgency, and additional charges. Here are some examples of US Visa fees:

US Visa Processing Time:

The processing time for a US Visa typically takes 7-10 working days after submission. However, this can vary based on embassy workload, visa type, and urgency. Due to high demand, visa interview appointments can be challenging to schedule, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance.

Where to Apply:

US Visa applications from India must be submitted online. However, it would help if you visited a Visa Application Center (VAC) and a US Embassy or Consulate for biometrics and the visa interview, respectively. VACs are all located across India, and visa interviews can be scheduled at the US Embassy in New Delhi or the US Consulate-Generals in Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, or Mumbai.

How to Check US Visa Status:

You can always track your application status online by visiting the portal and using your interview location and DS-160 barcode number. Alternatively, you can email ‘passportstatus@ustraveldocs.com‘ with your passport number. Typically, you’ll receive a notification when your passport is ready for pickup or delivery.