If you are planning to travel to the United States, you may need to get a visa in order to enter the country. The visa process can be confusing if you’ve never done it before, but once you figure out the steps and gather all of your information together, it’s quite simple and straightforward. This article will walk you through each step of the application process from start to finish, so you know exactly what to expect and have everything that you need before even starting the US VISA APPLICATION ONLINE.
The visa application process
There are three steps to obtaining a visa: 1) getting a visa application, 2) submitting your application, and 3) visiting a US embassy or consulate for an interview. Find out what you need to know about each step in our detailed guide. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, contact us at [email protected] with questions or comments.
What documents do I need?
The U.S. State Department has issued a long list of documents that you need to get prepared before applying for a US visa and it seems like there are a lot of them. We’ve listed some of them below so you can check if they apply to your situation and also which supporting documents should be scanned or photographed in case you’re asked by an officer at your interview US VISA APPLICATION PROCESS
Tips for applying online
Applying for a visa online is easier than ever, but you still have to be careful. Follow these tips when applying for your next US visa. They’ll help ensure your application is processed properly and promptly. When in doubt, hire an immigration attorney—the small fee may save you months of frustration as you wait for an answer on a rejected application.
Questions to ask your lawyer
On-site interviews, also known as consular interviews, take place at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country. During an interview, a consular officer will conduct an in-depth review of your application and supporting documents to ensure you qualify for a visa. This process can last from 15 minutes to several hours depending on your circumstances. Before you leave for your interview, make sure you bring all documents requested by our Embassy or Consular section and dress professionally—you may be asked to take off any non-formal outer garments prior to entering our secure area where visas are processed.
How long does it take?
If you’re applying for a B1, B2, or WB visa, you don’t need to schedule an appointment ahead of time. These visa types are available on a first-come, first-served basis and it can take anywhere from several days to several weeks to get approved depending on where you’re going. If you’re traveling outside of Canada or Mexico (such as going from Washington D.C. to London), that process takes about 2–3 weeks. If you have any questions about your situation or itinerary and whether it will impact your US visa application, contact us for further details.
Consular interviews
An interview appointment can be scheduled for an individual or a family at any of our posts around the world, except in Ireland and Italy. You can schedule your interview through our website. All applicants should apply online using the DS-160 application form. The DS-160 must be completed electronically and printed as confirmation of your application and brought to your interview in addition to all other required documents.