USA Visa Requirements And Fees From India – Complete Guide 2026

Planning a trip to the United States? Understanding the complete process for a USA visa from India is essential before you apply. From eligibility rules to updated documents and USA visa fees from India, this guide gives you a clear, step-by-step checklist to ensure a smooth and stress-free application experience.

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Recommendation: Obtain the visa first, then plan the trip

USA Visa Overview

A USA visa is an official travel authorization that allows foreign nationals to enter the United States for specific purposes such as tourism, business, education, employment, medical treatment, or permanent immigration. For Indian travelers planning a USA visa from India, understanding the visa categories and application process is essential before applying.

The United States offers two main visa types:

Non-immigrant visas for temporary stays, including the B1/B2 Visitor Visa, F1 Student Visa, H1B Work Visa, and J1 Exchange Visitor Visa.
Immigrant visas for individuals seeking permanent residency, commonly known as the Green Card.

To apply, applicants must hold a valid passport, accurately complete the DS-160 application form, pay the applicable visa fee, schedule biometric data collection, and attend a mandatory interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Visa processing times may vary based on the visa category, applicant profile, and current consular workload.

This structured process ensures that only eligible applicants are granted entry, making it important to prepare documents carefully and follow official guidelines for a smooth approval experience.

Key Highlights of the USA Visa

Mandatory visa for Indian travellers visiting the United States
Strict documentation and verification process with mandatory biometrics
Interview-based approval system at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate
Stay allowed up to 6 months for B1/B2 visitor visas
F1 and H1B visas allow extended stays based on course or employment duration
Multiple-entry visas commonly issued for tourism and business
Strong financial and travel history required for higher approval success

Why This Matters?

A well-prepared USA visa from India application greatly improves your chances of approval. The United States follows a strict, interview-based verification process where every detail matters. Missing documents, an unclear travel purpose, inconsistent information, or weak financial proof can result in application delays or even visa refusal. Preparing your application correctly from the start helps avoid unnecessary risks and increases confidence during the interview.

Who Should Apply?

Anyone planning to travel to the United States must apply for the appropriate visa based on their purpose of visit. This includes travelers visiting for tourism, business meetings, higher education, employment, medical treatment, or family visits. Students, working professionals, and individuals attending conferences or international events also require a valid visa. In some cases, even transit passengers may need a U.S. visa depending on their travel route and nationality.

When to Apply?

It is strongly recommended to apply for your USA visa at least 2–3 months before your intended travel date. Appointment availability at U.S. embassies and consulates can be limited, especially during peak travel seasons. Applying early gives you sufficient time to prepare documents, complete biometrics, pay the applicable USA visa fees from India, and attend the mandatory visa interview without last-minute stress.

Documents required for USA Visa

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Process Note

1

Collect Documents

2

Get Documents Verified

3

Send via Courier

4

Submission by Authorized Agent

5

Verification Call from Embassy

6

Collection After Approval

7

Return Courier Delivery

1

Collect Documents

2

Get Documents Verified

3

Send via Courier

4

Submission by Authorized Agent

5

Verification Call from Embassy

6

Collection After Approval

7

Return Courier Delivery

Brazil

Australia

Azerbaijan

Canada

Egypt

Visa Fee

Visa fees include verification and processing, with total costs varying based on service levels.

Processing Time

Processing usually takes 3–5 working days, with slight delays possible during busy periods or additional verification.

Visa Validity & Stay Duration

A USA e-Visa usually permits a stay of up to 30 days, with validity extending up to 2 years based on approval.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get a US visa from India?

To get a USA visa from India, you must complete the DS-160 application form, pay the visa fee, schedule a biometric appointment, and attend a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Approval depends on your travel purpose, documents, and interview responses.

What is B1, B2, and B1/B2 visa?

The B1 visa is for business-related travel such as meetings or conferences, while the B2 visa is for tourism, medical treatment, or visiting family. A B1/B2 visa is a combined visitor visa allowing both business and tourism activities.

Do Indians get a US visa easily?

Indians can get a U.S. visa if they meet eligibility criteria and clearly demonstrate their travel intent, financial stability, and ties to India. A well-prepared application and confident interview significantly improve approval chances.

How much does a US visa cost from India?

The standard USA visa fees from India for a B1/B2 visitor visa is USD 185, payable online before scheduling the interview. Fees may vary for other visa categories and are non-refundable.

What documents are needed for a US visa?

Applicants need a valid passport, DS-160 confirmation page, visa appointment letter, recent photograph, and proof of financial capability. Supporting documents such as employment details, invitation letters, or travel plans may be required based on the visa type.

How much bank balance is required for a US B1/B2 visa?

There is no fixed minimum bank balance requirement. However, applicants should show sufficient funds to cover travel, accommodation, and living expenses during their stay in the United States.

My visa will expire while I am in the United States. Is there a problem with that?

No, there is no issue as long as your authorized stay period (I-94) is valid. A visa is only required for entry, not for the duration of stay inside the U.S.

After I have my visa, I will be able to enter the U.S., correct?

A visa allows you to travel to a U.S. port of entry, but final entry approval is granted by a Customs and Border Protection officer after inspection.

How much is the ESTA fee and how can I pay it?

The ESTA fee is USD 21 and applies only to eligible Visa Waiver Program countries. Indian passport holders are not eligible for ESTA and must apply for a regular U.S. visa.

How long am I allowed to stay in the United States?

The length of stay is determined by the immigration officer at the port of entry and recorded on your I-94 form. For B1/B2 visas, stays of up to six months are commonly granted.