United States Visa for Indian Passport Holders

Indian tourists need a B1/B2 visitor visa, involving an online DS-160 form and an in-person interview at a US consulate.

Visa required

Passport validity

Valid for the intended period of stay

Stay duration

Visa validity is often up to 10 years for multiple entries, but each stay is typically capped at 6 months per visit as decided by the immigration officer

Fee

MRV application fee set by the US Department of State (check current rate before applying)

Processing time

Interview wait times vary widely by consulate location and season — can range from weeks to several months

Documents required

Valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay
DS-160 confirmation page
Visa fee payment receipt
Recent US visa photograph meeting official specifications
Proof of ties to India (employment, property, family)
Financial documents showing ability to fund the trip
Travel itinerary (not mandatory but helpful)

Step-by-step: how to apply

1
Complete the DS-160 form online
Fill the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application on the US Department of State's official site.
2
Pay the MRV visa fee
Pay the application fee through the designated bank or online channel.
3
Schedule your OFC and interview appointments
Book an Offsite Facilitation Center (OFC) appointment for biometrics and a consulate interview slot.
4
Attend the OFC appointment
Provide fingerprints and photograph at the designated centre.
5
Attend the visa interview
Bring all required documents to your interview at the US Embassy/Consulate; answer questions about your travel plans and ties to India.
6
Await visa processing
If approved, your passport with the visa stamped in it is returned via courier or pickup.

Good to know

• Interview wait times can be long — check current appointment availability at your nearest consulate well before planning fixed travel dates.
• Be ready to clearly explain your travel purpose, itinerary and intent to return to India during the interview.
• A visa doesn't guarantee entry — final admission is decided by a US Customs and Border Protection officer at the port of entry.

Frequently asked questions

How long is a US B1/B2 visa valid?

Many Indian applicants receive visas valid for up to 10 years, but this depends on individual circumstances and reciprocity rules.

Do I need to show a fixed return ticket for the US visa interview?

It's not mandatory, but having a general travel plan and showing ties to India strengthens your application.

Official source & latest news

Official portal

US Department of State — Travel.State.Gov