Visa requirements
US Visa Requirements for Indians 2026: B1/B2 Tourist Visa Guide
Quick answer: Indian passport holders need a B1/B2 Visitor Visa. Apply online at the US Department of State site + book biometrics at US embassy/consulate. Cost: $160 application fee + $13 visa fee. Processing time: highly variable (currently 6-24 months wait for interview slots).
B1/B2 Visitor Visa
Standard tourism + business visitor visa for Indians. Can do tourism, family visits, business meetings, conferences, medical treatment. Cannot work or study (separate visa categories for those).
Application process
Complete DS-160 form online (US visa application system). Pay $160 fee. Schedule interview appointment at US embassy (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad). Attend interview. Receive decision.
Documents required
Passport valid 6+ months. DS-160 confirmation page. Recent passport photo. Visa fee receipt. Supporting documents (variable by case): bank statements, employment letter, tax returns, sponsor documents, travel itinerary.
Costs
B1/B2 visa application fee: $160. SEVIS fee (only for students): N/A for tourists. Visa issuance fee (for some nationalities): $0 for India typically. VFS Global service fees: variable.
Processing time
Currently 6-24 months wait for interview slot in major Indian cities (this changed dramatically post-pandemic). Once interview happens, decision is usually within 3-5 business days. Visa issuance: 1-2 weeks after approval.
Interview tips
Be honest. Have clear travel purpose. Demonstrate strong ties to India (job, property, family). Bring all supporting documents but only show if asked. Don’t volunteer information. Answer briefly + truthfully.
Common rejection reasons (refusal under 214b)
Failure to demonstrate ties to India. Suspected immigration intent. Insufficient finances. Previous visa overstay or fraud. Incomplete documentation.
Multiple-entry validity
If approved, US B1/B2 visa is typically issued for 10 years for Indian citizens (multiple entry). Each entry allows up to 6 months stay determined by CBP officer at airport.