U.S. Visitor Visa | Application Process and Interview Tips

Applying for a U.S. Visitor visa can be a tedious and time-consuming process, especially if you’re not sure where to start, what documents you need, and how long everything might take. There are steps you need to follow and deadlines you have to meet. VisaExpress consultants are here to provide online support and we make sure that you have everything ready right on time!

Before we discuss the requirements, application process, and interview tips, let us first see what a visitor visa entails and what possibilities it offers.

Why do I need a Visitor visa?

If you wish to travel to the United States for business, pleasure, or medical treatment, you will need to apply for a U.S. Visitor visa, also known as the B1/B2 visa. This visa falls into the category of nonimmigrant visas. It allows you to stay in the U.S. for up to 6 months, with the possibility of extension. It is important to note that there are three types of U.S. Visitor visas:

• Business visa (B1),
• Tourist visa (B2),
• A combination of the two (B1/B2).

If you’re visiting the U.S. to attend a conference, negotiate a contract, settle an estate, or conduct any sort of business during your brief stay, you will need to apply for the B1 business visa. If the purpose of your travel is to visit relatives or friends in the U.S., explore the country as a tourist, participate in a contest, or undergo medical treatment, then you will need to apply for the B2 tourist visa. In case you plan to take care of business, and also to visit relatives or friends and take a short holiday while in the U.S., then the B1/B2 visa is the right one for you.

U.S. Visitor visa requirements and application process

Before you start the process, whether you opt for a B1 visa, B2 visa, or a combination of both, you will need to fulfill certain requirements. To qualify for a U.S. Visitor visa, you must:

• plan to remain in the U.S. for a limited period, the purpose of your trip being business, pleasure, or medical treatment;
• have sufficient financial means to cover the expenses of your trip and your stay in the United States;
• have ties to your home country that will ensure your return.

To see if you qualify for a U.S. Visitor visa, check out our Visitor visa eligibility check.

After the eligibility check, the next step in the process is gathering the necessary documentation. First, you will have to fill out and submit your DS-160 online application form. Our U.S. visa agents are here to provide online support. We review and submit your application, update you on the progress, and answer any questions you may have.

Know the limits

The U.S. Visitor visa allows you to stay in the United States for a maximum of 180 days per entry. With this visa type, you’re not allowed to seek permanent employment in the States and once your visa expires, you’ll be required to return to your home country. You cannot enroll in a study program, participate in paid, professional performances, work on a ship or airplane as a crewmember, or work in information media.

Start the process

Having in mind the situation with Covid-19, the visa processing time in the U.S. embassies and consulates might be prolonged. The new restrictions might be imposed and that can result in a longer processing time of your visa application, so the sooner you apply the better! In order to keep up with the latest updates and restrictions on U.S. visas, you can turn to VisaExpress. Our experienced agents assist you throughout the process and put their efforts together to maximize your visa approval chances. We offer you professional assistance, submit your application without delay, and our customer service representatives available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have.

At the interview

The Embassy interview is a crucial part of the visa application process and it would be a good idea that you practice beforehand. This will ease your anxiety and you’ll feel more confident during your interview. As a part of our VIP services, we offer you an online mock Embassy interview with your dedicated consultant. You’ll receive live feedback, with tips on how to improve your performance. If you’re interested in finding out more about the services we offer, you can learn more on our official U.S. Visitor Visa page.

On the day of your interview appointment, arrive early at the Embassy or Consulate—you don’t want to miss the interview because you got stuck in traffic. You should dress formally and avoid wearing flashy clothes. Although the interview can be a stressful experience, try not to show any signs of impatience. When answering questions, be honest and concise, and never lie to the Consular Officer. In case you don’t understand a question, don’t be afraid to say that and ask for additional explanations. Always be polite, avoid arguing, and don’t forget to smile.

The visa processing time may take a couple of weeks or a few months, depending on the workload of the U.S. Embassy.

We’re here to provide online support and consultation, and in case you have any questions, even after you get your visa issued, you can always reach out to us.