India to United States tourist visa
Complete US B1/B2 visitor visa requirements, fees, processing times, and approval tips for Indian citizens. Updated December 2025.
- Visa
- United States Tourist Visa
- Fee
- $185
- Processing time
- 7–7.5 months (interview wait)
- Length of stay
- Up to 6 months
Required documents
- Valid Passport — Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the United States
- DS-160 Application Form — Complete the online nonimmigrant visa application form
- Digital Photograph — Recent passport-style photograph meeting US visa requirements
- Visa Fee Payment — Pay the $185 Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee
- Interview Appointment — Schedule and attend visa interview at US Embassy or Consulate
- Financial Documents — Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your trip expenses
- Employment Evidence — Documentation proving your employment status and income
- Ties to India — Evidence demonstrating strong reasons to return to India
How to apply
- Strong ties to India that — Strong ties to India that would compel you to return after your visit 5
- Sufficient financial resources to cover — Sufficient financial resources to cover all expenses without working in the US 1
- Clear purpose of travel with — Clear purpose of travel with a realistic itinerary 1
- Intent to depart at the — Intent to depart at the end of your authorized stay 5
- New Delhi — 2–4 weeks
- Mumbai — 2–6 weeks
Common questions
- How long can I stay in the US on a B1/B2 visa?
- The maximum stay is determined by the Customs and Border Protection officer at your port of entry, typically up to 6 months. Your visa validity and permitted stay are different. A 10-year visa does not mean you can stay 10 years.
- Can I work on a US tourist visa?
- No, the B1/B2 visa does not permit any form of paid employment in the United States. Working on a tourist visa is illegal and can result in deportation and future visa ineligibility.
- How long does the US visa process take from India?
- Interview wait times vary by location and season, ranging from a few weeks to several months. Once you attend your interview, decisions are typically issued the same day. Passport return takes 3–5 business days.
- What is the US tourist visa fee for Indians in 2025?
- The Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee for B1/B2 visas is $185 USD. This fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome. A new Visa Integrity Fee of $250 will apply from October 2025.
- Do I need to book flights before the visa interview?
- No, do not book non-refundable travel until your visa is approved. Having tentative travel plans is helpful for the interview, but confirmed bookings are not required.
- What happens if my visa is refused under Section 214(b)?
- Section 214(b) means you did not demonstrate sufficient ties to India or the consular officer was not convinced you would return. You can reapply with stronger evidence, but must pay the fee again and schedule a new interview.