us tourist visa interview waiver india

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Us consolidates visitor visa interview waiver appointments in new delhi.

US Embassy in India updates visa procedures, focusing on B-1/B-2 interview waivers in New Delhi. Nonimmigrant B-1/B-2 visas can be processed at multiple centers across India. The US Consular Team processed a record 1.4 million US visas in 2023.

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Update: US Embassy India Offers B1/B2 Visa Interview Waiver Appointments

The us embassy in india announced changes to b1/b2 visa waivers and interview appointments, centralizing interview waivers in new delhi to streamline the process. eligible applicants can submit documents at various centers, avoiding new delhi visits unless necessary. this move aims to ease visa application logistics and speed up approvals..

Key Takeaways:

• B1/B2 visas allow temporary visits for business or tourism in the US for up to 10 years.
• US Embassy in India consolidates B1/B2 interview waiver appointments in New Delhi, streamlining the process for eligible applicants.
• The change aims to make visa applications more efficient, with centralized appointments potentially expediting visa approval timelines.

In a recent announcement that surely delighted many travelers and businessmen alike, the US Embassy in India revealed significant changes regarding B1/B2 Visa waivers and interview appointments. This blog post delves into the critical aspects of this announcement, providing invaluable insights for those looking to travel to the United States for business or tourism.

What are B1/B2 Visa Waivers?

Before we dive into the announcement details, let’s understand what B1 and B2 visas are. A B1/B2 Visa is a non-immigrant visa that enables foreign nationals to enter the United States temporarily for business (B1), tourism (B2), or a combination of both purposes. These visas are generally valid for up to 10 years, allowing travelers to stay in the U.S. for up to 180 days per visit. Importantly, from March 2023, holders of B1 or B2 visas can also apply for jobs in the U.S. and attend interviews, albeit they cannot undertake employment in the traditional sense.

Critical Announcement from the US Embassy in India

On April 2, 2024, the US Embassy in India made a pivotal announcement regarding the consolidation of B1/B2 interview waiver appointments in New Delhi. To clarify, applicants will still be free to submit their application forms at any of the five Visa application centers across India or choose to pay a nominal fee of Rs 850 per application for documentation submission at specific locations in Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chandigarh, Cochin, Jalandhar, and Pune.

This consolidation means that interview waiver appointments will primarily be available in New Delhi for eligible applicants seeking a visitor visa. However, there’s no need for unnecessary travel; applicants only need to visit New Delhi if they are found ineligible for the interview waiver process.

What Does This Mean for Applicants?

Due to this consolidation, interview waiver appointments for visitor visas in cities other than New Delhi—namely Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai—have become scarce. Nonetheless, eligible candidates still have a straightforward path to securing their visitor visas through readily available appointments in New Delhi.

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A particularly noteworthy mention was made for applicants with bookings made before November 15, 2023. These individuals are advised to proceed with their planned appointment, armed with their corrected DS-160 confirmation page. Conversely, those whose appointments were scheduled on or after November 15, 2023, need to bring both the revised and original DS-160 confirmation pages to the Visa Application Center or document drop-off location on their appointment day. Failing to present both confirmation pages necessitates canceling and rescheduling the appointment with the updated DS-160 application number.

Why is This Change Significant?

This move by the US Embassy in India aims to streamline the visa application process, making it more efficient for both the embassy and applicants. By centralizing interview waiver appointments in New Delhi, the process becomes more organized, potentially speeding up the turnaround time for visa approvals.

Traveling with Ease: Leveraging the B1/B2 Visa Waiver

For travelers and business professionals eager to explore opportunities in the United States, this announcement serves as a beacon of convenience. The ability to bypass the interview process under specific eligibility criteria not only saves time but also reduces the logistical challenges associated with visa procurement.

To stay informed on the most current visa application processes and requirements, visit the official US visa information and appointment services website . This platform provides authoritative and up-to-date information, ensuring travelers have access to the resources they need for successful visa applications.

In conclusion, the US Embassy in India’s recent announcement marks a significant shift in how B1/B2 Visa waivers and interviews are managed, offering a streamlined path for eligible applicants. As always, staying informed and prepared with the required documentation is key to a hassle-free visa application process. Happy traveling!

This Article In A Nutshell:

The US Embassy in India’s recent announcement streamlines B1/B2 Visa procedures. Mainly offering interview waiver appointments in New Delhi, it speeds up the process. Applicants elsewhere may face fewer appointment options. Stay updated via the official US visa site for seamless travel planning. Eligible candidates enjoy a more straightforward visa application journey. Safe travels! — By VisaVerge.com

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Home » Visas » US Visa India » Non-immigrant Visa Interview Waiver

Non-immigrant Visa Interview Waiver for India

Under US visa interview waiver program, certain repeat travelers do not need to appear for in person interview at the US Consulate/Embassy as long as certain conditions as listed below are met.

Eligibility

The following classes of people qualify for Interview Waiver Program “Drop box” program. You don’t need to visit a VAC for fingerprinting, either.

• You are applying for visa in any of the A1, A2, C2, C3, G1, G2, G3, or G4 categories
• You are over the age of 80 years 
• You have not been previously found ineligible for a US visa 
• You are under the age of 14 years 
• Either of your parents have a valid visa in the same visa category in which you (the child) are applying
• The previous US visa you have/had is in the same visa class as the one you wish to renew. 
• Your previous visa was issued in India. 
• You have no refusals for a visa in any category after your most recent visa issuance. 
• Your most recent visa (in the same visa class for which you are applying) was issued on or after your 14 th  birthday. 
• Your prior visa in the same classification is still valid or expired within last 12 months  Note: Blanket L visa does not qualify. However, Blanket L2 spouses are eligible.
• Your most recent visa (in the same visa class for which you are applying) was not lost or stolen 
• Your prior visa is not annotated “Clearance Received” or “Department Authorization”
• You received your visa after January 1, 2008. 
• You are applying for F visa, and you are continuing as a student at the same school for which the previous visa was issued.
• If you are applying for J visa, the current DS-2019 is issued by the same institution as the institution listed on the previous visa.

Application Procedure

Look at US visa application procedure . 

• Follow steps 1, 2, 3, and 4, which includes determination, application form, create a profile, and visa fees. See more about visa fee payment options in India here .
• Your current  passport  
• Your previous passport, if it contains your current or most recent visa 
• One copy of the submission letter 
• One  photograph  taken within the last six months.  Do not submit the same photograph that appeared on your last visa.
• J2 applicants:  Copy of DS-2019 
• H4 and L2 applicants: Copy of I-797 and primary applicant’s visa 
• C1D applicants: Copy of joining letter and original CDC 
• Child applicants should submit photocopies of either of their parents’ valid visas in the same category in which the child is applying
• Take the “drop box” package along with the second print out of the document check list to one of the  visa application centers . They will check your document checklist before they accept your application for delivery to the US Embassy/Consulate.

In case any additional information is required for processing your application, you will be contacted by email.

If your visa is issued, please look at step 8 at at  US visa application procedure

However, please note that there is no guarantee that a visa will be issued. After reviewing an application, the US Embassy/Consulate may require you to appear in person in some cases.

The average processing time is three weeks.

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Us consolidate b1/b2 interview waiver appointments in new delhi.

New Delhi [India], April 2 (ANI): The US Embassy in India has consolidated B1/B2 interview waiver appointments in New Delhi. However, applicants will be able to submit their application forms free of cost at any of the five Visa Application Centers or, for a fee of 850 rupees per application, they can drop the documents at any of the US Document Dropoff Centers located in Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Cochin, Jalandhar, or Pune.

The US Embassy in India, in a post on X wrote, "Planning to book a visitor visa appointment using our convenient interview waiver process? You might notice something new. As part of our continuing effort to streamline visa processing, we've consolidated B1/B2 interview waiver appointments in New Delhi going forward.""You'll still be able to submit your application forms free of cost at any of our five Visa Application Centers. Or, for a fee of 850 rupees per application, you can drop your documents at any of our Document Dropoff Centers located in Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chandigarh, Cochin, Jalandhar, or Pune," the post added.

Adding that the appointments will be readily available in New Delhi for any interview waiver-eligible applicants looking for a visitor visa, the Embassy said, "Because of this consolidation, you will see limited interview waiver appointments available for visitor visas in Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Mumbai. But don't worry, appointments continue to be readily available in New Delhi for any interview waiver-eligible applicants looking for a visitor visa.""You will not be required to travel to New Delhi unless you are later found ineligible to use the interview waiver process," it said.

The US Consular Team in India processed a record 1.4 million US visas in 2023, which is higher than ever, and has brought down the visitor visa appointment wait times by 75 per cent.

The US Embassy and Consulates in India said that Indians now represent one out of every 10 US visa applicants around the world.

"In 2023, the US Embassy and Consulates in India processed a record-smashing 1.4 million US visas. Demand across all visa classes was unprecedented, with a 60 per cent increase in applications compared to 2022. Indians now represent one out of every ten US visa applicants around the world," an official statement read.

Visitor visas (B1/B2) have rebounded to represent the second-highest number of applications in the US Mission's history -- over 7,00,000.

ANI 3rd April 2024, 05:55 GMT+11

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US waives in-person interview requirements for many visa applicants in India, Check details here

The us embassy said that department has also authorized consular officers to waive the in-person interview requirement for certain categories of visa applicants through december 31, 2022..

The US embassy announced that it has resumed visa processing of routine in-person B1/B2 visas appointments in September 2022. It said that these appointments are not placeholder appointments. The department has also authorized consular officers to waive the in-person interview requirement for certain categories of visa applicants through December 31, 2022. 

According to the embassy, this new authorization applies to travelers applying for F, H-1, H-3, H-4, non-blanket L, M, O, P, Q, and academic J visas who were previously issued any type of visa, if they are applying for a visa in their country of nationality or residence. 

This authorization does not apply to applicants who have a previous refusal that was not subsequently waived or overcome, the US embassy said on its website, adding that the applicants who are renewing any visa within 48 months of expiration also continue to be eligible for interview waiver.

Appointment demand for all visa categories is high due to reduced staffing and numerous pandemic-related disruptions since 2020. The embassy also suggested that the wait times for most routine non-immigrant visa appointments, can be lengthy. 

“The consular sections across India are now accepting a limited number of drop box applications for renewals of H, L, C1/D, O, I, F, M, and J visas at our Visa Application Centers. Applicants need to visit the official website----usembassy.gov---to determine whether they are eligible for drop box processing and schedule an appointment for document drop-off," the US embassy said.

It also said that the embassy understand that many visa applicants have paid the visa application processing fee and are still waiting to schedule a visa appointment. Hence, it is working diligently to restore all routine visa operations as quickly and safely as possible.

In the meantime, the US Mission said that it will extend the validity of payments until September 30, 2023 to allow all applicants who were unable to schedule a visa appointment. 

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Planning A Visit To The States? This Is How You Can Apply For A US Visitor Visa From India

Planning to travel to the united states of america this guide on how to apply for a us visa from india is sure to come in handy. read on..

By: Pyusha Chatterjee Published: Aug 18, 2023 05:00 PM UTC

Are you planning to travel to the United States of America but are overwhelmed by the visa application process? If yes, then this guide on how to apply for a US visa from India will surely ease your worries with all the essential information you need.

Applying for a visa is undoubtedly a long process involving a lot of planning and knowledge of the process. And, with an abundance of scattered information, it is difficult to filter out vital details and gather them in one place. This is where our detailed guide will come in handy.

Different types of US visas and other related details

There are two major categories of the US visa — immigrant and nonimmigrant. Regarding the former, the official website reads, “A person who wishes to immigrate to the United States must have a petition approved by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before applying for an immigrant visa. The petition is filed either by a qualified relative or a potential employer at a USCIS office in the United States .”

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The latter is of temporary nature and there are several types of nonimmigrant visas (NIV) that come under the US immigration law based on the purpose of travel. Here are some common types of NIVs:

Business /tourist visa (Type B) Fee: USD 185 This type of visa is for nonimmigrants travelling to the country for either business reasons (B-1) or tourism (B-2), or both (B-1/B-2).

Work visa (Type H, L, O, P, Q) Fee: USD 205 This visa is for people going to the US for a specific duration of work. To obtain this visa, the applicants must have their employers file a petition with US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on their behalf. Once approved, the applicant can then begin applying for the visa.

Student visa (Type F, M) Fee: USD 185 Whether you need an F type or an M type depends upon the course you choose to pursue or the school you wish to attend as a student.

Exchange visitor visa (Type J) Fee: USD 185 This is for people who are part of exchange visitor programmes in the US.

Transit/crewmember Visas (Type C, D) Fee: USD 185 Type C is for those transiting through the US while going to another country. And type D is for crewmembers who work on sea vessels and airlines in the States.

Religious worker visa (Type R) Fee: USD 205 The R-1 visa is for those who wish to travel to the US for religious purposes.

Domestic employment visa (Type B1) Fee: USD 185 This is for those travelling with their employers to carry out domestic duties in the United States of America.

Journalist and media (Type I) Fee: USD 185 The type I visa is for those representing the media who belong to the press, radio, film or print industries. If you are travelling temporarily to work in the United States with respect to your profession as someone from the media, you fall under this category.

Find out more about types of visas here .

What are the eligibility criteria for a US visa?

The candidates should fulfil some general eligibility criteria before they apply for a non-immigrant US visa from India . However, please note these documents won’t alone guarantee the visa, as there are various categories, and each has its own specific requirements.

– Possess an Indian passport with a validity of at least six months beyond the period of stay in the US. – Should be financially sound enough to sustain the duration of stay. – Should have proper medical test reports and should not have any communicable diseases. – Should have an appropriate reason and purpose to travel to the country. – Should not have any criminal background or ongoing cases.

How to apply for a US visa from India?

From choosing your visa type to scheduling an appointment, here’s the step-by-step process of applying for an NIV visa from India.

Identification of visa

The first step is to know the type of visa you need. There are several NIV visas, and the purpose of your travel and other factors would determine the one you should apply for and the documents you must gather to support your application.

Completion of application

It is the most important step of your US visa application. After you have made your visa selection based on your requirements, it is time to fill the Form DS-160 online to book the visa interview appointment at the US embassy or consulate. The information must be filled in correctly and accurately.

You can take these pointers into account while completing the form:

• Other than writing your name in your native language when asked, every detail should be filled in English .
• You will have to restart the whole process if you stop working on it for over 20 minutes unless you have saved the details.
• Note down the Application ID visible on the top right corner of the page, as you will need this ID to access the application again if you close the browser window before completing the form.
• The completed DS-160 application form generates an alpha-numeric barcode confirmation page, which needs to be printed.
• This page is mandatory for the appointment at the Visa Application Center and for the interview at the embassy/consulate.
• After printing the page with the barcode information, you can press ‘back’ and email yourself a copy of the DS-160 in PDF format.

Visa fee payment

Each person applying for a US visa from India has to pay a non-refundable, non-transferable Machine Readable Visa (MRV) application fee, depending on the type of visa being applied for. However, some applicants are exempted from paying the MRV fee. For instance, those travelling for official purposes (A or G visa) are not required to pay the MRV fee.

You can pay your visa fee through NEFT, mobile banking (IMPS system) or deposit cash or cheque at designated banks such as AXIS and Citibank. Remember to carry your collection fee slip when you visit the bank. After making the payment, you will receive a receipt that allows you to schedule your interview appointment.

You can find out more about the process here .

Scheduling appointment

You can log in with your details and schedule your interview after you have paid the application fee. You’ll need to fix two appointments: one for your biometrics at the visa application centre (VAC) and the other for your interview at your chosen embassy or consulate. The VAC appointment needs to be scheduled at least a day before the interview. In cases of emergency, both appointments can be fixed on the same day as well.

The three things that you need to schedule the appointment are your passport, the MRV application fee receipt number and the ten (10) digit barcode number from your DS-160 confirmation page.

The official website says, “DS-160 visa application is valid for one year from the date of submission on the Form.”

Attending the interview

Visit the embassy /consulate on the interview day but refrain from taking friends or relatives along, as no one except the attendee is allowed inside. Electronic devices such as mobiles, cameras, smartwatches and laptops can’t be carried too. Inflammable and sharp objects are banned as well. Don’t take large bags or purses; instead, carry your documents in zip folders or small bags.

Tracking the visa/passport

Usually, the application processing time is about three working days, but the duration could vary under certain situations.

You can track the status of your application here after your interview.

Documents required to apply for a US visa

Please keep the following mandatory documents ready for your US visa interview:

• Passport with at least six months validity beyond your intended US stay
• Form DS-160 confirmation page
• Appointment confirmation page
• One photograph as per US visa specification
• Visa fee receipt

Supporting documents are needed, too, at the time of the interview. However, they depend on the type of visa being applied for and the individual’s circumstances.

For a visitor (B-1/B-2) visa, the following documents must be presented along with the mandatory documents:

• Police clearance certificate
• Birth certificate
• Detailed travel itinerary
• Tax documents
• Bank statement and property-related details
• If employed, a letter from the employer stating your designation, salary, duration of employment, and NOC; salary slips from the last three months
• Business purpose, if any, for the US trip
• If the applicant is a student, then produce the latest school result and educational certificate and evidence of financial support
• If visiting a relative in the US, then bring photocopies of the relative’s proof of status, such as a Green Card or a valid visa

US visa appointment wait time

Generally, the applicants are advised to schedule an appointment for a visa interview at least three months before their travel date. However, due to the ongoing backlog and staffing issues, the wait time for NIV visa applicants is varying widely, from five days to 18 months, depending on the visa category and the location from where the application is being applied. So, it is advisable to initiate the application process and book the appointment as early as possible.

You can find out the estimated wait time for a visa interview on the US State Department’s website .

US visa interview waiver

To mitigate the long wait time for visa appointments, the US Embassy in India has been running an interview waiver programme for those seeking to renew their visa. Under this process, an applicant applying for renewal in the same visa category within 48 months of expiration is eligible for the interview waiver. Additionally, travellers with ‘clearance received’ or ‘department authorisation’ on their previous visas can benefit from this process and save themselves from the long queue for visa appointments.

Moreover, the US Department of State has also waived the in-person interview requirement for travellers applying for certain visa categories, including F, H-1, H-3, H-4, non-blanket L, M, O, P, Q, and academic J visas. However, the waiver applies to only those candidates who are not first-time applicants and are applying for the visa in their country of nationality or residence.

What can lead to the rejection of your US visa?

Some common reasons that may lead to your US visa rejection include an incomplete application form, lack of supporting documents, criminal convictions, drug violations and misinterpretation of material facts.

For more details, click here .

Helpful pointers from those with first-hand experience

While the information mentioned above will help you with the application process, these tips listed below, shared by people who attended the interview, will prepare you better for the interview.

• State your purpose of visiting the US clearly to the consular officer. For instance, if you are travelling to attend your child’s convocation, you should have relevant information and an invitation to produce as proof.
• Remember to take all your relevant educational and professional certificates and professional licences, such as a medical or press card.
• Share details about your relatives/friends living in the US.
• Try carrying hotel booking proofs along with your detailed itinerary. If you have already booked tickets, share a copy of the same.
• If someone in the US has invited you, share the invitation letter and the address of the person/entity you are visiting
• Be polite while answering questions, and be patient if extra questions are asked.

Find out more about the complete process here .

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(Hero and featured image credit: Nik Shuliahin/Unsplash)

Related: Multiple Entry And 90-Day Validity: All About Vietnam’s E-Visa Updates

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Pyusha Chatterjee

A journalist, Pyusha has previously worked with media organisations including The New Indian Express and Hindustan Times. A solo traveller by choice, she loves exploring life more than anything else, after food of course. When she isn't gardening, writing, reading, cooking or singing out loud, you can spot her watching films and series, debating with .. Read More friends or organising things unnecessarily. Read Less

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Interview-waivers for more applicants: What US Embassy is doing to reduce visa waiting time

The US acknowledges that the wait time for applicants has been unusually long in the post-Covid period, mainly because of the huge backlog of applications and staffing problems. It has said that it is taking steps to iron out some of these problems.

The United States has announced a significant liberalisation of the visa process for Indian citizens , expanding the interview waiver in multiple categories, including student visas, business and tourist visas, and skilled worker visas.

How does the interview-waiver work?

The ambit of the “dropbox” facility, which is used to renew a US visa without an in-person interview, is being expanded in several visa categories. If a person has obtained a visa (which may have expired now) in a certain category at any time previously, she now becomes eligible for an interview waiver — and can use the dropbox facility. The interview waiver will be applicable to B1 and B2 (tourist and business) visas that may have expired in the last four years.

How will this help?

Since getting an in-person interview appointment with a US Embassy visa official may be time-consuming, an interview waiver will significantly bring down waiting time for US visas in days to come.

For instance, the estimated wait time for a non-immigrant (B1/B2) visa interview appointment at the US Embassy in New Delhi is currently 925 days (or almost two and a half years), whereas the wait time for interview waiver cases in the same category is 291 days (or nine months).

This facility is, however, subject to the fulfillment of certain conditions.

Applicants for student visas, who have in the past travelled to the US on tourist visas, can also seek an interview waiver, even though they may be called for biometrics in case that wasn’t done earlier.

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What exactly is a “drop box”?

A drop box is not literally a box, but a time slot for the submission of the visa application along with the required documentation, that is given by the Embassy. The drop box concept is essentially a bypassing of the interview stage.

How did the problem arise, and what other steps has the US taken?

Among the steps being taken are the addition of temporary consular staff, and sending dropbox cases for processing elsewhere. According to embassy officials, the wait time has already decreased from 15 months to about nine months.

Before the pandemic, the average wait time, depending on the category of visa, varied between a few weeks (for most visas) to a few months in cases of B1/B2 visas in peak season. US Embassy officials say that by the summer of 2023, they expect visa processing to be back at the pre-pandemic level of around 1.2 million per year.

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Divya A reports on travel, tourism, culture and social issues - not necessarily in that order - for The Indian Express. She's been a journalist for over a decade now, working with Khaleej Times and The Times of India, before settling down at Express. Besides writing/ editing news reports, she indulges her pen to write short stories. As Sanskriti Prabha Dutt Fellow for Excellence in Journalism, she is researching on the lives of the children of sex workers in India. ... Read More

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You are here: Home / Interview Waiver for Business and Tourism (B1/B2)

Interview Waiver for Business and Tourism (B1/B2)

Some visa applicants may not need to appear for a visa interview if they qualify for the Interview Waiver. If qualified, applicants only need to drop the required documents at the RPX Document Drop-off Location any business day between 10am and 3pm. Applicants do not need to come in person to drop off their documents. This process will take 14 business days to complete.

Requirements

To qualify for the Interview Waiver, you must be able to answer "YES" to ALL of the following:

• I am an Indonesian passport holder or have legal residence in Indonesia (KITAS / KITAP). 
• I was previously issued a full validity B1/B2 visa which is still valid or recently expired within the last forty-eight months. 
• The last time I applied for a U.S. visa, it was approved.
• I have never been arrested or convicted for any offense or crime, even if subject of a pardon. 
• I have never violated the terms of a previous U.S. visa or stayed in the U.S. longer than permitted on a previous U.S. visa (even if the Department of Homeland Security approved the extension of stay). 
• I have my current and previous passport with my last full validity B1/B2 visa that is still valid or recently expired within the last forty-eight months. (NOTE: You may not use interview waiver if you lost your last B1/B2 visa).  

How to Apply

If you meet the above requirements, follow the steps below:

Complete the non-immigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) form; please see this link for the guidelines 

Log in to our appointment system and create a profile. Once logged in, choose “Schedule Appointment”. As you go through the process you will answer the interview waiver questions which will evaluate your eligibility to renew your visa through interview waiver.

After you answer the questions, you will be prompted to pay and enter the visa application (MRV) fee. Please see this link for more information on how to pay your MRV fee . If you are eligible to apply for a visa through interview waiver, you will be able to print out the “Interview Waiver Confirmation Letter”

Gather following documents and drop them off at the nearest RPX Document Drop-off Location any weekdays between 10am – 3pm. You do not need to come in person to drop off your documents.

• Interview waiver confirmation letter.
• DS-160 Confirmation Page.
• Current passport and previous passport with your last full validity B1/B2 visa that is still valid or recently expired within the last forty-eight months.
• Copy of KITAS / KITAP for legal residence in Indonesia.
• One photo (colored, white background, unretouched, 5x5 cm, taken within the last 6 months). Please see the link for photo requirements.
• MRV or EFT payment receipt.

Additional documents for children under 14 years old

• Copy of birth certificate
• Copy of one parent’s valid B1/B2 U.S. visa

RPX courier will deliver your documents to the U.S. Embassy/Consulate.

At the end of the adjudication process, RPX courier will return your passports and documents at your chosen delivery address. If eligible, your passport will contain your visa. If not eligible to renew your visa through interview waiver, you will receive a notification by e-mail.

Important Notes:

• The U.S Embassy in Jakarta and U.S Consulate in Surabaya reserve the right to interview any applicant. If an interview is required, an Embassy or Consulate representative will contact you.
• If you drop off your documents for renewal but are not eligible for the Interview Waiver Program, your application will be placed on hold and you will be asked to schedule a regular appointment. Please make sure you are eligible for the Interview Waiver Program based on the above criteria. You should submit your application well in advance of your travel plans,
• If additional information or document is needed, you will be informed by email or phone. Please make sure the e-mail address in your application is valid and check your e-mail regularly after you drop your application.
• Children under 14 years of age whose parent(s) has a valid U.S. visa do not need to schedule a regular appointment (even if the child has never previously been issued a visa). The parent can simply pay the MRV fee and submit the completed application for each child under 14 at the same time they submit their own application. The parent must include a copy of the birth certificate for each child. In addition, children under 14 years of age whose parent(s) have valid U.S visa (s) do not need to schedule a regular appointment (even if the child has previously been issued a visa). The parent must pay the MRV fee and submit the application, include the child's copy of birth certificate and parent’s copy of valid U.S visa.
• All applicants must qualify on their own. Spouses, parents, or any other family member unable to meet the interview waiver criteria will not be eligible for interview waiver. Those applicants must schedule a regular appointment.
• You must be physically present in Indonesia. An application cannot be sent by international mail to be processed.

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Skip the queue! US Embassy in India expands Visa interview waiver process for these travellers looking for renewal

Us embassy india has announced some great news for travellers looking to renew their us visa.

Good news for travelers looking to renew their US visa! The US Embassy in India has announced that those with "clearance received" or "department authorization" on their previous visas can now use the interview waiver process to apply for a new visa. This new update is part of the Department of State's ongoing efforts to make the visa application process more efficient and streamlined.

This interview waiver process is a welcome relief for many travelers who were previously required to attend an in-person interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. It not only saves time but also reduces the stress of having to go through the visa application process all over again.

To be eligible for the interview waiver process, applicants must be renewing their visa in the same category within 48 months of expiration. Additionally, consular officers are authorized to waive the in-person interview requirement for travelers applying for F, H-1, H-3, H-4, non-blanket L, M, O, P, Q, and academic J visas, who were previously issued any type of visa, provided they are applying for a visa in their country of nationality or residence.

However, this authorization does not apply to applicants who have a previous refusal that was not subsequently waived or overcome. Adjudicating consular officers may also request an in-person interview if additional information is required from applicants.

For those applying through the interview waiver process, it is important to note that it may take up to three weeks from the time a passport has been accepted at the Visa Application Center until the passport is delivered or they are notified that the passport is ready for pickup. During this period, it will not be possible to withdraw the passport or expedite the processing under any circumstances.

Overall, this new update to the interview waiver process is great news for travelers who want to renew their US visa quickly and easily. For additional interview waiver criteria and information, applicants are advised to visit the US Embassy's website.

(Source- https://in.usembassy.gov/visas/ )

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US consolidate B1/B2 interview waiver appointments in New Delhi

N ew Delhi [India], April 2 (ANI): The US Embassy in India has consolidated B1/B2 interview waiver appointments in New Delhi. However, applicants will be able to submit their application forms free of cost at any of the five Visa Application Centers or, for a fee of 850 rupees per application, they can drop the documents at any of the US Document Dropoff Centers located in Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Cochin, Jalandhar, or Pune.

The US Embassy in India, in a post on X wrote, "Planning to book a visitor visa appointment using our convenient interview waiver process? You might notice something new. As part of our continuing effort to streamline visa processing, we've consolidated B1/B2 interview waiver appointments in New Delhi going forward."

"You'll still be able to submit your application forms free of cost at any of our five Visa Application Centers. Or, for a fee of 850 rupees per application, you can drop your documents at any of our Document Dropoff Centers located in Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chandigarh, Cochin, Jalandhar, or Pune," the post added.

https://x.com/USAndIndia/status/1775120631853412384?s=20

Adding that the appointments will be readily available in New Delhi for any interview waiver-eligible applicants looking for a visitor visa, the Embassy said, "Because of this consolidation, you will see limited interview waiver appointments available for visitor visas in Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Mumbai. But don't worry, appointments continue to be readily available in New Delhi for any interview waiver-eligible applicants looking for a visitor visa."

"You will not be required to travel to New Delhi unless you are later found ineligible to use the interview waiver process," it said.

The US Consular Team in India processed a record 1.4 million US visas in 2023, which is higher than ever, and has brought down the visitor visa appointment wait times by 75 per cent.

The US Embassy and Consulates in India said that Indians now represent one out of every 10 US visa applicants around the world.

"In 2023, the US Embassy and Consulates in India processed a record-smashing 1.4 million US visas. Demand across all visa classes was unprecedented, with a 60 per cent increase in applications compared to 2022. Indians now represent one out of every ten US visa applicants around the world," an official statement read.

Visitor visas (B1/B2) have rebounded to represent the second-highest number of applications in the US Mission's history -- over 7,00,000.

Process improvements and investments in staffing have brought the appointment wait time for visitor visas down from an average of 1,000 days to only 250 days around the country with minimal wait time in all categories. (ANI)

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US consolidate B1/B2 interview waiver appointments in New Delhi

03 April 2024 ANI

New Delhi, April 2

he US Embassy in India has consolidated B1/B2 interview waiver appointments in New Delhi. However, applicants will be able to submit their application forms free of cost at any of the five Visa Application Centers or, for a fee of 850 rupees per application, they can drop the documents at any of the US Document Dropoff Centers located in Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Cochin, Jalandhar, or Pune.

The US Embassy in India, in a post on X wrote, "Planning to book a visitor visa appointment using our convenient interview waiver process? You might notice something new. As part of our continuing effort to streamline visa processing, we've consolidated B1/B2 interview waiver appointments in New Delhi going forward."

"You'll still be able to submit your application forms free of cost at any of our five Visa Application Centers. Or, for a fee of 850 rupees per application, you can drop your documents at any of our Document Dropoff Centers located in Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chandigarh, Cochin, Jalandhar, or Pune," the post added.

https://x.com/USAndIndia/status/1775120631853412384?s=20

Adding that the appointments will be readily available in New Delhi for any interview waiver-eligible applicants looking for a visitor visa, the Embassy said, "Because of this consolidation, you will see limited interview waiver appointments available for visitor visas in Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Mumbai. But don't worry, appointments continue to be readily available in New Delhi for any interview waiver-eligible applicants looking for a visitor visa."

"You will not be required to travel to New Delhi unless you are later found ineligible to use the interview waiver process," it said.

The US Consular Team in India processed a record 1.4 million US visas in 2023, which is higher than ever, and has brought down the visitor visa appointment wait times by 75 per cent.

The US Embassy and Consulates in India said that Indians now represent one out of every 10 US visa applicants around the world.

"In 2023, the US Embassy and Consulates in India processed a record-smashing 1.4 million US visas. Demand across all visa classes was unprecedented, with a 60 per cent increase in applications compared to 2022. Indians now represent one out of every ten US visa applicants around the world," an official statement read.

Visitor visas (B1/B2) have rebounded to represent the second-highest number of applications in the US Mission's history -- over 7,00,000.

Process improvements and investments in staffing have brought the appointment wait time for visitor visas down from an average of 1,000 days to only 250 days around the country with minimal wait time in all categories.

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Biden told me to cut visa wait time for Indians: US envoy Garcetti

In a first for any american president, us president joe biden asked the visa wait time be reduced for indians, said eric garcetti, the us ambassador to india. garcetti said work was on to reduce the visa wait time, which is currently at 250 days..

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• Garcetti mentioned a significant 75% decrease in visa waiting times
• Record surge of Indian students to US marks a 35% increase in 2022-23
• US embassy to open two new consulates in India for faster visa processing

Eric Garcetti, the US Ambassador to India, shared that President Joe Biden instructed him to cut down the wait time for American visas in India. This is the first time a US president has given such an instruction to an ambassador in any country, the envoy said. The wait time in India for a US visa is 250 days.

"The president told me to reduce visa wait times in India. I believe it's the first time a president has ever said that to an ambassador in any country," Eric Garcetti told news agency ANI in an interview.

Garcetti pointed out that a part of the visa backlog problem is because of laws made by Congress.

He emphasised that the US Congress needed to deal with issues on legal immigrants, green cards, and citizenships.

Garcetti said there was a 75% decrease in visa waiting times.

GARCETTI'S RESPONSE TO LONG VISA WAIT TIME

The reduction in waiting time for US visas is linked to a 60% rise in granting of visas in India over the last year.

"This is a legislative issue Congress needs to tackle, whether it's the number of legal immigrants, green cards, or citizenships. Like any country, there are limits. This can be frustrating for Indians, as there are many who wish to come to America. Last year, India had the highest number of student visas, double that of the second-largest country," Garcetti told ANI.

Indian students are increasingly choosing to study at US universities , creating a boom for American Universities. The number of Indian students in the US has skyrocketed, with a staggering 35% increase in just one year.

Currently, there are over 250,000 students from India at US universities.

Despite the 75% decrease in visa waiting time, there still remains a waiting period of 250 days. When Garcetti was asked about this ongoing 250-day waiting period, Garcetti stressed, "Where the 250 is still a long way. It is, and too high for me. The president said, Eric, I want you to bring down visa wait times in India. I think it’s probably the first time a President ever said that to an ambassador in any country.”

“I don’t think presidents even focus on visa wait times, but we all have so many Indian friends who are saying, Why is this taking so long? That it even went up to the president. So the reality of that 250 is an average. And I think the typical person is actually under 200 days already. It’s difficult with the existing resources,” he remarked.

Additionally, the US Embassy in India reported a record influx of Indian students to the US for higher education, with a 35% increase reaching an all-time high of 268,923 students in the 2022-23 academic year, as per the Open Doors Report.

To boost diplomatic connections, Garcetti said two consulates -- in Bangalore and Ahmedabad -- had been opened in India.

Despite hurdles, they're working to increase staff levels after agreements are made during state visits, to make sure they represent themselves well and engage diplomatically in the region. Published By: Girish Kumar Anshul Published On: Apr 1, 2024

Why The World’s Top Travel Brands Are Betting Big On Indian Tourists

India’s surging middle class is projected to spend as much as $144 billion a year on international travel by 2030. and hotels, airlines and cities are spending millions to land them., by suzanne rowan kelleher , forbes staff.

L ast week, hundreds of global travel professionals gathered in Delhi for the inaugural Skift India Summit and the opportunity to glean valuable insights from the CEOs of major travel brands, including The Oberoi Group, OYO, Agoda and the country’s flag carrier, Air India. “India is having a moment,” explains Brian Quinn, head of event programming at Skift, “with the India outbound traveler poised to become the biggest global force in coming years.”

A decade ago, you could have said the same about Chinese tourists. Back in 2014, some 117 million Chinese tourists traveled internationally, which was a 20% increase from the previous year. But 10 years and one pandemic later, Chinese outbound travel still hasn’t rebounded to its pre-Covid heights, while the energy and focus of the global tourism machine has shifted southeast—to India.

With more than 1.4 billion people, India now has the world’s largest population and the fifth-largest economy . Outbound travel from India is growing much faster than from any other country, which has led to a flurry of predictions that have travel brands salivating.

“There’s such huge potential,” says Caroline Bremner, head of travel and tourism research at Euromonitor International , which projects 47 million Indian outbound travelers by 2030. “That’s more than doubling from 2019. And then on the spending side, it’s even better, going from $35 billion in 2019 to $84 billion in 2030,” she says. “Essentially, India is jumping up the ranks and will be the sixth-largest outbound source market globally by 2030, after China, the U.S., the U.K., Germany and France.”

A 2023 report by Nangia Andersen , the Indian arm of Andersen Global, forecasts that Indian outbound travel will grow at an 11.2% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) between now and 2032—which roughly aligns with Euromonitor’s prediction for tourist volume. If these projections bear out, then another, wilder prediction may not be so implausible after all: organizers of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), an industry conference to be held in Dubai in May, have touted that India’s outbound market will be worth $144 billion a year by the end of this decade.

And a recent report from McKinsey is similarly bullish on the longer-term prospects for Indian tourism. “India’s outbound travel has the potential to grow from 13 million trips in 2022 to over 80 million in 2040,” the authors write. “If India follows China’s outbound travel trajectory (which it could, due to similarity in population size and per capita income trajectory), then Indian tourists could make 80 million to 90 million trips a year by 2040.”

Given all the hype, travel brands have, naturally, begun heavily courting Indian tourists, often by tapping celebrities as influencers. Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan promotes Dubai and Katrina Kaif, a British actress who makes Hindi-language films, professes her loyalty to Accor. Actor Ranveer Singh appears in ads for Abu Dhabi , while his wife, Deepika Padukone, is the global brand ambassador of Qatar Airways . Meanwhile, Neeraj Chopra, the reigning Olympic gold medalist and world champion in javelin, has been enlisted to promote Switzerland’s spectacular alpine landscapes.

Yet before India’s outbound travel can reach its full potential, industry experts say, the volume of flights in and out of the country—a number mutually decided by the two respective governments—must increase dramatically. There were roughly 14% more flight routes by city pairs to and from India last year compared to 2019, according to data from FlightAware . Right now, airlines are operating just 18 scheduled passenger flights each week from India to the United States—up from 14 in 2019.

Some destinations have made policy tweaks to boost capacity. In late 2022, Canada lifted the cap on the number of flights from India from 35 per week to “unlimited” and gave Indian airlines access to six hubs, including Toronto, Montreal, Edmonton, and Vancouver. South Africa Tourism, meanwhile, has teamed up with Ethiopian Airlines to provide faster links between India and Africa. Even Bhutan’s prime minister has emphasized the need to strengthen air connectivity between India and the tiny Buddhist kingdom.

Airlines are taking note of India’s growing importance as well. Most notably, Singapore Airlines inked a deal in late 2022 with Tata Group, paying a reported $250 million for a 25% stake in Air India. Last November, Singapore Airlines CEO Goh Choon Phong told Forbes Asia of his plans to make India a new hub. “You can just tell how much potential there is,” Goh said. “India is growing but it’s significantly underserved.”

Hotel CEOs are also being seduced by the dizzying economic forecasts. “We just are blessed by the increase of demography in the world and blessed by the increase of households that want to travel,” Sébastien Bazin, CEO of the French hospitality giant Accor, told investors on the company’s most recent earnings call in February. He offered a short lesson on global economics, noting that the world’s emerging middle-class population exploded by one billion over the last 10 years. “Half of those are from India,” he emphasized. “We probably can wisely say that for the next 10 years, demand will no longer grow 3% to 5%, but probably 4% to 6%. You very well could be looking at a 3x demand over supply. And a lot of it, again, has to do with India alone, which is [expected to add] 500 million [to its] emerging middle class.”

“India is definitely an economic bright light,” echoes Bremner, noting that the country’s current 8% economic growth rate is stronger than China’s. Moreover, it shows no signs of slowing down.

Last year, 1.7 million Indian tourists visited the United States, making India the country’s fourth-largest travel source after Canada, Mexico and the United Kingdom. The average Indian tourist also spends money when traveling internationally—roughly $5,252 per trip, according to the last six months of data collected by the National Travel & Tourism Office (NTTO), the agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce that tracks tourism statistics. Comparatively, the typical visitor from the United Kingdom and Brazil spends $2,656 and $3,344, respectively, while the average Japanese tourist spends $3,672. In other words, it takes two British tourists to spend as much as one Indian traveler.

If the United States wants to attract more Indian tourists in the future, experts say it needs to make entering the country much easier. “I am a firm believer that less friction will lead to more travel,” says Omri Morgenshtern, CEO of Agoda, the largest online travel agency in Asia. “Friction can be removed by adding direct flights, as well as by the introduction of visa waivers or by being able to book accommodation, flights and activities on one app.”

Currently, 62 countries permit Indian travelers to visit without first obtaining a visa—that’s 10 more than in 2016, the year that the Henley & Partners Passport Index launched. But the United States neither grants visa-free entry to Indian tourists nor does it make procuring a visa fast and easy.

While the U.S. is approving more visas for Indians today than in pre-pandemic years, the average visa wait time is still about 10 months, according to the U.S. State Department website . Before a leisure trip to America, an Indian citizen must wait for a visa interview, which can take anywhere from 197 days at the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi to 423 days at the U.S. Consulate in Mumbai. In comparison, Indian tourists can get a visa for Canada in just 23 days or the United Kingdom in roughly three weeks.

U.S. officials readily acknowledge that visa wait times are a big problem. Speaking at the Skift India Summit on Tuesday, Eric Garcetti, the U.S. Ambassador to India, told conference-goers that President Joe Biden specifically asked him to tackle the backlog. “I bet it’s the only time the United States president has told the ambassador, ‘Please work on visa issues,’” Garcetti said.

Visa waivers have a proven track record and give nations a competitive edge, insists Agoda CEO Morgenstern. After Azerbaijan introduced the ASAN system, which processes electronic visas within three working days of submitting an application, interest from Indian tourists skyrocketed and arrivals increased fivefold in two years. “Thailand and Malaysia both introduced visa waivers for tourists from India late last year, and that led to an immediate increase in searches from India to both markets,” Morgenshtern says, noting that searches for Thailand grow by 46% even though Thailand was already the top searched destination by Indians. “In the two months after the visa waiver came into effect, Bangkok overtook Dubai as the most-booked city destinations for Indians.” Yet the emirate was not to be outmaneuvered. In February, Dubai introduced a five-year multiple-entry visa for inbound Indian travelers.

Another reason why India is such an attractive source market is its youthful population. Only 7% of India’s population is 65 years and older, compared with 14% in China and 18% in the U.S., according to data from a recent report from the Pew Research Center. People under the age of 25 account for more than 40% of India’s population . “ In fact, there are so many Indians in this age group that roughly one-in-five people globally who are under the age of 25 live in India,” notes the Pew report. “Looking at India’s age distribution another way, the country’s median age is 28. By comparison, the median age is 38 in the United States and 39 in China.”

“It’s an extremely well-educated populace, very digitally savvy,” says Bremner, adding that more than 75% of Indian millennials and Gen Xers traveled in 2023, according to Euromonitor data.

“Indian travelers are more engaged with ecotourism and sustainability than their global counterparts. They are open to all kinds of experiences, from luxury to eco-adventure,” Bremner continues. “And, of course, they are high spending. I’m not at all surprised that destinations from Asia to the Middle East and Europe and U.S. are chasing them.”

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Visitor Visa

Visa Waiver Program

Travel Without a Visa

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda

Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for a temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Visitor visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons who want to enter the United States temporarily for business (visa category B-1), for tourism (visa category B-2), or for a combination of both purposes (B-1/B-2).

Here are some examples of activities permitted with a visitor visa:

Business (B-1)

• Consult with business associates
• Attend a scientific, educational, professional, or business convention or conference
• Settle an estate
• Negotiate a contract

Tourism (B-2)

• Vacation (holiday)
• Visit with friends or relatives
• Medical treatment
• Participation in social events hosted by fraternal, social, or service organizations
• Participation by amateurs in musical, sports, or similar events or contests, if not being paid for participating
• Enrollment in a short recreational course of study, not for credit toward a degree (for example, a two-day cooking class while on vacation)

Travel Purposes Not Permitted On Visitor Visas

These are some examples of activities that require different categories of visas and cannot be done while on a visitor visa:

• Paid performances, or any professional performance before a paying audience
• Arrival as a crewmember on a ship or aircraft
• Work as foreign press, in radio, film, print journalism, or other information media
• Permanent residence in the United States

Visitor visas will also not be issued for birth tourism (travel for the primary purpose of giving birth in the United States to obtain U.S. citizenship for their child).

How to Apply

There are several steps to apply for a visa. The order of these steps and how you complete them may vary by U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Please consult the instructions on the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate website .

Complete the Online Visa Application

• Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 – Learn more about completing the DS-160 . You must: 1) complete the online visa application and 2) print the application form confirmation page to bring to your interview.
• Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. Your photo must be in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements .

Schedule an Interview

Interviews are generally required for visa applicants with certain limited exceptions below. Consular officers may require an interview of any visa applicant.

You should schedule an appointment for your visa interview at the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  in the country where you live. You may schedule your interview at another U.S. Embassy or Consulate, but be aware that it may be more difficult to qualify for a visa outside of the country where you live. 

Wait times for interview appointments vary by location, season, and visa category, so you should apply for your visa early. Review the interview wait time for the location where you will apply: 

Appointment Wait Time

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:

Prepare for your interview.

• Fees - Pay the non-refundable visa application fee , if you are required to pay it before your interview. If your visa is approved, you may also need to pay a visa issuance fee, if applicable to your nationality. Fee information is provided below:

Select your nationality to see Issuance Fee

• Review the instructions available on the website of the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  where you will apply to learn more about fee payment.

Gather Required Documentation

Gather and prepare the following required documents before your visa interview:

• Passport valid for travel to the United States – Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States (unless exempt by country-specific agreements ). Each individual who needs a visa must submit a separate application, including any family members listed in your passport.
• Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 confirmation page.
• Application fee payment receipt, if you are required to pay before your interview.
• Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. If the photo upload fails, you must bring one printed photo in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements .

Additional Documentation May Be Required

Review the instructions for how to apply for a visa on the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply. Additional documents may be requested to establish if you are qualified. For example, additional requested documents may include evidence of:

• The purpose of your trip,
• Your intent to depart the United States after your trip, and/or
• Your ability to pay all costs of the trip.   

Evidence of your employment and/or your family ties may be sufficient to show the purpose of your trip and your intent to return to your home country. If you cannot cover all the costs for your trip, you may show evidence that another person will cover some or all costs for your trip.

Note:  Visa applicants must qualify on the basis of the applicant's residence and ties abroad, rather than assurances from U.S. family and friends. A letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support is not needed to apply for a visitor visa. If you choose to bring a letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support to your interview, please remember it is not one of the factors used in determining whether to issue or deny the visa.

Attend Your Visa Interview

A consular officer will interview you to determine whether you are qualified to receive a visitor visa. You must establish that you meet the requirements under U.S. law to receive a visa.   Ink-free, digital fingerprint scans are taken as part of the application process. They are usually taken during your interview, but this varies based on location.

After your visa interview, the consular officer may determine that your application requires further  administrative processing .  The consular officer will inform you if this required.

After the visa is approved, you may need to pay a visa issuance fee (if applicable to your nationality), and make arrangements for the return of the passport and visa to you.  Review the  visa processing times  to learn more.

Entering the United States

A visa allows a foreign citizen to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (generally an airport) and request permission to enter the United States. A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port-of-entry have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States. If you are allowed to enter the United States, the CBP official will provide an admission stamp or a paper Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record. Learn more about admissions and entry requirements, restrictions about bringing food, agricultural products, and other restricted/prohibited goods, and more by reviewing the CBP website .

Extending Your Stay

See  Extend Your Stay  on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website to learn about requesting to extend your stay beyond the date indicated on your admission stamp or paper Form I-94. 

Failure to depart the United States on time will result in being  out of status . Under U.S. law, visas of individuals who are out of status are automatically voided ( Section 222(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act ).  Any multiple entry visa that was voided due to being out of status will not be valid for future entries into the United States. 

Failure to depart the United States on time may also result in you being ineligible for visas in the future. Review  Visa Denials  and  Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws  to learn more.

Change of Status

If your plans change while in the United States (for example, you marry a U.S. citizen or receive an offer of employment), you may be able to request a change in your nonimmigrant status to another category through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). See  Change My Nonimmigrant Status  on the USCIS website to learn more.

While you are in the United States, receiving a change of status from USCIS does not require you to apply for a new visa.  However, once you depart the United States you must apply for a new visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the appropriate category for your travel.

Additional Information

• An individual on a visitor visa (B1/B2) is not permitted to accept employment or work in the United States.
• There is no guarantee you will be issued a visa. Do not make final travel plans or buy tickets until you have a visa.
• A valid U.S. visa in an expired passport is still valid. Unless canceled or revoked, a visa is valid until its expiration date. If you have a valid visa in your expired passport, do not remove it from your expired passport. You may use your valid visa in your expired passport along with a new valid passport for travel and admission to the United States. 

Travel for Medical Treatment

If you are seeking medical treatment in the United States, the consular officer may ask for further documents at your visa interview, which may include:

• Medical diagnosis from a local physician, explaining the nature of the ailment and the reason you need treatment in the United States.
• Letter from a physician or medical facility in the United States, stating they are willing to treat your specific ailment and detailing the projected length and cost of treatment (including doctors’ fees, hospitalization fees, and all medical-related expenses).
• Proof that your transportation, medical, and living expenses in the United States will be paid. This may be in the form of bank or other statements of income/savings or certified copies of income tax returns (either yours or the person or organization paying for your treatment).

Visitor Visas for Personal or Domestic Employees (B-1)

You may apply for a B-1 visitor visa to work in the United States as a personal or domestic employee for your employer in limited situations. You may work in the United States on a visitor visa if your employer is:

• A U.S. citizen who has a permanent home or is stationed in a foreign country, but is visiting or is assigned to the United States temporarily; or
• A foreign citizen who is in the United States on one of the following nonimmigrant visa categories:  B, E, F, H, I, J, L, M, O, P, or Q.

Learn more about your rights in the United States and protection available to you by reading the Legal Rights and Protections pamphlet.

Visa Renewal

Whether you are applying for the first time or renewing your visa, you will use the same application process (please review How to Apply , above). Some applicants seeking to renew their visas in certain visa classes may be eligible for the Interview Waiver (IW) which allows qualified individuals to apply for visa renewals without being interviewed in person by a U.S. consular officer. Review the instructions on the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply to determine if the IW is available and if you qualify.

Do I need a visa if I have an ABTC?

Yes, you will still need a visa to travel to the United States, unless you qualify for the  Visa Waiver Program . Having an Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travelers Card (ABTC) does not change visa requirements, your visa status, or the visa process for travel to the United States.

How can I use my ABTC when I apply for my visa?

If you have an Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travelers Card (ABTC),  you might be able to schedule an expedited visa interview appointment. Review the instructions for scheduling expedited appointments on the website of the  embassy or consulate  where you will apply. 

Visa Annotations for Certain Maritime Industry Workers

Certain foreign maritime workers are eligible to apply for a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) once in the U.S. If you, as a maritime industry worker, will perform services in secure port areas, your visa must be annotated “TWIC Letter Received.” Workers whose visas are not annotated will not be permitted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to apply for a TWIC.

In order for your visa to be annotated, you must obtain a letter from your employer explaining the need for a TWIC and that you are a potential TWIC applicant. See a template example of this letter. You must present this letter when you apply for the B-1 visa. You must meet all other eligibility requirements for a B-1 visa. 

Complete information about the TWIC program is available on TSA’s website at  https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/twic .

Visa Denial and Ineligibility

Review  Visa Denials  for detailed information about visa ineligibilities, denials and waivers.

I was refused a visa, under Section 214(b). May I reapply?

Yes, if you feel circumstances have changed regarding your application. Review  Visa Denials  to learn more.

Misrepresentation or Fraud

Attempting to obtain a visa by the willful misrepresentation of a material fact, or fraud, may result in the permanent refusal of a visa or denial of entry into the United States.

Review  Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws .

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda do not require visas to enter the United States, for visit, tourism and temporary business travel purposes. For more information see  U.S. Embassy Ottawa website ,  U.S. Consulate Hamilton website  and  CBP website .

Additional resources for Canadian visitors to the United States can be found on the U.S. Embassy and Consulate websites in Canada.

Citizens of China

In accordance with the agreement signed between the United States and China to extend visa validity, beginning on November 29, 2016, Chinese citizens with 10-year B1, B2 or B1/B2 visas in Peoples’ Republic of China passports will be required to update their biographical and other information from their visa application via a website every two years, or upon getting a new passport or B1, B2, or B1/B2 visa, whichever occurs first.  This mechanism is called EVUS - Electronic Visa Update System.

The EVUS website is now open to the public for enrollments at www.EVUS.gov .  CBP will not collect a fee for EVUS enrollment at this time. CBP anticipates the eventual implementation of an EVUS enrollment fee, but does not have a time frame. Until the implementation of a fee, travelers can enroll in EVUS without charge.  The Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will keep visa holders informed of new information throughout the year. For further information, please visit  www.cbp.gov/EVUS .‎

根据美中双方签署的延长签证有效期的协议，自2016年11月29日起，凡持有10 年 期B1，B2 或 B1/B2签证的中华人民共和国护照持有人需要每两年或在获取新护照或最长有效期的B1、B2或B1/B2签证时时（以先到者为准），通过网站更新他们签证申请上的个人资料及其它信息。这个机制我们称之为EVUS –签证更新电子系统。

EVUS的登记网站 www.EVUS.gov 现已开放接受登记。美国海关和边境保护局（CBP）目前不会收取登记费用。美国海关和边境保护局预期EVUS登记收费最终会实施，但目前尚未落实执行时间。在收费实施前，旅客可以免费完成EVUS登记。美国国土安全部海关和边境保护局将在今年及时向签证持有人公布最新的信息。获取更多的信息，请访问 www.cbp.gov/EVUS 。

Citizens of Mexico

Citizens and permanent residents of Mexico generally must have a nonimmigrant visa or Border Crossing Card (also known as a "Laser Visa"). For ease of travel, the B-1/B-2 and the Border Crossing Card have been combined into one document (DSP-150). Select  Border Crossing Card  to learn more about this card.

Please visit  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  websites for more information regarding applying for a visa at the U.S. Embassy or Consulates in Mexico.

Further Questions

• Case-Specific Questions - Contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate handling your visa application for status information. Select  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  for contact information.
• General Questions - review  Contact Us .

Visa Waiver Program  (VWP)

Tourist or business travelers who are citizens of participating countries may be eligible to visit the United States without a visa. Visits must be 90 days or less, and travelers must meet all requirements.

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda generally do not need visas for tourism and visits.

More Information

A-Z Index Legal Rights & Protections Lost/Stolen Travel Documents Denials Fraud Warning Visa Expiration Date Automatic Revalidation Nonimmigrants in the United States–Applying for Visas in Canada or Mexico Visa Applicants - State Sponsors of Terrorism Border Security/Safety Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate Customer Service Statement

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