United States of America visa for Indian citizens
Visa required for Indian passport holders
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How to apply
- Online (DS-160 form)
- Schedule Interview
- Interview at Embassy (New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Kolkata, Hyderabad)
Documents required
- Valid passport, DS-160 confirmation
- Appointment letter
- Bank statements
- Income Tax Returns (ITR)
- Additional Liquid Assets
- Proof of ties to India
- Passport-size photographs
Official links
U.S. Embassy & Consulates in India
Always confirm the latest rules on the official site before you apply.
Pre-visa checklist
$5000 - $10000 Suggested
₹7 lakh to ₹10 lakh for a standard 2-to-3 week trip.
But, You Should Still Consider It because:
Extremely high healthcare costs
No domestic coverage
Peace of mind
But, strongly recommended as it
Proves strong ties
Shows financial stability
The U.S. Department of State explicitly advises applicants not to purchase non-refundable flight tickets before receiving your visa
Consular officers explicitly advise against making paid travel reservations or purchasing tickets before receiving your visa
A medical evaluation is only requested by the consular officer on a case-by-case basis if an applicant has a specific
- Communicable disease concern or
- Medical/criminal history
While a confirmed booking isn't required, you should have a basic, realistic idea of your intended travel dates, the cities or areas you plan to visit, and how long you intend to stay.
Proof of ties to your home country is required (such as employment, property, family, or school enrollment).
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Things to know
The U.S. Embassy does not publish any fixed amount that applicants must show in their bank accounts. Instead, visa officers evaluate if:
1. You can financially support yourself during your stay in the U.S.
2. Your funds are genuine, stable, and earned legally
3. Your financial situation aligns with your travel plans
4. You have strong reasons to return to your home country
5. Bank statements (last 6 months), Bank balance certificate, Salary slips, Income Tax Returns (ITR), FD certificates, Savings or investment proofs as proof of income are accepted
6. Property documents and assets help demonstrate strong ties to your home country but should not be relied upon as your primary proof of funds
- Document Review Reality: In 60% to 70% of approved interviews, the consular officer never looks at a single physical document. They rely purely on your DS-160, screen notes, and direct answers.
- Crucial Documents to Bring Anyway: When they do ask, the #1 requested document at Indian consulates is Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the last 2–3 years, followed by 6 months of bank statements (avoiding sudden lump-sum deposits), and employment letters.
- The Hard Gatekeepers: Forgetting your DS-160 barcode confirmation page, your appointment confirmation, or the $185 MRV fee receipt will get you turned away immediately at the door with no chance to print inside.
- Visa Stamp vs. I-94 Duration: A valid U.S. visa only lets you travel to a port of entry; the actual length of legal stay is determined strictly by your electronic I-94 record issued by the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer upon landing.
- Carrying Documents in Transit: Put all core papers (visa, passport, travel docs) plus a change of clothes directly in your cabin bag rather than checked luggage.
- US Customs & Food Rules: U.S. customs are notoriously strict; avoid carrying fresh fruits, vegetables, or dairy products in your baggage.
- Hidden Financial Realities: Sales tax is not included on price tags (added at checkout), and tipping (15–20% at restaurants/taxis) is culturally mandatory.
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Visa rules and fees change often, and costs are shown in INR and are approximate. This page is for information only and is not legal, financial or immigration advice. Information last updated 31 October 2026.
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