Indian applicants' guide to US B1/B2 visa applications in 2026
Author : Continental Immigration | Published On : 27 Feb 2026
Are you planning a business trip, attending a conference, or visiting family and friends in the United States? Non-immigrant visas to the United States are among the most popular for Indians, especially the B1/B2 visa (for business or tourist purposes). The application process is straightforward, but small mistakes can result in delays or refusals. Our 2026 guide provides you with clear, updated information that will help you prepare with confidence.
What is the purpose of a B1/B2 visa?
B1 visas cover business activities (meetings, conferences, negotiations), while B2 visas cover tourism, medical treatment, and visiting relatives. In most cases, applicants receive a B1/B2 visa that's valid for up to 10 years (multiple entries) and allows them to stay for as long as they want.
Check Eligibility Basics
You must prove:
Strong ties to India (job, family, property, bank balance).
Clear purpose of visit (invitation letter, conference registration, travel itinerary). Sufficient funds to cover your trip without working in the US.
Following your visit, you plan to return to India.
Fill the DS-160 Form Correctly
The DS-160 is the online non-immigrant visa application form.
Complete it at https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/.
Upload a recent passport-size photo (2x2 inches, white background, taken within 6 months).
Answer every question honestly and accurately—any mismatch during the interview can lead to refusal.
Save your application number and confirmation page (you’ll need it for scheduling).
Schedule an interview & pay the visa fee
Current fee (2026): $185 (non-refundable, payable online or at designated banks).
Book your appointment at https://www.ustraveldocs.com/in/.
Wait times in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Ahmedabad vary—check current slots regularly as they open frequently.
Obtain all necessary document
Bring originals + photocopies to the interview:
You should have a valid passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned US stay).
DS-160 confirmation page.
Visa fee receipt.
Recent photo (if not uploaded successfully).
Proof of ties to India: Employment letter, salary slips (last 3-6 months), ITR/Form 16, bank statements (last 6 months), property documents, family ties proof.
Documents specific to the purpose: Business invitation letter, conference registration, hotel reservations, flight itinerary, and travel insurance (optional, but helpful).
Travel history and previous US visa copies (if applicable).
Get ready for your visa interview
Keep your words short, concise, and honest.
Question: What is your purpose for visiting? Are you planning to stay for a long time? Who pays for it? How is India connected to you? When was the last time you traveled abroad?
Dress professionally and arrive early.
Mostly, officers evaluate your chances of returning to India based on your strong ties (job stability, family, assets).
After the Interview
Upon approval: Passport returned within 3–7 working days with visa stamped.
If refused (usually under Section 214(b)): You can reapply anytime with stronger documents—no appeal process.
Track status at https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx.
Here are some final tips for 2026 success
You should apply 3–6 months before your travel date so that you can account for appointment wait times.
Avoid agents promising “guaranteed” visas—stick to official channels.
Keep digital copies of all documents and stay updated via the US Embassy website (in.usembassy.gov).
Having a solid profile (a stable job, good finances, and a clear purpose) will increase your chances of approval.
Good luck on your journey for a US Visa and safe travels!(You should always check the official US Embassy/Consulate website for updated rules and requirements.)
