US Tourist Visa (B1/B2) Application Guide for Indian Citizens (2026)

At a glance

Indian citizens travelling to the United States for tourism must obtain a B1/B2 Visitor Visa, requiring a full consular application including biometrics and an in-person interview. When approved, a 10-year multiple-entry visa is typically granted. DheeVoy summarises the DS-160 process, fees, interview focus, and FAQs for 2026.

Understanding the US B1/B2 tourist visa for Indian passport holders

Indian citizens planning to travel to the United States for tourism, leisure, family visits, or short business consultations must obtain a B1/B2 Visitor Visa prior to travel. Unlike electronic authorization schemes, the US B1/B2 visa requires a full consular application, including biometric collection and an in-person interview at a US Embassy or Consulate (New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, or Kolkata). When approved, Indian citizens are typically granted a 10-year multiple-entry B1/B2 visa.

Step-by-step B1/B2 application process

1. Complete Form DS-160: Fill out the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form accurately on the official CEAC website (ceac.state.gov). Save your unique DS-160 application barcode number.
2. Create Portal Profile & Pay Fee: Register on the official US visa scheduling portal (usvisascheduling.com) and pay the Machine Readable Visa (MRV) application fee of $185 USD (~INR 15,500).
3. Schedule Two Appointments: Book an appointment at an Offsite Visa Application Center (VAC) for biometrics (photo & fingerprints), followed by your Consular Interview appointment at the Embassy or Consulate.
4. Prepare Documentation: Carry your valid Indian passport, DS-160 confirmation page, appointment confirmation letter, financial bank statements, employment letters, property documents, and travel itinerary.

Passing the US visa interview & proving ties to India

Under US immigration law (Section 214(b)), every applicant is presumed to be an intending immigrant until they prove otherwise. The primary focus of the interviewing consular officer is evaluating your strong economic, social, and family ties to India that ensure your return after a temporary visit.

Key Focus Areas During Interview:

• Purpose of trip and specific travel plans.
• Financial ability to fund travel without working illegally in the US.
• Employment stability or professional commitments in India.

US port of entry inspection & ESTA differences

Holding a valid B1/B2 visa sticker does not guarantee automatic entry. Upon landing at US international airports (such as JFK, ORD, LAX, or SFO), US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers conduct entry interviews and determine your official duration of stay (typically up to 6 months per entry recorded on Form I-94).