If you’re an Indian citizen planning to visit the United States, one of the first steps you need to take is to understand the visa application process, including the costs involved. This guide provides a clear overview of the various types of US visas available to Indians, their associated costs, and helpful tips to navigate the process.

Here’s the details of USA tourist visa for Indians:

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Do I Need a US Visa?

Yes, all Indian citizens require a valid US visa for travel or relocation to the United States. The sole exception is for citizens of countries participating in the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) – India is not currently included in this program.

What Does a US Visa Allow?

A US visa permits you to travel to a US port of entry (such as an airport or land border). There, you'll request permission from a Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Customs and Border Protection (CBP) inspector to officially enter the country. While a visa doesn't guarantee entry, it's a strong indication to inspectors that you've been pre-approved.

Documents required for your US tourist visa:

Passport

• Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel date
• Your passport should have a minimum of 2 blank pages
• Previously issued passports, if you have any
• Your passport should have been issued within the last 10 years
• Indian passports with any observations or corrections will not be accepted

Financial Documents

• Personal bank statement (last 6 months) with seal and signature of the bank
• Income Tax returns (last 3 years)
• Salary slips (last 3 months)
• Financial documents of sponsor and sponsorship letter (if sponsored)
• GST registration certificate (If self-employed)

Invitation Letter - format provided by StampThePassport

• If you're visiting friends or family, you'll need a signed invitation letter from them, along with a copy of their passport and visa

No Objection Certificate - format provided by StampThePassport

• Minors travelling without a parent or guardian, require a NOC or No Objection Certificate from their parents
• If employed, you require a Leave Sanction Certificate from your employer

Supporting Documents - provided by StampThePassport

• Copy of US visa confirmation page (DS 160)
• Appointment Letter Confirmation (Biometrics and Interview)
• US Visa Fee Payment Receipt
• Asset documents such as fixed deposits, stocks owned and property papers

Other Documents

• Marriage certificate (if your spouse's name is not in your passport)
• Wedding/engagement photos and your wedding card or invitation (for newly married couples)
• Asset documents such as fixed deposits, stocks owned and property papers
• School/College Identity card in case the applicant is a student

US visas broadly fall into two categories:

Non-Immigrant Visas: These are for temporary visitors. The specific non-immigrant visa you need depends on your travel purpose and length of stay.  Common types include:

US Business/Tourist Visa (B1/B2): Typically valid for up to 10 years, allows short-term stays (usually up to 6 months). The US tourist visa cost for Indians is generally the most sought-after information and comes at a fee of ₹15,540 (*The price may fluctuate due to changes in the currency exchange rate).

US Work Visas (H, L, O, P, Q): For temporary employment, each requiring an employer-filed US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) petition.

US Student Visas (F, M): For pursuing studies in the US. And more!

US Immigrant Visas (K): For those relocating permanently to the US. Requires a USCIS petition filed by a US-based relative or potential employer. US visa fee payments in India for immigrant visas can cost up to ₹22,260.

US Visa Cost For Indians
Table

The costs associated with applying for a US visa can vary significantly based on the type of visa.  Here is a breakdown of common US visa fees for Indians:

Each year, millions of international travellers, including Indian citizens, journey to the United States of America for various purposes. However, as many Indians are aware, the visa application process isn't straightforward. Despite this, 10% of US visas are granted to Indian applicants.

Getting a Visa for the USA from India has lots of details. In this blog, I'll make it easy with just three steps:

Diplomatic and Official Personnel: Applicants holding A, G, C-2, C-3, or NATO visas, along with the immediate families of members and staff of observer missions to the United Nations Headquarters as recognized by the UN General Assembly. These individuals are typically on official government business.

Participants in US Government-Sponsored Exchange Programs: Individuals applying for J visas to participate in official exchange programs sponsored by the US government. These programs facilitate cultural and educational exchange.

Visa Replacement Due to Technical Error: If your original visa was incorrectly printed or needs reissuing due to a technical error beyond your control, the replacement will be issued without an additional fee.

Charitable Work: If you're travelling expressly to provide charitable services, as approved by Visa Services, your application fee may be waived.

US Government Employees on Official Business:  US government employees on official travel do not need to pay the visa application fee.

Immediate Family of US Government Employees (Specific Circumstances):  A parent, sibling, spouse, or child of a US government employee who was killed or critically injured while carrying out their official duties may have their visa fee waived if their travel is related to:

• Attending the employee's funeral or burial.
• Visiting the employee during emergency treatment or recovery.

Important Things to Remember

Visa Fee Waiver Determinations: The final decision on whether a visa fee can be waived lies with Visa Services.

Reciprocity Agreements: Some countries have reciprocal visa fee agreements with the US. India is one such country, so Indian citizens generally do not need to pay additional reciprocity fees.

Is a US Visa On Arrival available for Indians? 

Unfortunately, no such provision exists. Indian citizens are required to apply for a visa in advance as the option for a visa on arrival is not available.

Conclusion

Understanding US visa fees for Indians, along with potential exemptions, is a vital part of planning your journey to the United States. By being well-informed and budgeting accordingly, you'll set yourself up for a smooth visa application process and a fantastic travel experience. Remember, additional resources and information are available on official US visa websites or through your nearest US embassy or consulate.

1. I'm from India. Do I need a visa to visit the US?
Yes, all Indian citizens need a visa to travel to the United States.

2. I want to visit the US as a tourist. What kind of visa do I need, and how much does it cost?
You need a B1/B2 visa (Tourist/Business). The current cost for Indians is ₹15,540. Keep in mind that the price can change a bit depending on currency exchange rates.

3. How long will my tourist visa be good for, and how long can I stay in the US?
Tourist visas can be good for up to 10 years. However, each time you visit, you usually can't stay longer than 6 months.

4. Do I always have to pay the visa fee?
No. If you're travelling for official government business, doing certain charity work, or are in a few other special situations, you might not have to pay the fee.

5. Can I get a US visa when I arrive at the airport?
No. You must apply for and get your US visa before you travel.

6. What's the best way to find out the most up-to-date visa costs and rules?
Always check the official US government websites for visas:

• https://travel.state.gov/
• https://www.uscis.gov/

or visit stampthepassport.com for more information

7. I'm a student. Are visas for students different?
Yes. Students need an F or M visa. These might have extra fees.

8. What if I'm travelling to the US for a short business trip?
You'll still need the B1/B2 (Business/Tourist) visa.

9. Are there other types of US visas besides tourist ones?
Yes! There are visas for work, longer-term study, and even for people who want to move to the US permanently.

10. The visa process seems complicated. Where can I get help?
The US Embassy or Consulate in India can provide information and guidance. You may also find helpful resources on their websites.