Track your visa journey, step by step.

Determine if you need B-1 or B-2 (or B-1/B-2 combined)

B-1 is for business visits; B-2 is for tourism/medical/visiting family. Most applicants get the combined B-1/B-2 stamp.

Confirm your passport is valid 6+ months past intended stay

If it expires sooner, renew before applying.

Check if your country participates in the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA)

VWP countries may not need a B visa at all for stays under 90 days.

Gather proof of strong ties to home country

Employment letter, property documents, family obligations — needed at the interview.

Gather financial documentation

3-6 months of bank statements showing stable balances, not just a recent large deposit.

Plan your specific trip details

Dates, cities, accommodation, return flight. Vague itineraries hurt your case.

Take or obtain a passport-style photo meeting U.S. requirements

Specific size, background, and head position rules at travel.state.gov.

Start DS-160 at ceac.state.gov/genniv

Save your application ID immediately — you'll need it to return.

Complete all DS-160 questions honestly

Inconsistencies with later answers or your DS-2019 can cause denials.

Upload passport photo to DS-160

If rejected, photos can be retaken at most pharmacies.

Submit DS-160 and print confirmation page with barcode

You'll bring this to the interview.

Pay the MRV visa application fee ($185)

Payment method varies by country — check your embassy's website.

Schedule your visa interview at the embassy/consulate

During peak season (May-August), book 30-60 days ahead.

Add $250 Visa Integrity Fee to your budget (only if approved)

New as of October 2025 — only charged when visa is granted.

Practice answering common interview questions

Specific, honest, brief answers work best. Don't memorize scripts.

Organize all documents in a folder

Bring originals plus copies; officers may ask for either.

Plan your travel to the embassy

Arrive 15-30 minutes early. Security lines can be long.

Review the dress code

Business casual or formal. Avoid flashy or sloppy attire.

Bring all required documents

Passport, DS-160 confirmation, MRV receipt, photo, ties documentation.

Submit fingerprints (biometrics)

Done either at interview or at a separate appointment, depending on country.

Complete the consular interview

Most last 2-5 minutes. Answer the question asked, then stop talking.

Receive decision

Approval, denial under 214(b), or 221(g) administrative processing.

Pay the $250 Visa Integrity Fee

Payment process varies by embassy.

Wait for passport return with visa

Typically 1-2 weeks via courier or pickup.

Verify all visa details are correct

Check name spelling, validity dates, and entry type.

Plan travel within visa validity period

Multiple entries usually allowed within visa validity.