US Tourist Visa (B-2 Visa)
A US Tourist Visa, commonly known as a B-2 visa, is issued to individuals entering the United States temporarily for leisure, tourism, or medical treatment. It grants the holder the opportunity to explore the vast cultural and geographical diversity of the US, visit family and friends, and participate in a range of social or service activities.
What the B-2 Visa Provides
Note: The B-2 visa does not permit holders to work, engage in business activities, enroll in academic courses, or perform for pay.
Application Process for a B-2 Visa
To apply for a B-2 Tourist Visa, applicants must complete the DS-160 online application, schedule and attend a visa interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate, and provide the necessary documentation, including proof of the trip's purpose and evidence of intent to return to their home country.
Visa Fees and Processing Time
Applicants must pay a non-refundable visa application fee. Processing times vary by location, applicant's nationality, and other factors. Applicants are encouraged to apply well in advance of their planned travel.
Validity and Extensions
A B-2 Visa is typically valid for up to 10 years with multiple entries, allowing stays of up to six months on each visit. Extensions may be granted under certain circumstances by filing a request with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before the visa expires.
Important Considerations
While holding a B-2 Visa, visitors cannot change their visa status to engage in employment, study, or permanent residency without leaving the US and applying for a different visa. Violating the terms of the visa can result in deportation and a ban on re-entry.
The Process
Step 1 - Complete the DS-160 form
Fill out the online DS-160 Nonimmigrant Visa Application form.
Step 2 - Pay the visa application fee
Pay the non-refundable visa application fee.
Step 3 - Schedule a visa interview
After paying the fee, schedule an interview appointment at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.
Step 4 - Gather required documents
Collect the necessary documents, including your passport, photograph, DS-160 confirmation page, proof of funds to cover expenses in the U.S., travel itinerary, and any supporting documents demonstrating your intent to return to your home country.
Step 5 - Attend the visa interview
Show up for your scheduled visa interview at the embassy or consulate. Be prepared to answer questions about your travel plans, ties to your home country, and financial situation.
Step 6 - Submit biometric information (if required)
Depending on your country of application, you may need to provide biometric information such as fingerprints and a photograph at the embassy or consulate.
Step 7 - Wait for visa processing
After the interview, your application will undergo processing. The time it takes to process varies by location and other factors.
Step 8 - Receive visa decision
You will be notified of the decision on your visa application. If approved, your passport will be returned to you with the visa stamp, allowing you to travel to the United States as a tourist.
