USA Visitor Visa - Jas Overseas

Navigating Your Visit to the U.S.: A Clear Guide to Visitor Visa Types

When planning a temporary visit to the United States, it’s essential to apply for the correct type of visitor visa. The U.S. government offers specific non-immigrant visas for individuals traveling for either business or pleasure. The primary categories are the B-1, B-2, and a combination of the two, the B-1/B-2 visa.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of each type to help you determine which one is right for your travel needs.

B-1 Visa: For Business Purposes

The B-1 visa is designed for individuals entering the U.S. for temporary business-related activities. It is crucial to understand that this visa does not permit you to work or receive a salary from a U.S.-based employer.

B-1 visa include:

Consulting with Business Associates
Attending Conventions, Conferences, or Seminars
Negotiating Contracts
Settling an Estate
Short-term Training
Litigation

B-2 Visa: For Tourism, Pleasure, or Medical Treatment

The B-2 visa is for individuals traveling to the U.S. for recreational or personal reasons. This is the most common type of tourist visa.

B-2 visa include:

Tourism and Holidays
Visiting Friends and Relatives
Medical Treatment
Participation in Social Events
Amateur Participation in Events
Enrolling in a Short Recreational Course

B-1/B-2 Visa: The Combined Visa for Business and Pleasure

In practice, consular officers frequently issue a combined B-1/B-2 visa. This provides travelers with greater flexibility, allowing them to engage in both business and tourism activities during their stay in the United States.

For instance, an individual might travel to the U.S. primarily to attend a business conference (B-1 purpose) and then extend their stay for a week to go sightseeing and visit family (B-2 purpose). The B-1/B-2 visa accommodates such multi-purpose trips without the need for separate applications.

Understanding the Costs: Applicable Charges for a US Visitor Visa

Primary Charge: The Visa Application Fee

The most significant cost associated with a US visitor visa application is the Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee. This fee is a standard charge for processing your application and must be paid before you can schedule your visa interview.

Fee for Visitor Visa (B-1/B-2): $185 USD

Important Considerations for the Application Fee:

Indian Rupee Equivalent: The fee must be paid in Indian Rupees (INR). The exact amount will be based on the consular exchange rate in effect at the time of payment. As of mid-2025, this is approximately ₹16,095, but you must verify the current amount on the official U.S. visa scheduling website for India when you are ready to pay.
Non-Refundable: This fee is non-refundable, regardless of whether your visa application is approved or denied.
Non-Transferable: The fee receipt is tied to your name and passport number and cannot be transferred to another person.
Validity: The fee payment is valid for one year from the date of payment. You must schedule your visa appointment within this one-year period.

Document Requirements

Part I: Mandatory Documents for All Applicants

These documents are non-negotiable and form the foundation of your visa application. You must have these ready for both your biometric appointment at a Visa Application Center (VAC) and your visa interview at a US Consulate or Embassy.

Passport
DS-160 Confirmation Page
Visa Application Fee Receipt
Appointment Confirmation Letter
Photograph:
1. Specifications for 2025:
  1. Size: 2×2 inches (51×51 mm).
  2. Background: Plain white or off-white.
  3. Format: Taken within the last six months to reflect your current appearance.
  4. Expression: Neutral facial expression with both eyes open.
  5. Head Position: You must be directly facing the camera.
  6. Attire: Normal daily wear. Uniforms are not permitted, except for religious clothing worn daily.
  7. Eyeglasses: Not allowed in visa photos.

Part II: Supporting Documents to Strengthen Your Application

A. Evidence of Strong Ties to India

For Salaried Individuals:

Employment Verification Letter: An original letter from your employer on company letterhead stating your position, salary, date of joining, and that your leave for the trip has been approved.
Salary Slips: Recent salary slips for the last three to six months.
Income Tax Returns (ITR): ITR-V or computation of income for the last three years.

For Business Owners:

Business Registration: Proof of business ownership, such as the partnership deed, memorandum of association, or registration certificate.
Company Financials: Company bank statements for the last six months and ITRs for the last three years.

For Retired Individuals:

Pension Statements: Proof of pension received.
Retirement Proof: Letter from your former employer confirming your retirement.

Family Ties:

Marriage Certificate: If you are married.
Birth Certificates: For your children.
Family Photographs: Recent family pictures.
Letter of Responsibility: If you are a caregiver for elderly parents, a letter explaining your duties can be beneficial.

Property Ownership:

Property Deeds: Original deeds of any residential or commercial property you own.
Property Tax Receipts: Recent property tax payment receipts.

B. Proof of Financial Stability

You must prove that you can financially support your trip to the US.

Personal Bank Statements
Savings and Investments
Sponsorship (if applicable):
- Affidavit of Support (Form I-134)
- Sponsor’s Financial Documents
- Proof of Sponsor’s Status
- Invitation Letter

C. Purpose of Your Trip

Your reason for visiting the US must be clear and legitimate.

For Tourism:

Detailed Travel Itinerary
Hotel and Flight Bookings

For Visiting Family or Friends:

Invitation Letter
Proof of Relationship

For Medical Treatment:

Medical Diagnosis: A letter from a doctor in India explaining your medical condition.
Letter from US Hospital/Doctor: Confirmation from a medical facility in the US of their willingness to provide treatment, including the estimated cost and duration.
Proof of Funds: Evidence that you can cover the medical expenses.

The Application Process in India:

Complete the DS-160 Form: Fill out the form accurately online.
Pay the Visa Fee: Pay the fee through the designated channels.
Schedule Appointments: You will need to schedule two appointments:
Biometrics at a VAC (VFS Global): In cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, and Hyderabad. Here, your fingerprints and photograph will be taken.
Visa Interview at a US Consulate/Embassy: In Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, or Hyderabad.
Attend Your Appointments: Carry all the mandatory and supporting documents with you for both appointments. The consular officer will conduct a short interview to determine your eligibility for the visa.