B1/B2 Visitor Visa
Non-immigrant visa for temporary business (B1) or tourism/medical treatment (B2) purposes to the United States.
Quick Facts
Overview
The US B1/B2 visa is one of the most sought-after travel documents for Indian citizens. It allows you to visit the United States for business (B1) or tourism/medical treatment (B2) purposes. Most commonly, applicants receive a combined B1/B2 visa valid for 10 years with multiple entries allowed.
The application process involves completing an online form (DS-160), paying a visa fee, attending a biometric appointment, and appearing for a mandatory visa interview at the US Embassy or Consulate. The interview is a crucial part of the process where a consular officer will assess your ties to India, purpose of visit, and ability to fund your trip.
Indian applicants generally have a good approval rate (approximately 75-80%), especially if they demonstrate strong ties to India, stable employment, sufficient financial resources, and clear travel plans. The entire process from application to visa stamp typically takes 3-6 weeks.
Key Highlights
- Interview is mandatory for all first-time applicants aged 14-79
- Most approved visas are valid for 10 years with multiple entries
- No minimum bank balance requirement, but strong financials help
- Visa fee is $185 (₹15,400) plus VFS service fee
- Interview waivers available for certain renewal cases
- Processing time: 3-6 weeks on average
- Maximum stay: 6 months per visit (determined by officer)
Visa Types Available
Business Visitor Visa (B1)
For business-related activities, consultations, conferences, and negotiations
- • Business meetings and consultations
- • Attending conferences or seminars
- • Negotiating contracts
- • Estate settlement
- • Board meetings
Tourist Visa (B2)
For tourism, vacation, visiting friends/family, or medical treatment
- • Tourism and sightseeing
- • Visiting friends and relatives
- • Medical treatment
- • Participating in social events
- • Amateur entertainment or sports
Combined Business & Tourism Visa (B1/B2)
Most commonly issued visa combining both B1 and B2 purposes
- • Both business and tourism activities
- • Flexibility to travel for any permitted purpose
Step-by-Step Application Process
Complete DS-160 Form Online
Fill out the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (DS-160) on the CEAC website. Print the confirmation page with barcode.
⏱️ Duration: 30-45 minutes
→ Visit official website- 💡 Have your passport, travel dates, and employment details ready
- 💡 Upload a recent photo meeting specifications
- 💡 Save your application frequently
- 💡 Note down your DS-160 confirmation number
Pay Visa Fee
Pay the non-refundable visa application fee of $185 (approximately ₹15,400) through approved payment methods.
⏱️ Duration: 10 minutes
→ Visit official website- 💡 Fee is non-refundable even if visa is denied
- 💡 Payment receipt is valid for 1 year
- 💡 Keep the payment receipt number for scheduling
Schedule Interview Appointment
Create a profile on the US Visa Service and schedule your visa interview at the nearest US Embassy/Consulate.
⏱️ Duration: 15 minutes
→ Visit official website- 💡 Interview wait times vary by location and season
- 💡 Book as early as possible during peak season (May-August)
- 💡 You can reschedule twice without losing your fee
Attend Biometric Appointment (OFC)
Visit a Visa Application Center (VAC) for biometric fingerprinting and photo capture.
⏱️ Duration: 30-60 minutes
- 💡 Bring passport and DS-160 confirmation
- 💡 No electronic devices allowed inside
- 💡 Wear modest clothing for photo
Prepare Documents
Gather all required documents including passport, DS-160 confirmation, appointment letter, photographs, financial documents, employment proof, and travel itinerary.
⏱️ Duration: 2-3 days
- 💡 Original documents are preferred
- 💡 Carry documents in a clear folder
- 💡 Have extra copies of important documents
Attend Visa Interview
Appear for your visa interview at the scheduled date and time at the US Embassy/Consulate. Be prepared to answer questions about your trip purpose, ties to India, and financial situation.
⏱️ Duration: 2-4 hours (including waiting)
- 💡 Arrive 30 minutes early
- 💡 Dress formally
- 💡 Answer confidently and honestly
- 💡 No phones or bags allowed (only documents folder)
- 💡 Bring all original documents
Passport Delivery
If approved, your passport will be returned with the visa stamp within 3-5 working days via courier or you can collect it from the VAC.
⏱️ Duration: 3-5 working days
- 💡 Track your passport on the VFS website
- 💡 Verify all visa details are correct when you receive it
Fees Breakdown
| Visa Application Fee | USD 185 |
| VFS Service Fee | INR 2400 |
| Total (Approximate in INR) | ₹17,850 |
Last updated: 2025-01-15
⚠️ Important Warnings
- ⚠ Visa approval is never guaranteed - prepare thoroughly for interview
- ⚠ Visa fee is non-refundable even if visa is denied
- ⚠ Do not make non-refundable travel bookings before visa approval
- ⚠ Providing false information can lead to permanent visa ban
- ⚠ Student visas and work visas require different application types
- ⚠ Marriage or engagement in the US on B1/B2 visa can cause issues
Pro Tips for Success
Common Rejection Reasons & How to Avoid Them
Insufficient ties to home country (INA 214(b))
Most common rejection reason. Officer believes you may not return to India.
Demonstrate strong employment, property ownership, family ties, and clear return plans.
Lack of financial resources
Unable to show sufficient funds to cover US trip expenses.
Maintain healthy bank balance, show income proof, and prepare financial documents.
Suspected immigrant intent
Officer believes you intend to stay permanently in the US.
Show strong ties to India and convincing reason to return.
Unclear purpose of visit
Unable to explain trip purpose clearly or itinerary seems suspicious.
Have a clear, specific travel plan and be able to articulate it confidently.
Misrepresentation or fraud (INA 212(a)(6)(C)(i))
Providing false information or fraudulent documents.
Always be truthful. Never submit fake documents. This can lead to permanent ban.
Official Sources
- US Department of State - Visitor Visa (official)
- US Embassy & Consulates in India (official)
- US Travel Docs India (vfs)