How To Apply For A USA Visitor Visa (B1/b2) | Step-by-step Guide For Us Tourist Visa Application

Planning a trip to the United States—whether it’s to see family, attend a conference, or explore landmarks like the Grand Canyon—starts with one crucial step: getting the right visa.

For most international travelers, that means applying for a B1/B2 Visitor Visa. It might seem intimidating at first, especially with the paperwork and interviews involved, but the process is very doable once you know what to expect.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of applying for a USA tourist visa in a way that’s clear, practical, and up to date. If you’re planning to travel for business, pleasure, or a mix of both, this step-by-step breakdown will help you understand how to navigate the process confidently.

What is a B1/B2 Visa?

The B1/B2 visa is a non-immigrant visa for individuals entering the United States temporarily for business (B1) or tourism/medical treatment (B2) purposes. Most applicants fall under this combined category.

Common reasons for B1/B2 visa travel include:

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  Visiting family or friends

• Tourism or vacation

• Attending business meetings or conferences

• Seeking medical treatment

This visa usually allows for stays of up to 6 months at a time, although the final length of stay is determined by U.S. Customs at the port of entry.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for a US Visitor Visa

Step 1: Determine If You Need a Visa

Citizens of certain countries may be eligible for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), which allows them to travel to the U.S. for tourism or business without a visa for up to 90 days. You can check eligibility here.

If you’re not eligible for the VWP, you’ll need to apply for the B1/B2 visa.

Step 2: Complete the DS-160 Form Online

The DS-160 is the official online non-immigrant visa application form.

• Fill it out at the U.S. Department of State’s portal: https://ceac.state.gov/

• Be ready with:

  • Passport details

  • Travel plans (tentative is okay)

  • Employment and education history

  • Digital passport-size photo (in U.S. visa format)

Pro Tip: Save your application ID number—you’ll need it later.

Step 3: Pay the Visa Application Fee

The non-refundable visa fee is $185 USD for the B1/B2 visa (as of 2025).

• Payment methods and instructions vary by country, so check your local U.S. embassy or consulate’s website.

• Once paid, you’ll get a confirmation receipt—keep it safe.

Step 4: Schedule Your Visa Interview

Applicants aged 14–79 are generally required to attend a visa interview. Here’s how to schedule it:

• Create an account on the U.S. visa appointment website for your country.

• Choose your preferred U.S. embassy or consulate.

• Book an available interview date.

• You’ll need your DS-160 confirmation number and visa fee receipt to proceed.

Some locations have long wait times, so it’s smart to schedule early.

Step 5: Gather Required Documents

Before your interview, prepare a complete set of documents to support your application. While requirements can vary, here’s a general list:

Mandatory Documents:

• Valid passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay)

• DS-160 confirmation page with barcode

• Visa appointment confirmation letter

• Visa fee receipt

• Passport-size photo (physical copy, if required)

Supporting Documents (highly recommended):

• Proof of ties to your home country (job letter, property deeds, family documents)

• Bank statements or financial documents to show you can fund your trip

• Travel itinerary or hotel bookings (tentative is fine)

• Invitation letter (if visiting someone in the U.S.)

• Business meeting agenda or conference invitation (for B1)

Step 6: Attend Your Visa Interview

On the day of the interview:

• Arrive early at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate

• Dress neatly—no need for formal attire, just look presentable

• Be ready to answer questions such as:

  • Why are you traveling to the U.S.?

  • Who will fund your trip?

  • What do you do for work?

  • Do you plan to return to your home country?

The officer will look for honesty, clarity, and strong ties to your home country. Most interviews are brief—often under 5 minutes.

At the end, you’ll be told if your visa is approved, denied, or under further review.

Step 7: Wait for Your Visa to Be Processed

If approved, the consulate will keep your passport to place the visa sticker. This typically takes a few days to a few weeks, depending on local processing times.

Your passport will be returned via courier or made available for pickup at a designated location.

FAQs

How long is the B1/B2 visa valid for?

It depends on your nationality. Some applicants receive visas valid for 1 year, others for 5 or even 10 years with multiple entries.

Can I extend my stay once I’m in the U.S.?

Yes, you can apply for an extension with USCIS before your authorized stay expires, but approval is not guaranteed.

Is travel insurance required for a B1/B2 visa?

Not mandatory, but highly recommended—especially for medical coverage during your trip.

Can I work on a B1/B2 visa?

No. This visa is strictly for temporary visits, not employment.

How TRAVUL.ORG Makes Visa Planning Easier

At TRAVUL, we know applying for a visa can feel overwhelming—between documents, interviews, and timelines, it’s easy to miss a step. That’s why we’re building a platform that brings everything together in one place: trip planning, visa assistance, financial support, and AI-powered recommendations.

When you use TRAVUL:

• You get step-by-step visa guidance tailored to your country and situation

• Access to travel financing tools—so you can save up or get a loan for your dream trip

• Receive alerts and reminders about visa deadlines and interviews

• Tap into personalized support, whether you’re planning a short trip or a long vacation

Travel should be exciting—not stressful. We’re here to help you remove friction from the process so you can focus on the fun part.

Final Thoughts

Applying for a U.S. visitor visa may feel like a big task, but it’s completely manageable when you understand the process and stay organized. Millions of people apply for and receive B1/B2 visas each year—there’s no reason you can’t be next.

What’s one destination or experience you’re most excited to explore in the U.S.?

Let us know in the comments—or start planning with TRAVUL.ORG and turn your travel goals into reality.

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