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The DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form, is for temporary travel to the United States, and for K (fiancé(e)) visas. Form DS-160 is submitted electronically to the Department of State website via the Internet. Consular Officers use the information entered on the DS-160 to process the visa application and, combined with a personal interview, determine an applicant’s eligibility for a nonimmigrant visa.

Visa applicants must submit a completed DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application for all nonimmigrant visa categories, including applicants applying for K visas. ( Note:   For K visa cases in process at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate prior to October 7, 2013, review the limited exceptions explained in the FAQs below.) 

Review the Frequently Asked Questions for instructions about using the DS-160.

Access the online DS-160 by clicking: Consular Electronic Application Center website .

Important Notice to Visa Applicants: After you have completed the DS-160, you must take these next steps below:

• Print and keep the DS-160 barcode page. (You will not need to print the full application.)
• You must schedule a visa interview appointment.  (The U.S. Embassy or Consulate does not schedule an appointment for you.) Visit the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  website where you will be interviewed for country-specific instructions.;
• Pay the visa application processing fee . Review country-specific instructions on the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  website.

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B2 Visa - Tourist Visa USA

The US Tourist Visa, more commonly known as the B-2 Visa, is among the most sought-after visas. However, getting a B-2 Visa can be quite tricky without the help of experienced and well-informed visa solicitors.

Legal experts and knowledgeable visa solicitors at IAS can make the process of obtaining a B-2 Visa quick and seamless. If you wish to seek our advice, please feel free to contact us via the online chat or you can also call us at +1 844 290 6312 .

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Page contents:, do you need a visa to visit the usa, what is a b-2 visitor visa, checklist of required documentation for us tourist visa, special documents needed for patients seeking medical treatment through b-2 visa, how to apply for a us b2 visa, preparation for the us b2 visa interview, b-2 visa cost, processing time for b-2 visa, additional information for potential visa applicants, traveling to the usa without a b-2 visa, what happens if my tourist visa expires, how can ias help, frequently asked questions.

Yes, anyone who wishes to enter the US must possess a visa or a similar document that proves that they have been allowed to enter the country by the US government. However, the process, eligibility requirements and documents required for each individual might vary based on their country of origin.

For example, people from 40 countries are allowed to enter the US if they possess an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) visa waiver. This is an alternative to the conventional visa, and under this program, people belonging to any of the countries on the list can reside in the US for up to 90 days without a visa if they provide the necessary supporting documents and pay any associated fees.

In general, you will definitely need prior approval or a B2 Visa to enter the US for tourism, visiting family and friends, getting medical treatment and participating in or attending any kind of social events that are conducted in the US.

The B2 Visitor Visa allows visitors to reside temporarily in the US. At maximum, visitors can be allowed to stay for up to 180 on the B2 Visa, solely based upon the discretion of the US government.

The following are the justifications for traveling on a B2 Visa:

• Taking a vacation or taking part in tourism activities
• Visiting relatives
• Getting medical treatment based on a diagnosis by a local physician in the home country
• Participating in or attending activities, such as concerts or classes, without being compensated or receiving credit
• Taking a quick leisurely study session, like a culinary class

Applicants are not allowed to use this visa to travel for any of the following purposes:

• Long-term undergraduate and graduate studies
• A long-term job with a US company
• Any professional performance, either for money or in front of an audience that is paying
• Joining ship or aircraft work
• Working in journalism, radio, cinema, print, or other informational media as a foreign press reporter.
• Living permanently in the United States

• A passport that is still valid six months after the expected date of return. If it expires any earlier, you will need to first apply for a new passport and then initiate your visa process.
• A current (i.e., not older than six months) and acceptable government-required digital image
• Documentation showing the last five travels, and the visa applications made to the US, if any.
• Evidence showing sufficient finances to pay for the whole trip’s expenditures, including transport, lodging, and living costs
• Evidence of the applicant’s strong links to their nation of origin, such as a job, property, or family members
• Present evidence of income, pay slips, tax payments, ownership of real estate, businesses, or assets
• A medical diagnosis outlining the nature of your condition and why you need treatment in the USA from a local doctor.
• An official letter stating that a doctor or medical facility in the US is willing to treat this particular condition and outlining the expected time and cost of care (including doctor’s fees, hospital fees, and any medical-related costs).
• A declaration of financial accountability from the people or group covering your living, medical, and transportation costs. The parties ensuring payment of these costs must demonstrate their financial stability, frequently by submitting certified copies of their income tax returns or bank or other proofs of income or savings.

Contact our expert immigration lawyers to get assistance for applying your B2 Tourist Visitor Visa Today! Contact Us

Application for a US Tourist Visa can be challenging for passport holders of certain countries but quite seamless for others. The application process for getting the US B-2 Visa entails the following steps:

Filling out the online application

Applicants must first go to the online website of the US Embassy, find the DS-160 form online, and fill it out.

This is a prerequisite, as all applicants must bring a duly filled and printed application form to their interview.

It is also important to bring along a passport-sized photograph that is in line with the requirements, which state that all photographs submitted must be colored and taken within the last six months, with a white background, and 5×5 cm in size.

Booking an interview

Each visa applicant will be given a visa appointment once all the required documents are uploaded.

For individuals who are below the age of 13 and above the age of 80, visa interviews are often not required.

Applicants will be shown a list of available time slots for the interview and they can choose one that suits their needs. It is important to note that the appointment wait time can vary based on the location, the time of year and the kind of visa being applied for. Hence, it is advised to apply for the visa in advance and before booking any travel to the US.

Submitting additional documents

Visa applicants must also present additional documents at the visa interview, which must be prepared in advance. These documents include bank statements, visa application fee payment receipts, invitation letters, a NOC from the current employer and a valid passport.

In some cases, applicants will also be asked to submit their complete itinerary stating the purpose of the visit, when they will depart, when they will return and where they will stay during the entire trip.

The US Tourist Visa interview can be the most intimidating aspect of the entire visa application process, and it is conducted at the local US embassy or the consulate office.

It is advised for applicants to prepare themselves in advance before going to the interview venue so that they are ready to speak with the consular officer and respond to their questions. Provided below are a series of most frequently asked questions by the consular officers.

• How long do you plan to stay?
• Have you been to the US before?
• Where is your permanent residence?
• What is the purpose of your visit?
• Do you currently have friends or family living in the US? If so, where do they live, and what do they do?
• Who will be traveling with you?
• How do you plan to cover the cost of your trip and living expenses during your stay? Will you do it yourself, or will someone sponsor your stay?
• Have you booked your return tickets?
• How can you guarantee that you’ll go back to your own country within the visa validity period?

These are just a few of the possible questions that the consular officer might ask the visa applicant. Based on his or her own understanding, they might ask other questions and request more documents.

In case thinking about such an interview intimidates you, and you feel that you need additional guidance, please feel free to contact our visa advisors at IAS. Use the online chat feature to reach out to us at any time. If you would like to talk with one of our agents right away, you may also phone us at +1 844 290 6312 .

A B-2 Visa requires a $160 filing fee from the government. Visa applicants must note that this cost does not cover the price of compiling additional paperwork and evidence requested by the government or the consular officer, as well as getting passport photographs.

Reach out to our team of experts to discuss your B2 Tourist Visitor Visa requirements and the level of assistance you desire. Contact Us

Currently, there is a two-month wait period for individuals applying for the B-2 Visa. However, the exact waiting period for the interview appointment can vary significantly based on the country and city of the applicant’s residence. Be aware that wait times could be greater if you are applying for an interview in a nation other than your native country.

You can take help to get estimated answers using the State Department Tool offered by the US government’s official website. You can also contact IAS to help you out with managing your US Tourist Visa application to make the whole process effortless. Reach out to us using the live chat or call us at +1 844 290 6312 .

The Visa Waiver Program for Applicants From 40 Countries

Passport holders of around 40 countries have been allowed to enter the US to visit or tour the country without a visa. This program is called the Visa Waiver Program. This means that these individuals will not need to apply for the B-2 Visa and go through the process explained in the previous sections of this article. The complete list of the participating countries can be found on the official website of the US government.

However, these individuals must also provide certain supporting documents that must be submitted no later than 72 hours before the expected date of travel, which include:

• A machine-readable passport that consists of biographical and other information, a digital chip and biometric information
• A return ticket from the airline approved by the Visa Waiver Program
• Proof of payment of $21 is required for receiving the ESTA.

The entire application process should not take more than 20 to 30 minutes if you have all the documents ready beforehand. Visitors must also remember that they cannot use this service if they wish to stay for longer than 90 days in the US.

Electronic Visa Update System for Chinese Passport Holders

Electronic Visa Update System (EVUS) was created to enable visitors visiting the United States to give immigration officials their most up-to-date personal data, such as name, passport number, residence and employment status.

Chinese nationals with a 10-year B1, B2 (Visit Visa), or both (B1 & B2) visas frequently update their basic biographic information on the EVUS in order to speed up their journey to the US. Such travelers will need to join the EVUS in order to enter the United States, in addition to having a passport, valid visa and other required documents.

To enroll in the EVUS, the applicant must have a passport issued by the People’s Republic of China, a valid B1/B2 Visa 10-year visa and internet access.

The traveler must fill out an EVUS enrollment form with their name, birthdate, emergency contact information, passport information, biographical information, and employment information. Additionally, queries on eligibility for travel will be asked of travelers. A traveler’s EVUS enrolment can, however, be submitted on their behalf by a friend, relative, member of the travel industry, or other third party. Travelers are accountable for the veracity and accuracy of any information provided on their behalf.

Begin your journey to the USA today! Contact IAS to discuss your B2 Tourist Visa application. Contact Us

In order to travel to the United States, you must possess a valid visa or similar permission from the government that allows you to enter and remain in the country for tourism purposes.

Only visa holders and individuals with an ESTA will be allowed to enter the country. If you travel without a valid visa or ESTA, you will be denied boarding by the airline crew at the airport.

There are multiple situations in which this can happen. Your visa can expire before you even travel to the US. In most cases, the B2 visa is valid for up to 10 years. This means that once you get the visa, you can enter the country anytime within the 10-year time frame. However, you can only stay in the country for a period of six months.

However, certain unforeseen incidents can cause you to delay your trip. In that case, if you exceed the given 10-year period, you will have to re-apply for the new visa and go through the entire visa process again.

Another situation is where you might enter the US with a valid B2 Visa, but you overstay due to one or more valid reasons. In such a case, you must apply to extend visa validity.

B2 Visa holders may apply for a continuance of stay to remain in the United States past the initial visa’s expiration date. You are allowed to request an extension for a maximum of six months. The Form I-539 must be presented in order to request an extension or modify the status.

Acquiring a US Tourist Visa undoubtedly entails a lengthy and intimidating process that can make one feel hopeless or lost. In such a scenario, it is always advisable to take help from experienced visa solicitors to make the entire process easy and hassle-free.  IAS offers detailed help for our customers who are trying to apply for a US Tourist Visa.

Our consultants will make sure that all your documents are complete and that you are completely ready for the interview so that you are not denied the visa. IAS can also help with applying for visa extensions and addressing other similar legal matters. Reach out to us using the live chat or call us at +1 844 290 6312 .

Last modified on August 29th, 2023 at 9:20 am

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Related pages for your continued reading.

Immigration attorneys, u.s citizenship, british citizenship, spouse visa uk, j1 visa (exchange visitor visa), what is the cost of a b2 visa extension.

The cost of a visa extension is $370 and an additional fee of $85 must also be paid as a biometric service fee.

What is the difference between a US Tourist Visa and a Student Visa?

The US Tourist Visa is for people who wish to visit the country for a short duration (i.e., six months). On the contrary, the student visa allows people to pursue educational courses, and the validity of the student visa depends on the duration of the course.

Which of the visas is best for me: B1 or B2 or the ESTA?

You can only apply for the ESTA if you are eligible for it based on the list of participating countries. You may, however, apply for a B1 visa if you are going for a business trip or a B2 visa if you are going for a short visit or for tourism purposes.

© 2024 Immigration Advice Service LTD. OISC Registration Number - F201100299. Our Flagship London Immigration Lawyer office is open for business as usual.

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U.S. Travelers Will Soon Have to Pay to Enter the U.K.

By Sarah James

U.S. visitors—as well as visitors from Europe , Australia and Canada —will soon be required to apply for permission to enter the U.K. through a new scheme known as Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

The U.K. government is in the process of fully digitizing U.K. borders by the end of 2025—and the ETA scheme will play its part, allowing “individuals, and carriers, with more assurance at an earlier point in time about their ability to travel to the U.K.,” the government said.

The scheme will be in place by the end of this year (2023), and visitors will be required to fill out an online application granting them permission to travel. There will be a small fee included in the application—similar to how the U.S.'s own ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) system works for U.K. travelers.

Here's everything we know.

Will I need a visa to enter the U.K.?

This isn't technically a visa—the ETA system will grant travelers permission to enter the country. You will need to apply for an ETA prior to arrival. If you haven't received permission to travel before arrival, you may get fined.

Travelers from the U.S. will soon need to apply for permission to enter the U.K.

How long will it take to get an ETA?

Travelers will be advised to apply for an ETA at least a few days before their journey. Approval should be granted within 72 hours of application.

How long will an ETA last?

After your ETA has been approved, visitors will be granted permission to stay in the U.K. for six months, whether for business or tourism reasons.

The U.K. government is yet to confirm how often visitors will need to apply for a new ETA, but it's likely to be valid for two years—meaning there's no need to apply for a new one every time you visit within the valid time period.

Visitors with valid ETAs can stay—and travel—in U.K. for up to six months.

How much will an ETA cost?

We don't know yet—but the government has said that the cost will be small. The EU implemented a similar system in 2022, which costs €7. A U.S. ESTA, meanwhile, costs $21.

Who will need to apply for an ETA?

The full list of nations included hasn't been announced yet. We do know that U.S. citizens who don't hold a visa will need to apply for an ETA, as will other visa-exempt nations such as Canada and Australia. European countries are likely to be included, too.  Those traveling from nationalities without a visa-free agreement with the UK will still need to apply for another applicable type of UK visa.

What will I need to apply for an ETA?

You'll need a valid passport , an email address to register with, and to supply the details of your travel, as well as a valid debit or credit card to pay any fees to apply.

To keep up to date with the latest information on the ETA scheme, check the official website for more details as they become available.

This article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller U.K.  

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Visas for U.S. citizens traveling abroad

If you are a U.S. citizen planning to travel abroad, you may need a visa to enter a foreign country. Learn how to find your destination's visa requirements.

While not all countries require visas for American travelers, many do. Look up your destination using the U.S. State Department's Learn About Your Destination search tool . On the country’s information page, you will find entry, exit, and visa requirements. You will also find travel advisories and a link to the country’s embassy.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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Apply for a UK visa in the USA

Updated 24 April 2023

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This publication is licensed under the terms of the Open Government Licence v3.0 except where otherwise stated. To view this licence, visit nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3 or write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: [email protected] .

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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/usa-apply-for-a-uk-visa/apply-for-a-uk-visa-in-the-usa

To apply for a UK visa in the USA you need to:

• apply online
• pay your fee
• book and attend your biometric appointment
• Attend an Application Support Center ( ASC )
• mail your application

Apply online

Apply online to complete your application and pay your fee.

Book and attend your biometric appointment

Once you have completed your online application you will be prompted to book a biometric enrolment appointment at an ASC . This is to have your photo and fingerprints taken (known as ‘biometric information’).

Alternatively, you can attend a VFS Premium Application Centre (PAC) to provide your biometric information and submit your application. If you choose to attend a VFS PAC , you will need to purchase a Premium Service.

Attending an ASC

You can only attend your ASC appointment on your scheduled date and time. If you arrive on a different date or time, you will not be processed. Do not arrive more than 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment.

When you visit the ASC for your biometric appointment, you must take your current valid passport and a copy of your appointment confirmation letter, which will be sent by VFS Global when you book your appointment.

Cell phones, cameras, and other recording devices are not permitted inside the ASC .

When arriving at the ASC , you must:

• wear a face covering. Face coverings will not be provided to applicants. All individuals not wearing a face covering will not be allowed entry
• not bring additional individuals or family members with you to your appointment. Only interpreters, attorneys, or those providing needed assistance to you will be permitted to accompany you
• follow social distancing guidance when you arrive, such as sitting and standing apart from others
• not come to your appointment if you are sick or start to feel symptoms of being sick. If you or someone with you appears ill during your appointment, the ASC may require that you reschedule your appointment
• check the operating status of our offices on the day of your appointment

Visa application process for children under 5

Children under the age of 5 applying for a UK visa from within the United States must attend an appointment at an ASC or a PAC. At the appointment, they will have their photograph taken but will not be required to provide their fingerprints.

Mail your application

Once your appointment confirmation letter is stamped at the ASC , you will have 5 days to mail this, your application form, current passport, UPS return shipping label, and any supporting documents (if you haven’t uploaded them online) to:

VFS Services USA Inc. UKVI Scanning Hub 128 East 32nd St Floor 4 New York NY 10016

All applications must include your current passport with at least one blank visa page on both sides. If your application is submitted without a passport the application will be refused.

The 5 working day priority or 15 working day standard service for processing your UK visa application will only begin once these documents have been received at the above address.

Return shipping

To have your passport or any other documents returned, you must provide a fully addressed UPS prepaid electronic shipping label as we cannot accept non-electronic shipping labels. You must your return shipping label is inside the package, and to keep a copy of the shipping label for your records.

Coronavirus advice for entering the UK

If you are travelling to the UK, you should check what you need to do before you travel and any changes at the UK border .

Read guidance on immigration conditions if you have been affected by travel restrictions because of coronavirus.

You can contact our international contact service provided by Teleperformance who work in partnership with UKVI .

Calls from outside the UK cost £0.69 per minute (plus the local network charge) to call UKVI .

Emails from outside the UK cost £2.74. This includes the initial email enquiry plus any follow-up emails to and from the contact centre relating to the same enquiry. Emails are sent using an online form on our website.

Our English language phone line service is open 24 hours Monday to Friday, with other languages available at times that reflect standard business hours where possible.

Teleperformance staff do not play any part in, or influence the outcome of visa applications. They can provide help with navigating the UKVI guidance online. They cannot provide immigration advice.

Make a complaint

Letters or emails about decisions to refuse a UK visa will not be treated as complaints. If you do not agree with the decision on your visa application, please use the existing appeals channels.

If you have a complaint about how your visa application has been handled, or the conduct of UKVI staff you should read our complaints procedure .

Alternatively, you can send your complaint by email using our international contact service .

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US Visitor Visa for UK Citizens

If you are planning on visiting the United States from the UK temporarily, you will need a US Visitor Visa or some other form of immigration permission. Here is information on requirements and how to apply for a US Visitor visa from the UK.

Call us on 0333 305 9375 for assistance with applying. We provide immigration services that help UK citizens acquire US Visas.

Request a call back from our immigration experts

Page contents.

• What is ESTA?
• Types of the US Visit Visa?
• Requirements for UK citizens
• Required and supporting documents
• How to apply from the UK
• Cost and Processing times
• US Visitor Visa help

Frequently Asked Questions

Visiting the united states from the uk.

If you wish to travel to the United States temporarily, you can apply for a visitor visa. A US Visitor Visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows people from the UK and other countries to enter the United States for six months.

This visa is a temporary visa that allows holders to travel to the United States and stay for up to 180 days at most in a year. This non-immigrant visa is typically valid for up to 120 months.

British citizens can travel to the US for leisure or certain business purposes on visitor nonimmigrant visas for 180 days at a time. However, if you are staying for 90 days or less, you can visit the US on ESTA instead of a visa because the UK participates in the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP).

If you need more information or help with successfully applying to come to the US on a valid visa as a temporary visitor, contact our immigration lawyers. Call us on 0333 305 9375 today

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What Is An ESTA?

ESTA stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorization. The US ESTA allows citizens of the UK to visit the US for tourism, transit or business. It’s easier and quicker as you can get it within 24 hours after submitting the ESTA online application form.

The US ESTA is valid for 2 years and allows UK nationals to stay in the UK for up to 90 days without a visa. Also, it can be used for return visits.

Along with the UK, 38 countries are also in the VWP. Citizens of those countries can apply for an ESTA as well.

The application process is easy; once you begin, you must complete it in seven days or your progress will be deleted. To apply, you will:

• Accept the disclaimers
• Provide your valid passport
• Provide biographical and other information
• List travel arrangements
• Answer yes/no eligibility questions
• Review and confirm provided information
• Pay the $14 processing fee
• Submit your application
• Await decision

You can print or download a PDF version of the above for your records.

If you change your name, gender, citizenship, passport, or answers in the ESTA form, you must apply for a new ESTA.

Types Of US Visitor Visa

If you wish to travel to the United States on a nonimmigrant Visitor visa, there are three categories:

B1 Business Visitor Visa

The B1 Visitor visa is a nonimmigrant visa that permits holders to visit the US temporarily for some business activities. The permitted activities for business travellers visiting the US include:

• Attending business, educational, scientific or professional conventions, conferences, or seminars
• Negotiating contracts
• Attending business meetings
• Attending sessions/handling disputes in court
• Consulting with business associates
• Engaging in unpaid voluntary work

B2 Visa or Tourist Visitor Visa

The B2 visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows you to travel to the US for tourism, pleasure, medical treatment, or visiting. These are some of the permitted activities on the B2 visa:

• Visiting friends or relatives
• Receiving medical treatment (where there’s a confirmed diagnosis and a letter from a medical facility in the US treatment).
• Unpaid amateurs participating in musical, sports and similar events or contests

A B1/B2 Visa is a non-immigrant visa that permits the visa holders to partake in both the permitted activities under the B-1 and B2 visas.

If you are unsure if your activity is covered under any of the US visitor visas, contact an immigration lawyer for assistance. Call us on 0333 305 9375 .

Visitor Visa Requirements

Each visitor visa category has specific requirements that you must meet to demonstrate your eligibility. However, there are some general requirements, they include that you:

• Must have a legitimate reason to enter the U.S
• Have enough money to cover your activities and support yourself throughout the duration of your stay
• Intent to leave the US after a limited period of stay
• Have strong ties with the UK and have plans to go back home
• You aren’t planning on giving birth in the U.S (birth tourism)

In addition, the US Visitor nonimmigrant visas do not permit holders to earn a degree while in the US or be employed. Although you can take on some short voluntary activities, you cannot take on paid work. If you are to study, it must not be the main reason for your coming and it must be a short recreational course, for example, a 1-day cooking class while on vacation.

Required Documents For The US Visitor Visa

Like with applying for any US Visas, UK citizens must provide some required documents to demonstrate that they meet the eligibility requirements. They include the following documents:

• A valid British passport
• A passport-sized photograph
• Filled form DS-160
• Evidence of your ties and intention to return to the UK, for example, letters from your employer or property ownership documents)
• Proof that you can support yourself and cover all your expenses during your visit
• Documents detailing the purpose of your travel to the US

You may need to present additional documents depending on your reason for applying for a US visitor visa from the UK. For example, if you are applying for a b2 visa because you’re seeking medical treatment, then you must provide evidence of a medical diagnosis from a licensed physician that proves your need for treatment in the US, a letter from the facility in the US that is to treat you with details on your treatment and hospitalization fees, and proof of financial support, including to cover the medical-related expenses.

Get in touch with our expert immigration lawyers to learn how to apply for a US visitor visa. Contact us

How To Apply For A US Visitor Visa From The UK

To apply for any of the US visitor visas from the UK, you must begin by completing the online visa application form (Form DS-160). After you have submitted that, ensure you print the confirmation page as you will need that for your interview.

Upload your photograph and pay the visa application fee. After you have paid visa fees, you can schedule an interview with a consular officer in the U.S. Embassy in London or the Consulate General in Belfast. The visa interview is compulsory for visa applicants between the ages of 14 and 79.

Take the confirmation page of your DS-160 and the required and supporting documents with you for your interview. At the embassy or consulate, a staff will collect, enter, and review your visa application and your biometric information (fingerprints and photograph).

Afterwards, you will meet with a consular officer who will ask you a few questions to determine your eligibility.

Cost And Processing Times Of The US Visitor Visas

Cost of a b1/b2 visa.

The B1 and B2 visitor visas cost $160. This fee is not refundable and must be paid during the visa application process.

Processing times of the B1 & B2 Visa?

Successful B1 & B2 applications from the UK take 3-5 workdays to process. After your business or tourist visa interview, expect a 5-7 work-day window to allow for delivery via courier.

There’s no way to accelerate the processing of your visa for a faster time. If you are in a hurry, apply for an ESTA.

If your application is successful, you will get your UK passport back and your B1/B2 visa. If your application is denied, you will get your UK passport back along with notification of refusal, and you can reapply.

How Can Total Law Help UK Citizens Visit The United States?

Our team of immigration lawyers are experienced in assisting UK citizens and residents with obtaining a United States visitor visa. We are ready to assist you with any visa or immigration matter.

Whether you want assistance with applying for a visa or advice on the right visa route for your particular circumstances, we can help you through custom immigration packages that meet your exact needs. We provide support and advice in these aspects:

• Immigration to the US from the UK
• Assessing your eligibility for a visitor visa
• Providing advice on your visitor and other immigration options
• Filing a visa application for you
• Ensuring that all your documentation and forms are submitted with the highest of standards
• Helping with gathering documents and evidence of eligibility
• Guiding you through a visa interview
• Liaising with the USCIS on your behalf

For more information about how we can help you travel to and visit the United States from the United Kingdom, please give us a call or contact us online. You can call us on 0333 305 9375 or send an email to [email protected] .

Advice Package

Comprehensive immigration advice tailored to your circumstances and goals.

Application Package

Designed to make your visa application as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Fast Track Package

Premium application service that ensures your visa application is submitted to meet your deadline.

Appeal Package

Ensure you have the greatest chance of a successful appeal. We will represent you in any case.

The Advice Package

During this untimed Advice Session with our professional immigration lawyers in London, you will receive our comprehensive advice, completely tailored to your needs and your situation.

The Application Package

With our Application Package, your dedicated immigration lawyer will advise you on your application process and eligibility. Your caseworker will then complete and submit your forms to the Home Office on your behalf.

The Fast Track Package

Our Fast-Track Application Package is a premium service for those who need to submit their application in time with their deadlines. Your case will become a top priority for our lawyers and you will benefit from our highest-quality services.

The Appeal Package

By choosing our Appeal Package, you can rely on our lawyers’ legal knowledge and experience to ensure you have the highest chance of a successful appeal. We will also fully represent you in any hearings/tribunals.

If you wish to find out which of the U.S. family visas is best for you, the Total Law team is happy to assist. Learn more

Related pages for your continued reading.

K4 child visa, k1 fiance visa, family based green cards, spouse immigrant visa, us citizenship, do i need a visa to travel to the usa from the uk.

You don’t need a visa to visit the USA from the UK. The UK is part of the US visa waiver program, so you can apply for an ESTA online and travel to the US with that. An ESTA allows you to stay in the US for up to 90 days.

However, UK visitors that want to stay in the United States for more than 90 days will have to apply for a visa. Depending on your intentions, tourist visas or family visas may be appropriate. You can check this website for more visas.

For advice on the best immigration route for your circumstances, contact us today. Call us on 0333 305 9375 .

Can I switch from a US Visitor Visa to another visa?

You may be able to apply for a change in your nonimmigrant status if your situation changes. For example, if you marry a US citizen, you may be eligible for a K3 Spouse visa .

If you make an application while in the US to the USCIS, you will not need to apply for a new visa, but must do so once you leave the US. The United States government does not allow foreign citizens to return without a valid visa.

How can I pass my visa interview?

The following tips may be you pass your visa interview during your interview appointment at the US Embassy or Consulate in your home country:

• Prove your ties to the UK
• Prove that you will return to the UK
• Provide all necessary and supporting documents
• Ensure you don’t and haven’t gone against immigration laws

In addition, be concise, truthful, and confident when answering the interview questions.

What visa interview questions should I expect?

The US visa interview questions you may be asked will depend on the consular officers. They may include:

• Do you have family or friends living in the US?
• What plans have you made for travelling to the US?
• What’s the nature of your visit?
• How will you pay for your trip?
• What do you do for a living?
• How much money do you earn?
• What family do you have in your home country?
• What assurances can you give that you won’t overstay your visa in the US?

Disclaimer: Total Law operates under different capacities in the various countries we cover, including as immigration consultants or lawyers; We connect clients with our network of immigration lawyers if we are not registered as a law firm in a particular country

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Ireland considers terminating visa-free entry for SA passport holders

Ireland is considering revoking its visa-free travel attangements with South Africa.

South African passport holders have eased entry to over 100 countries. However, this may change if Ireland excludes SA from its visa-abolition agreements.

Ultimately, this is bad news for South African passport holders, who stand to lose a  visa-free destination .

IRELAND VISA-FREE TRAVEL

In 2009, the United Kingdom introduced visa-requirements for South African passport holders.

It cited raised safety issues resulting from the misuse of South African passports.

The Republic of Ireland, however, did not end its visa-free entry scheme for South Africa.

Nonetheless, the privilege might end soon if Ireland revokes the visa-free entry arrangement.

VISA-FREE ENTRY FOR SOUTH AFRICA

Schengenvisainfo  reports that Ireland will discuss ending its visa-free travel scheme with South Africa.

Ireland’s ministers will discuss axing the arrangement so Ireland can tighten up immigration.

Ireland’s Department of Justice says 198 asylum seekers arrived in Ireland on South African passports this year.

ASYLUM SEEKERS ENTER IRELAND

The scrapping of visa-free travel for South Africans comes after alleged abuse of the arrangement by individuals entering Ireland, seeking protection. 

According to the  Irish Times  nationals of Zimbabwe and the Democratic Republic of Congo are using South African passports to enter the country.

IRELAND TO SCRAP VISA-FREE ENTRY SCHEME

Ireland will consider implementing visa requirements for South African nationals to reduce the number of people applying for protection and asylum.

Irish Justice Minister Helen McEntee stated that over 80% of international protection applicants entered the country through Northern Ireland.

This number represents over three percent of the country’s total asylum applicants in 2024.

CHOOSING IRELAND OVER UK

Meanwhile,  The Guardian  reports that the increase in asylum seekers heading to Ireland proves that Britain’s Rwanda plan is already working.

Britain’s prime minister says that the new Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Act is already deterring migrants.

Irish deputy prime minister, Micheál Martin, said the threat of deportation to Rwanda led to people coming to the Republic of Ireland.

The post Ireland considers terminating visa-free entry for SA passport holders appeared first on SAPeople - Worldwide South African News .