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USA Tourist Visa – Visitor Documents

The following documents are needed for a tourist visa for the USA.

There is no guarantee that the tourist visa will be issued even if you bring all the documents and evidence. Present only valid documents. Fraud or misrepresentation can result in a permanent ineligibility for a US visa.

You will need the following documents to obtain a USA tourist visa:

Mandatory US Tourist Visa Documents

• Current  passport as well as old passports
• One photograph
• Confirmation page of online submitted  Form DS-160 with CEAC barcode.
• Visa Fee Receipt Fees to be paid in advance before taking an appointment.
• Original interview appointment letter. Sample

Non-Immigrant Intent

Applicants for visitor visas must show that they qualify under the provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act. The presumption in the Act is that every applicant is an intending immigrant. Therefore, applicants must overcome this presumption by demonstrating that:

• the purpose of their trip is to enter the United States temporarily for business or pleasure or medical treatment; 
• they plan to remain for a specific, limited period; 
• they have a residence outside of the United States and they intend to return abroad at the conclusion of the visit.

The prime criterion of the issuance of a visitor visa is if the applicant is able to convince the consular officer that the applicant truly intends to return to his/her home country after a temporary stay in the United States. It is impossible to specify the exact form of such documentation as each applicant’s circumstances vary greatly. Each applicant must keep in mind that the interview will focus on his or her credibility and not only the documents presented. 

It is generally difficult for young people to present strong ties. In such cases, the consular office may consider the applicant’s education status/grades, long-range plans, parents’ status, prospects in the home country, previous travel to other countries, etc.

Supporting US tourist visa documents

Most of your documents are for showing that you will return to the home country after your temporary stay in the United States. e.g., proof of work, proof of property, bank deposits, family ties, etc.

Please note that it is not mandatory that you gather each and every document listed here. There is no specific list prescribed by the government. However, the more documents you take, the better it is for you.

• Photocopies of the first page, last page and remarks pages of your current  passport . 
• Applicants who do not have sufficient funds of their own to support themselves during their proposed stay in the United States must present credible evidence to show that they will be supported thereby some interested person; such evidence should reflect the ties between applicant and sponsor which form the basis for the latter’s assurances of extending support. You should present all original documents  sent to you by your sponsor in the USA.  If someone is sponsoring you, you don’t have to show enough financial means by yourself to take care of your expenses for your trip to the US However, you should still take the property, employment/profession, and financial documents, as described below, to help you prove the strong ties to the home country.  As much as possible, avoid getting the affidavit of support from people who own small businesses such as gas stations, grocery stores or motels. Consular officers believe that these people employ people illegally and may employ you also. You are supposed to be going as a tourist, and not for work.  If you have photographs with you and the sponsor is in them, please carry them. 
• Self-Sponsored Applicants Self-sponsored applicants may show evidence of financial resources through property, employment/profession, and financial documents, as described below.  For parents visiting a child resident in the US, you need to provide the documents listed in the ‘Identification, Relationship and Legal Status Documents’ section in  sponsor documents . 
• You have a residence outside of the US that you do not intend on abandoning. This can be shown via deeds to real estate. These help to persuade the consular officer that you have strong ties to your home country and are likely to return there.
• Proof of property such as a house, shop, godown (warehouse), etc. Take the original ownership papers. If you have a loan on any of these properties, the original papers may not be with you. In that case, take whatever documents you have.  Also take the property estimate given by the Chartered Accountant that may include items such as land, flat, jewelry, etc. in addition to the real estate property.
• Photographs of your house, office, factory, shop or other properties. 
• Personal affidavit(s) regarding the property. Business owners should show how much they earned last year. Indicate ties such as having elderly parents you need to take care of or a child whom you need to help after your return with wedding arrangements. Also, describing the nature of the trip and details of the itinerary  is helpful. Sample affidavit for father Sample affidavit for mother   It is better to make a separate affidavit for each person, rather than a combined one for both of them. These affidavits cannot be on stamp paper, but instead on the CA’s letterhead.
• If you are employed, get a letter from an employer that shows the details of your position, salary, length of employment, the period of authorized vacation; and the purpose of your US trip. Also, carry pay slips from the three most recent months.
• If you are retired and get a pension, your pension book. 
• If you own a business, bring the company registration certificate and its income details.
• If you are running a business in partnership, bring your partnership agreement. 
• If you are employed or have a business, bring your visiting card (business card). 
• If you hold any social or professional designations in the home country, bring proof related to that. 
• A No Objection Certificate (NOC) letter and Leave Sanction letter if the applicant is in Government service or with any of the Armed Forces.  If you are employed in a private place, your leave sanction letter.  Sample No Objection and Leave Sanction Letter  
• If you hold any post or designation in professional, religious, or fraternal organizations, proof of the same. e.g., lions club president or secretary, trustee of the temple etc. 
• Latest income tax returns for last 3 years (i.e., Form 16 or Form 2D). You should take the originals.  Some people pay income tax only in the year in which they are applying for the visitor visa, even if they never paid income tax in their entire life. They think that if they show that they are paying income tax, they will get the visa. It is not that simple. 
• Some bank balance for at least a few months before going for a visa. Please note that simple bank letters showing simply the bank balance is not acceptable. You have to also take the past few months (say 6 months) of statements with you, or the pass book. 
• Other financial papers e.g., bank fixed deposits, shares (demat account statements), life insurance policies, bonds, etc. 
• Family photographs of close family.
• Documents about the family (e.g.,  marriage certificate ,  birth certificates  of any children, etc.) 
• Your family tree chart that shows your close relatives’ names, ages, professions and the addresses. 
• If you are applying alone and if your spouse has been to the US before, bring the original passport of your spouse, but only if your spouse is currently not visiting the US
• If you have traveled outside of the home country in the past, your photographs taken during your visit(s) are recommended. 
• If you have traveled to the US earlier on any visa and came back to your home country on time, show the proof as per stamps in your passport or copies of plane tickets or boarding passes. 
• If you have been to the US earlier and applied for an  extension of stay , you must present a Form I-797 Extension of Status Approval Notice during your subsequent visa interview. 
• If any of your close relatives have been to the US and have returned on time, proof of the same.
• Cover letter highlighting the nature of the visit, reason for travel, an outline of your plans in the US and explaining why you will return to the home country (family ties, employment, or similar binding obligations). Preferably, it should be written in bullet points and be less than 1 page. Sample   Major tourist places in the US
• Optionally, include letters of invitation from relatives or friends in the United States whom the applicant plans to visit, a confirmation of participation in group tours, an invitation to an event such as a printed wedding invitation, or an invitation to attend a graduation, etc. 
• For children below 14 years of age, the  original birth certificate , and, if applicable, parents’ valid visas.  Birth certificates or marriage certificates of adult applicants are not required. 
• List of names, addresses, and phone numbers of all the persons whom you are going to visit or stay with. 
• Air Tickets If they ask for a return air ticket, tell them it will be purchased after the visa is issued. Don’t show a one way air ticket in any case.
• Visitor Medical Insurance If they ask for  visitors medical insurance , you can purchase it from  Insubuy . It is not mandatory to get visitors insurance before getting the visitors visa. 
• Dependents joining their spouse abroad need to carry their original  marriage certificate  and entire wedding photo album along with the spouse’s visa copy. 
• Criminal/court records pertaining to any arrest or conviction anywhere, even if you completed your sentence or were later pardoned.
• Purpose Specific Documents   Gather these additional documents, if applicable, for the specific purpose of your visit. 
• Additional documents for young persons
• If there are variations in the names in different documents, prepare a One and the Same Person affidavit.  Sample one and the same person affidavit  
• It is not possible to list all documents that anyone may need in any situation. Therefore, even if some document is not listed here, and you think that it would be helpful to show your genuine purpose to visit the US or it can show your close ties to the home country that will force you to return, please carry those documents. 

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What Documents are Required for US Visitor Visa

With over 77 million international visitors each year, the United States receives 15.7% of all world travelers, according to the figures released by the National Travel and Tourism Office. The US boasts plethora of unique tourist attractions, from the incredible landscape of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the rich French architecture of New Orleans.

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Types of US Visitor Visa

To travel to America, you first need to apply for a US visitor visa , which is a temporary visa issued to a person who intends to travel to the country for the purposes of business, tourism, or both, or for medical treatment. 

Those traveling to the US for the purposes of temporary employment, education, religious work, etc., need to apply under a different visa category. There are two types of US visitor visas, so make sure to choose the one that best suits the purpose of your visit.

Business Visa (B1): A business visa is issued for the following purposes:

• Consulting business associates
• Negotiating a business contract
• Attending a scientific, business, or educational convention
• To settle an estate.

Tourism Visa (B2): A tourism visa is issued for the following purposes:

• Visiting family and friends residing in the US
• Medical treatment or procedures
• Tourism and leisure
• Participating in a music , sports, or social events, only if these activities do not result in any monetary remuneration
• Enrolling in certain recreational courses that do not count for credit towards a degree.

Documents Required for US Visitor Visa

The process of getting a visitor visa starts by filling up the non-immigration visa application form , DS-160 . You need to submit certain necessary documents along with the accurately filled application form. These documents include:

• Your original passport, which must be valid for at least six months after the completion of your intended visit to the US, along with all your old passports, if any.
• A digital as well as hard copy of your passport-sized photograph, according to the specifications set by the US government.
• The confirmation page that you have submitted the visa application form. 
• Proof of payment of the visa fee, as well as the original copy of your interview appointment letter.
• Documents verifying that you do not have any criminal history, in your home country or in any other country.
• Documents proving that you are financially capable of taking care of all expenses during your travels in America. Proof of financial ability can include recent bank statements, pay slips for the last three months, copies of your recent tax returns.
• In case you are visiting America to meet with relatives or friends or to attend an event, you will need to submit a letter of invitation or proof of the event.
• For those seeking medical treatment in the United States, documents from a doctor in their home country as well as a doctor and hospital in the United States accepting the person for treatment, must be attached.

Make sure your check and recheck the form and all the documents before submission, since any mistake or missing information could not just delay the visa approval, you could even risk being denied a visa.

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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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Required Documents for a U.S. Visitor Visa Interview

When preparing for a u.s. visitor visa interview, it is important to have the necessary documents in order. these typically include a valid passport, ds-160 confirmation page, visa application fee receipt, appointment letter, photograph, and supporting documents such as financial statements and travel itinerary. ensuring you have all the required documents will help make the visa interview process go smoothly..

Quick Glance:

Embarking on a journey to the United States requires a B1/B2 visitor visa and a successful interview at the embassy. Key documents include a valid passport, application form confirmation, interview appointment letter, and visa fee receipt. Financial and employment documentation and additional supporting documents can strengthen your application. Being prepared and organized for the interview is crucial. External resources and guidance from the U.S. Department of State can provide valuable information. Embarking on a journey to visit the United States is an exciting endeavor, whether for tourism, business, or family reunions. Applying for a visitor visa, specifically a B1/B2 visa, is an essential step in this journey. The interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate plays a pivotal role, and coming prepared with the correct documentation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your application. Let’s delve into what documents you need for a U.S. visitor visa interview, ensuring a smooth and less stressful process.

The Essential Checklist

When preparing for your visitor visa interview, having a complete set of documents is crucial. Each piece of paper acts as a puzzle piece in the larger picture of your travel story, showcasing your intent and readiness to abide by U.S. immigration laws.

• Passport : An up-to-date passport, valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States, is the first essential document you’ll need.
• Application Form Confirmation : You must fill out the DS-160, the online nonimmigrant visa application form. Once submitted, print and bring the confirmation page with the barcode.
• Interview Appointment Letter : Your appointment letter confirms the time and date of your scheduled interview at the consulate or embassy.
• Photograph : Bring a photograph in the format specified in the photograph requirements for visa applications. It’s also wise to upload a digital photo while filling out your DS-160 form.
• Visa Fees Receipt : Proof that you’ve paid the visa application fee is mandatory to show that your application has been processed.

Financial and Employment Documentation

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Traveling with a passport after a name change: guidance and steps, i-140 renewal after job transfer: is it necessary.

Illustrating that you have strong ties to your home country and the means to support yourself financially during your U.S. visit is essential. For this, prepare to show:

• Bank Statements : Recent bank statements that reflect a stable financial history.
• Employment Verification : A letter from your employer outlining your position, salary, the tenure of employment, and the vacation time approved for your trip can be very persuasive.

Additional Supporting Documents

The following documents may not be mandatory but can bolster your application:

• Travel Itinerary : If you have already planned your trip, present your travel itinerary including flight reservations, hotel bookings, or a letter from a sponsoring friend or family member in the U.S.
• Invitation Letter : If visiting friends or family, an invitation letter can be helpful. This should include the host’s contact information, relationship to the applicant, and details about the visit.
• Property or Business Ownership : Documents that show property or business ownership in your home country signify strong social and economic ties, increasing the credibility of your intent to return home.

For Specific Visitor Visa Types

• B1 Applicants : If you’re applying as a business visitor, include documents such as an invitation from the U.S. company you’ll be visiting, a letter from your employer, and business records to establish the purpose of your trip.
• B2 Applicants : For those visiting for tourism or medical reasons, bring letters from doctors, event information, or any other evidence that supports the purpose of your trip.

Preparing for the Interview

Arriving well-prepared for your visa interview is half the battle won. Organize your documents in an accessible manner and familiarize yourself with their content so you can present them confidently when requested. Remember, the consulate or embassy officers see numerous applicants daily, so making their job easy can leave a positive impact.

External resources for additional guidance are your allies. You can find comprehensive information and updates on the U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs website. This site is an invaluable resource, providing the latest on visa policies and procedures.

In Conclusion

Obtaining a U.S. visitor visa is a process that demands careful attention to detail. By compiling and presenting the above documents clearly and coherently, your visa interview should progress more smoothly. Remember, the intent of these documents is to answer two key questions for the consular officer: “What is the purpose of your visit?” and “Will you return home after your trip?” Adequately addressing these points can effectively move you towards a successful visa interview outcome, allowing you to embark on your U.S. adventure.

So, there you have it – the essential checklist for your U.S. visitor visa interview! Remember, don’t let the process stress you out. Just gather those puzzle pieces – passport, confirmation form, appointment letter, photograph, and visa fee receipt – and you’ll be well on your way. And hey, if you want more insider tips and guidance, check out visaverge.com. Happy travels, my friend!

FAQ’s to know:

FAQ 1: What documents are required for a U.S. visitor visa interview?

Answer: The essential documents for a U.S. visitor visa interview include a valid passport, the DS-160 application form confirmation, the interview appointment letter, a photograph meeting the specified requirements, and proof of having paid the visa application fee. Additionally, it is important to provide financial and employment documentation such as recent bank statements and an employment verification letter. While not mandatory, additional supporting documents such as a travel itinerary, invitation letter, and evidence of property or business ownership can strengthen your application.

FAQ 2: What should B1 visa applicants bring to the U.S. visitor visa interview?

Answer: B1 visa applicants, who are applying as business visitors, should bring specific documents to their U.S. visitor visa interview. These include an invitation letter from the U.S. company they will be visiting, a letter from their employer stating their position, salary, employment tenure, and approved vacation time for the trip. Additionally, presenting any relevant business records that establish the purpose of the trip can be beneficial.

FAQ 3: What is the importance of preparing for a U.S. visitor visa interview?

Answer: Preparing for a U.S. visitor visa interview is crucial to increase the chances of a successful outcome. By organizing your documents in an accessible manner and familiarizing yourself with their content, you can confidently present them when requested. Consulate or embassy officers process numerous applications daily, so making their job easier by being prepared can leave a positive impact. Utilizing external resources, such as the U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs website, can provide comprehensive information and updates on visa policies and procedures to further assist in preparation.

What did you learn? Answer below to know:

• True/False: A valid passport is not necessary when applying for a visitor visa to the United States.
• Multiple Choice: Which of the following documents is considered essential for a U.S. visitor visa interview? a) Bank statements b) Travel itinerary c) Employment verification letter d) All of the above
• Short Answer: What are the two key questions the consular officer aims to answer during a U.S. visitor visa interview?

Did you Know?

Did You Know?

• False. A valid passport is the first essential document required for a U.S. visitor visa. It must be up-to-date and valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the United States.
• d) All of the above. Essential documents for a U.S. visitor visa interview include a valid passport, the DS-160 application form confirmation, the interview appointment letter, a photograph meeting the specified requirements, and proof of having paid the visa application fee. Additionally, financial and employment documentation, as well as additional supporting documents like a travel itinerary, invitation letter, and evidence of property or business ownership, can strengthen your application.
• “What is the purpose of your visit?”
• “Will you return home after your trip?”
• Did you know that the United States has a program called Diversity Visa Lottery? This program awards permanent residence status to 50,000 applicants from countries with low immigration rates to the U.S. each year. The program aims to promote diversity and increase the multicultural fabric of the United States.

Did you know that Ellis Island in New York Harbor was the primary immigration station for immigrants coming to the United States from 1892 to 1954? Over 12 million immigrants were processed at Ellis Island during this time, making it a symbol of hope and opportunity for people seeking a better life in America.

Did you know that the United States has implemented various immigration laws throughout history? One notable law is the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, which was the first major law restricting immigration based on ethnicity. It prohibited the immigration of Chinese laborers, leading to a significant decrease in Chinese immigration to the United States for several decades.

Did you know that Angel Island, located in San Francisco Bay, served as an immigration station for Asian immigrants entering the United States from 1910 to 1940? Often referred to as the “Ellis Island of the West,” Angel Island processed hundreds of thousands of immigrants, primarily from China and other Asian countries. Many immigrants were detained for long periods, undergoing extensive questioning and medical examinations.

Did you know that the Statue of Liberty, a famous symbol of freedom and immigration, was a gift from France to the United States? It was dedicated in 1886 and has served as a welcoming symbol for immigrants arriving in New York City. The statue’s official name is “Liberty Enlightening the World.”

Did you know that naturalization is the process through which foreign nationals become U.S. citizens? To qualify for naturalization, applicants must meet certain requirements, including residency, language proficiency, and knowledge of U.S. history and government. Once naturalized, individuals have the same rights and responsibilities as those who were born in the United States.

Did you know that the United States has a refugee resettlement program? The U.S. Refugee Admissions Program provides protection, support, and assistance to individuals fleeing persecution in their home countries. Refugees undergo a rigorous vetting process before being resettled in the United States, and they have the opportunity to rebuild their lives and contribute to their new communities.

Remember, immigration is a complex and multifaceted topic with many intriguing aspects to explore. These facts provide just a glimpse into the diverse history and processes surrounding immigration to the United States.

Learn Today: Key Terms Explained

Glossary or Definitions:

B1/B2 Visitor Visa: The B1/B2 visitor visa is a nonimmigrant visa category that allows individuals to enter the United States for temporary visits for either business (B1) or tourism (B2) purposes. It is commonly used for activities such as attending conferences, meetings, or exploring tourist attractions.

Embassy: An embassy is a diplomatic mission of one country in another. In the context of immigration, the embassy is responsible for processing visa applications, conducting interviews, and making decisions on visa approvals.

DS-160: The DS-160 is an online nonimmigrant visa application form required for most U.S. visa categories, including the B1/B2 visitor visa. It collects personal information and details about the purpose of the visit.

Financial Documentation: Financial documentation refers to the documents that demonstrate an applicant’s ability to financially support themselves during their visit to the United States. This may include bank statements, employment verification, or any other evidence of stable financial history.

Employment Verification: Employment verification is a document provided by an applicant’s employer that confirms their position, salary, employment tenure, and approved vacation time for the trip. It helps establish the purpose of the visit and the applicant’s ties to their home country.

Supporting Documents: Supporting documents are additional documents that are not mandatory but can strengthen an applicant’s visa application. Examples include a travel itinerary, invitation letter, or proof of property or business ownership.

Consulate: A consulate is a smaller diplomatic mission of a country located in a different city or region within another country. It typically serves the same functions as an embassy, including visa processing and interviews.

Visa Application Fee: The visa application fee is a mandatory payment made by visa applicants to cover the processing costs for their visa application. It serves as proof that the application has been processed.

Interview Appointment Letter: The interview appointment letter is a document that confirms the date and time of an applicant’s scheduled interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate.

U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs: The U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs is a government agency responsible for overseeing the visa application process, providing information on visa policies and procedures, and issuing visas. Their website is a valuable resource for visa applicants.

Business Visitor (B1) : B1 visa applicants are individuals who visit the United States for business purposes, such as attending meetings, conferences, or negotiations. They must provide specific documents, such as an invitation letter from a U.S. company they will be visiting and business records, to establish the purpose of their trip.

Tourism Visitor (B2): B2 visa applicants are individuals who visit the United States for tourism or medical reasons. They may need to provide supporting documents like letters from doctors, event information, or any other evidence that supports the purpose of their trip.

Intent to Return Home: The consular officer aims to determine whether the applicant has a genuine intent to return to their home country after their visit to the United States. This is assessed based on the purpose of the visit, financial stability, and ties to the home country.

Passport: A passport is an official government-issued travel document that serves as identification and allows an individual to travel internationally. It must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended period of stay in the United States.

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• Visa Requirements
• United States Of America

US Tourist Visa Requirements - Documents, Eligibility & Fees

Indian passport holders who are willing to apply for a US Tourist visa can find the necessary visa information on this page. In the following, you can find USA Tourist visa requirements which mainly include the visa documents and eligibility criteria. General guidelines to be followed at the time of submission of United States Of America Tourist visa documents are mentioned on the page. For further visa consultation, you can contact BTW Visa Executives.

• Tourist Visa
• Business Visa
• Dependant Visa

Following is the list of documents required for US Tourist visa for Indians.

A passport is a document that is required at the time of international travels. It is issued by the government of the country to verify the identity and nationality of the candidate.

The submitted passport must meet the parameters given below

• It must be original and genuine.
• It must be provided with a copy of the first and the last page.
• It must be valid for 6 months ahead of the span of stay.
• It must have minimum of two blank pages for the visa stamp.
• It must not be torn, ripped, split, or damaged in any kind of way.

One cannot cross international boundries without the passport. It is considered a criminal offense otherwise.

An old passport is a passport that has expired or is completely stamped. In the visa processing, it is required to track the travel history of the applicant.

If available, the old passport must also be provided meeting the given criteria

• If the traveller has an old passport, it must be submitted along with the latest passport.
• It must be original and in a good condition to access the required information.

Without the old passport, you cannot get the visa stamp. Professional visa consultation is recommended.

The photo is provided to the authority so that you can be identified based on the same.

The photographs must be provided as per the given photo specifications

• It must have a matt finish
• It must be provided with two colored copies
• It must be clicked on a white background
• It must cover the face in 70% of the frame.
• It must be clicked on a white background.
• It must be provided with two coloured copies.
• It must be of dimensions 50mm x 50mm.
• It must have a matt finish.
• It must be a recent photograph.
• The expressions on the face must be neutral, there must not be any kind of smiling of frowning in the photograph.
• Any kind of glasses must not be worn in the photograph.
• The hair must be tied back so that the face is clearly visible.
• The ears must be visible clearly.
• It must not have any headgear worn apart from religious reasons.
• It is to be taken care that your teeth do not show in the photograph.

Recent pictures are mandatory as old pictures can cause the authorities to reject your application.

Bank statement is a document that issued from the bank. This is obtained for the savings bank account to show ratify if you will be able to support your stay in the country.

The Bank statement is a mandatory document and it should meet the following criteria

• It must be evident of healthy balance amount in the account.
• It should have the seal and signature acquired on every page.
• It must be provided with authentic seal and signature from the bank.
• It must be printed on an A4-size paper.
• It must be original and should have the bank's stamp and signature on every page.

If the Bank Statement doesn't show enough funds or shows irrelevant expenditure, it could lead to visa rejection on financial means. Professional visa consultation is recommended.

An income tax return is a document that is a record of the tax that is paid to the government by the concerned tax paying citizen.

The proof of income tax returns must match the provided parameters

• The Income tax returns should be specified with an ITR-V for last 3 years.
• It must be provided with a legitimate documentary proof of the payment of income tax.

One cannot leave the country if they do not provide appropriate proof of tax payment. Professional visa consultation is recommended.

Itinerary is a travel document that contains the details of travel schedule of the one who is going on the trip.

It is an important document and it should be submitted for the given reason

• It must mention the day to day schedule and plans and program while in the country.

The itinerary must have proper and detailed information of the traveller's routine. Even if a single detail is missed out, it could affect the visa interview. Professional visa consultation is recommended.

For detailed information, Please go through US Tourist Visa - Definitive Guide

Eligibility for getting United States Of America Tourist Visa:

In order to be eligible to travel to the country on a visa, you will have to meet the following eligibility criteria.

Be a genuine traveller- You must have a valid and good intention behind travelling to the country.

Eligible to bear all expenses - You must possess sufficient funds to support yourself and any dependents throughout the stay.

Reasons to return - You must have strong ties in your home country that will ensure that you will return after your stay.

Be of good character - You must have a clean criminal track record and be of good character. You may have to provide PCC (Police Clearance Certificate) for the same.

Be in good health - You must at least meet the minimum health requirements required by the authorities.

• You must be a genuine travelling enthusiast wanting to explore the country.
• You must already have the necessary travel arrangements made to prove your intention to visit.

Visa Fees for United States Of America Tourist Visa:

*Important Note:

Embassy/Consulate reserves the right to ask for additional documents or personal appearance for an interview in special cases. Submission of the above-mentioned documents does not guarantee that a visa is granted, so It's recommonded to get the professional visa consultation. Submission of incomplete documentation or refusal to appear for a special visa interview may result in the rejection of your visa application .

Although the information on this website has been prepared with utmost care. However, regulations and requirements are subject to change.

To know all details like process, eligibility, fees etc. Please refer US Tourist Visa

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel. 

The authorities in the US set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the US Embassy or a consulate in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering the US.

Passport validity requirements

To enter the US, your passport must be valid for the length of your planned stay.

If you’re travelling through another country on your way to or from the US, check the entry requirements for that country. Many countries will only allow entry if you have at least 6 months validity remaining on your passport. 

Dual nationals  

US law requires US citizens to enter and exit the US using a US passport. Contact the US Embassy or a consulate in the UK for more information.

Visa requirements

To enter or transit through the US, you must have either an  Electronic System for Travel Authorisation ( ESTA ) visa waiver  or a visa .

The US State Department has more information on visas .

Applying for an ESTA visa waiver 

Apply for an ESTA visa waiver through US Customs and Border Protection. You can also apply using the ESTA Mobile app .

You cannot apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you have:

• been arrested (even if the arrest did not result in a criminal conviction)
• a criminal record
• been refused admission into, or have been deported from the US
• previously overstayed under an ESTA visa waiver

You cannot normally apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you were in the following countries on or after March 2011: 

• North Korea

You cannot apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you travelled to or were in Cuba on or after 12 January 2021. 

If you are not eligible for an ESTA , you must instead apply for a US visa.

Applying for a visa

The US Embassy in London has information on how to apply for a visa .

US visa appointments

Visa appointments at the US Embassy in London are limited. Plan your application as far ahead as possible before travel. If you need to travel urgently, you can request an expedited interview through the US Embassy’s appointment service provider.

The US Embassy has more information on visa appointments .

Children and young people

Anyone aged 17 and under must:

• have a valid visa or ESTA visa waiver on arrival
• be able to provide evidence about the purpose, location and length of their visit if asked by immigration officials
• have written consent from one or both parents if travelling alone, with only one parent, or with someone who is not a parent or legal guardian

The US authorities can stop you entering the country if they have safeguarding concerns about a child. If this happens, the US authorities will take the child into their care, and their return from the US could take months. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot speed up the return of British nationals aged 17 and under from the US.

The US government has information about children travelling to the US . If you have questions, contact the US Embassy in the UK .

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s US guide .

Customs rules 

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of the US . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Global Entry programme

The US Customs and Border Protection programme Global Entry allows pre-approved travellers through border control faster at some US airports. If you’re a British citizen, you can  register to get a UK background check . If you pass the background checks, you’ll be invited to apply for Global Entry.

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• List of Documents Required for USA Visitor Visa From India

What Are The Documents Required For USA Visitor Visa From India?

Updated On Oct 23, 2023

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Table of Contents [ Show ]

1. Mandatory Documents for a US Visit Visa

2. supporting documents based on your tourist visa type, 3. documents required for your b1/b2 visa interview, 4. documents for the visit purpose proof, 5. if visiting for medical treatment, 6. documents for intent to depart from the usa at the end of the trip, how to prove your financial stability, documents required for renewal of usa visitor visa from india.

Are you all set for your exciting journey to the United States? Well, when it comes to applying for a USA visitor visa, having all the documents required for a visitor visa to the USA from India is absolutely essential.

Missing even one crucial piece of paperwork could lead to your visa being denied. So, let's go through the checklist of the important types of documents required for a tourist visa USA you'll need to prepare for your US visitor visa application.

Documents Required for USA Visitor Visa from India

What do you believe are the different Visitor Visa for USA documents required for your successful visa application? Let’s find out…

The set of essential documents required for a tourist visa to the USA from India that every US tourist visa applicant must provide:

• Valid Passport: Make sure your passport is up-to-date with plenty of blank pages.
• Travel Itinerary: Have a clear plan for your trip, including your intended dates of travel and the places you plan to visit.
• Dates of Your Last 5 Visits to the USA: If you've been to the US before, you'll need this information.
• Resume or CV: Prepare a document outlining your professional history.
• Photograph (as per specifications): Ensure your photo meets the official requirements.

Moving to the next let us find out what supporting documents are required for a USA visitor visa.

Now, the documents you need can vary depending on your specific purpose for visiting the USA like for tourism, medical assistance, etc, one by one let us learn the individual requirements as per the purpose of visit:

• For Tourism & Pleasure
• Proof of Funds for Expenses in the USA: This includes bank statements, passbook copies, and information on fixed deposits and mutual funds.
• Travel Itinerary
• 1-Year-Old Income Tax Returns (ITR)
• Business Card (if applicable)
• For Visiting Family or Attending Family Events
• Letter of Invitation from a Family Member or Event Host
• Event Invitation Proof
• For Spouse (B-1) or Children Requesting Dependent Visa (B-2)
• Copy of B-1 Visa and Passport (if pending, apply for it)
• Letter of Invitation from the B-1 Visa Holder
• Letter to Embassy Consulate Requesting Visa for Spouse or Children
• Letter from the Company Stating the B-1 Visa Holder's Ability to Care for Dependents
• Proof of Funds for Expenses and a Sponsorship Letter

Now that you are well-versed with the documents required for a visitor visa to the USA from India. Next in the row is to identify which documents you would need to carry for your interview with the US consulate.

Please note that the original documents are crucial for your visa interview at the US consulate general, these include:

• Valid Passport
• Photograph (as per specifications)
• Visa Application Form DS 160
• Visa Fee Payment Receipt
• US Visa Appointment Letter PrintOut
• Supporting Documents Based on Your Visit Purpose

We agree that you are aiming to apply for a USA visitor visa for the purpose of family visits or for travel and tourism, etc. Hence what are the specific documents that would support your claim for the travel purpose? This category varies based on your visa type:

• To and From Flight Tickets
• Accommodation Details
• Invitation Letter from Friends or Family (if applicable)
• Information on US-Based Business Associates and Your Business Card (for business visits)
• Proof of Event, Invitation Card, and Brochure (if attending an event)

Are you flying to the USA to avail better medical facilities? In such a case for medical treatment, you'll need three specific documents:

• Medical Diagnosis from a Local Physician
• Letter from the US Medical Facility or Physician
• Proof of Payment in the US for Transportation, Medical, and Living Expenses

Last but not least, how would you justify your intent to return to your origin country before the US consulate? To solve your this query explore the next section for the list of documents that would suffice your claim and intent to return

How do you prove your intent to return back? Well, since proving your intention to return home after your visit is important you'll need documents like:

• Employment Letter from Your Home Country
• Family Ties Proof (Birth Certificates, Property Documents, etc.)

Irrespective of the visa type it is crucial to meet the financial requirements (proof of funds) set for the specific immigration or travel criteria. The documents you could include as financial proof for paying for your stay in the USA and to demonstrate your ability to cover your expenses in the US are as follows:

• One or More Past Year Income Tax Returns
• Recent Bank Statements
• Proof of Visitor Health Insurance

When renewing your USA visitor visa from India, you'll need a specific set of documents to support your application. Here's a list of the typical documents required for the renewal of a US visitor visa:

• Current, Valid Passport
• Previous US Visa
• DS-160 Confirmation Page
• Passport-Size Photos
• Visa Renewal Application Fee Payment Receipt
• I-797 Approval Notice (if applicable)
• Current Visa Renewal Appointment Confirmation Letter
• Old Passport with Previous US Visa (if applicable)
• I-20 Form (for F-1 visa holders) or DS-2019 Form (for J-1 visa holders)
• SEVIS Fee Receipt
• Financial Documentation
• Proof of Ties to India
• Letter of Intent
• Other Supporting Documents
• Police Clearance Certificate (if required)
• Medical Examination Results (if required)

Seek GetGIS for the Right Guidance to Documentation Requirements as per Your Visa Type

As part of the visa application journey, it is crucial to note that it's not just about having the right documents, rather it's also about presenting them accurately and honestly. Have more queries on How and What regarding your abroad visa application process, GetGIS is at your disposal.

Our Immigration experts ensure that you just not have to rush through your application journey but rather ensure that you are well prepared, informed, and most importantly have the seamless experience, that any other could provide you with.

Ensure to double-check everything, and good luck with your USA visitor visa application! Safe travels await you

Useful Links:

• Everything You Need to Know About Intakes in USA
• Scholarship for Indian Students in USA: All You Need to Know
• Cost of Study in the USA for International Students in 2023
• Average Cost of Living in the USA for Students & Immigrants

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a USA visitor visa?

What are the main types of USA visitor visas?

How long can I stay in the USA on a visitor visa?

Can I extend my visitor visa to the USA?

How long does it take to process a visitor visa application?

What are the common reasons for visa denials?

Practice IELTS Speaking Based on other question types

Lakshmi Lavanya Pagallu , 

Sr. Content Marketing Specialist

Lakshmi Lavanya Pagallu has been working as Content Marketing Specialist with GetGIS since 2022 and has been extensively working to help candidates’ career transitions. Her experience spans across multiple industries in the fields of Sales and Marketing. Her core competencies include communication and research, which enable her to create and deliver in-depth guides as a Subject Matter Expert

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How To Apply For China's Tourist Visa: Easy Step-By-Step Guide

I had never been as frustrated with travel planning as when I was applying for my 10-year tourist visa to China this year.

I didn’t blame the fact that China required a visa, I blamed the confusing process of how to apply. The lack of a step-by-step guide for people in the USA mixed with the confusing lawyer-like language used in the China Embassy’s official documents = pure confusion on what to do.

After scouring the web to piece together the full process, I finally set out to apply for the 10-year tourist visa. In less than a week of applying online , I picked up my visa and was good to travel for the next 10 years!

Looking back on it, I’m glad I got it over with early on in my travel planning process. I would’ve hated to have to deal with all of this 1-2 weeks before my trip!

For reference, I applied for the 10-year tourist visa in April, but my trip wasn’t until November.

Once you figure out HOW to apply and actually submit your application, it’s really not too bad. Especially since I’ve created this easy-to-understand guide to walk you through all the steps you need to apply for your very own China tourist visa.

NOTE: This guide is for US citizens applying for the tourist visa (L) within the USA. I don’t have experience with any other countries/nationalities, thanks!

Before Applying For The China Tourist Visa: Things You Need To Know

• The first and most important thing I need to mention: there is no way of applying for a China visa completely online . You will need to physically provide your passport to a visa office at some point. There’s no way around this, and that’s because they need to stick your new China visa onto one of the pages in your passport.
• You must start by completing a visa application form to apply for a China visa. This can be done online or on paper.
• You’ll then need to submit your visa application form + supporting documents to a China Visa Application Service Center (this is a physical place). These are going to be at a Chinese embassy or consulate somewhere in the USA. There are multiple locations.
• You can’t just choose any location you feel like. You have to go to the one that services your state/area. More on this later.
• a recently-taken color photo behind a white wall (can be uploaded digitally if filling out the application online, or a physical photo if applying on paper application)
• a valid passport
• printed out visa application + confirmation letter
• other supporting documents (more on this later)
• You’ll need to visit the visa office twice: first to submit your application, then again in 3-4 days to pick up your passport (with your brand new China visa inside).
• You can apply in person for yourself, have someone else turn in the forms for you / pick up your visa for you, or pay a travel agency to do it all for you.
• That’s the general overview of the process. Let’s dive into the details a bit more.

Step 1: Find a consulate location that services your area.

The first thing you’ll want to do is locate which Consulate General location you’ll have to go to in order to apply for (and pick up) your visa. You can use this link to see all the current locations.

You CANNOT pick one randomly, you can only go to the one that services your area.

So how do you know which consulate you have to go to? Locate where you live on this list or this list . Your state/region will be listed under one of the consulates. That’s the one you’ll need to go to.

For example, I live in Northern California, so I had to go to the Consulate General in San Francisco . If you live in Utah, your assigned location is the Embassy in Washington DC.

Also, note that the area formerly serviced by the Houston consulate is temporarily being serviced by the Embassy in the United States (DC location) as the one in Houston closed down.

Step 2: Fill out the COVA application

Start your online application . Go to the China Online Visa Application (COVA) and fill out the application using your information.

You’ll be asked all kinds of questions: personal information, the type of visa you’re applying for, how long you want it for, names of family members (parents), work history, emergency contact info, where you’re going to be traveling to in China and on what dates, where you’ve traveled to in the last 12 months, etc.

I would allot 30 minutes of your time to fill out the whole application. It felt like forever when I was applying, but I think it took me about 30 minutes. You can always save your progress if you need to look up information and revisit the application process at a later time.

Just be sure to note your application ID so you can pull it up later.

I’ll give you some pointers on how I filled out my application because some questions were quite confusing.

• One of the first things you need to do is upload your passport photo. I took a selfie against a wall and used Lightroom to turn my gray background white. The system accepted the photo. (Background must be white!)
• For Given name(s), it should include your first name followed by any middle name(s). It needs to match the name on the passport.
• For National ID number, I applied with N/A
• For Type of Visa, I selected (L) Tourism. Here are the rest of the visa types for reference.
• For Visa Duration, I entered 120 months with a maximum stay of 60 days. I also chose “multiple” for the number of entries.
• For Itinerary information, I ballparked my travel dates from city to city (Hong Kong – Xi’An – Chengdu – Chongqing) as I had not yet booked my flights, but I gave the best estimate I could based on where we were in the trip planning process.
• Since they are no longer requiring flight confirmations and hotel confirmations, the trip itinerary section doesn’t need to be very detailed. Addresses of hotels didn’t seem to even be required fields (I filled out half of them for the ones we had already booked).
• For Work Experience info, I did the best I could but it’s okay not to be exact. For example, I included my previous employer’s general phone number instead of my supervisor’s number. You can also provide a quick description of your job duties (my example: “blogger/travel writer”). No need to go into detail.

Normally visa applications take 3-4 days to process, but you can specify in this application to expedite it (2-3 days).

I chose not to expedite my application. I applied on a Monday and received a pick-up date of Thursday .

How quickly do you need the visa?

• If you live in the area and can get to the visa office pretty easily, no need to expedite.
• If you’re traveling from out-of-state to apply, you’ll probably want to expedite to save on an extra night’s worth of hotel costs.
• If your trip’s departure is like next week, you’ll probably want to expedite to be on the safe side!

Should you apply for a 3-month visa or a 10-year visa? The visa process is the same regardless if you apply for 3 months or 10 years. Moreover, it’s currently the same price!

My entire family and I went for the 10-year option as we knew we’d be visiting China a lot once my parents retired!

Step 3: Print out/gather all your documents.

Once you finish filling out the application, you’ll get a confirmation letter that looks like it’s got QR codes on it. You’ll have to print this out along with a few other things to bring to the visa office.

Here’s the full list that was required of me when I was applying (April 2024). Be sure to check for the latest requirements !!!

• Confirmation letter – you need to print and sign this
• Completed visa application – you need to print and sign this (on the last page)
• Your physical passport
• Photocopy of your passport’s bio page (the page that shows the photo and the document number)
• Proof of residence documentation (a photocopy of your ID, bank statement, utility bill, etc.)
• I did single-sided printing and printed pages in color just in case.
• When you print the visa application, make sure to include the confirmation page as the first page.
• I did not bring a physical copy of my photo since I had uploaded it along with my online application. This was not asked for at the visa center either.

Step 4: Show up at the visa center.

At the time of writing, you can’t make appointments online. They are taking walk-ins only.

When you are looking for the address of where to go, look for the consulate’s Visa Application Office , not the general Embassy address.

For example, I GPS’ed to the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in San Francisco . Once I got to the door (on Laguna St.), I saw a sign letting visa application visitors know that the Visa Application Office was on the street perpendicular to where I was (Geary Blvd.).

Depending on the time you visit, be prepared to wait.

I showed up at 9:15am on a Monday (15 minutes before they opened) and there were at least 70 people in line in front of me. Despite the crazy-sounding line, it didn’t take as long as I had anticipated! I was out of there by 10:55am.

PRO TIP: For the SF location, show up near closing time as opposed to first thing in the morning. I asked the security guard when the best time to visit was for the shortest lines, and he told me “at the end of the day, right before we close”.

This may vary by location, so take that tip with a grain of salt! But when I went to pick up my visa 3 days later, I showed up at 1:50pm (the visa office closed at 2:30pm) — and he was right — no lines! There must have been 10 people in the entire office compared to my initial visit where there were 100+ people waiting at the same time.

Once you’re there, hand all of your documents to the visa processer. He/she will look your application over (rather quickly) and make sure you have all the necessary docs. They will then take all of your documents (including your passport) for processing/approval.

If all looks good, you’ll get a slip of paper (pick-up slip) telling you exactly what date to come back to pick up your passport. You can come anytime on that date. Again, no appointment is needed.

My experience: For proof of residence, I had actually just brought my physical driver’s license instead of making a photocopy of it. The lady told me I had to go to make a photocopy of it, then go back to her window once I was done with that.

Luckily, the office had a set of photocopiers (costs $0.25 per page) as well as passport photobooths (for people who forget to bring photos for their applications). Bring quarters or some dollar bills in case you need to use the copy machine.

Step 5: Pick up your passport.

After a few days, it’s time to go back to pick up your passport. When you go to pick up your passport, you will pay for the visa at this time.

There’s a separate line that moves much faster for passport pick-ups. For my pick-up, I was in and out of the visa office in under 10 minutes.

Since a lot of people applying for China visas are from out of state, they often worry about how long it takes to pick up their passports.

Again, in general, your passport will be ready in 2-4 days, depending on if you choose expedited service.

Also, you don’t even need to be the one showing up at the visa office! Per the Los Angeles consulate site , “visa applications may be submitted in person by the applicant or someone else with the passport and all supporting documents”.

Once you flip through your passport booklet, you’ll find a brand-new visa glued to one of your passport pages. Viola ! You are ready to go to China!

Lastly, stay updated with the latest info!

The latest info/updates will always be on the China Visa Applications website . I know, it’s hard to read because of how outdated and simple the site looks, but there’s always useful info on there.

Like when I was applying, I was able to see that they had recently reduced the visa fee to $140, regardless of how long the visa’s duration is. And that at the end of 2023, they had actually simplified the visa application to not require flight confirmations, proof of hotel reservation, or invitation letters.

Meanwhile, all the other outdated websites and blog posts out there mentioned needing an invitation letter.

To be clear, as of April 2024 (when I wrote this), invitation letters are NOT required.

Always refer to the China Visa Applications website for the latest info!

Hope this step-by-step guide to applying for the China tourist visa was helpful. You can message me if you have any additional questions about applying for a tourist visa as a US citizen.

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