United States Visa Requirements 2026

Indian passport holders need a visa for the United States. The B1/B2 visitor visa costs US$185. You fill in form DS-160, pay the fee and attend an interview at the US Embassy or a Consulate; some renewals qualify for an interview waiver.

Passport; DS-160 confirmation page; Appointment confirmation and fee receipt; Photo that meets US visa requirements; Evidence of your ties to India, funds and the purpose of the trip.

B1/B2 visitor visa: US$185. US$185 is the application fee for visitor visas, paid in rupees at the consular exchange rate. It is not refunded if the visa is refused.

Depends on interview wait times; the State Department publishes the current wait for each consulate online.

A visa cover letter is a formal document submitted with your visa application that explains the purpose of your visit, travel itinerary, financial means, accommodation details, and your intent to return home. While not always mandatory, a well-written cover letter helps visa officers understand your case quickly and can strengthen your application.

You can track your visa application status online through the official embassy or consulate website using your application reference number. Most visa application centres (such as VFS Global, TLScontact, or BLS International) also provide online tracking portals where you can check your application status in real time.

A single-entry visa allows you to enter the destination country only once during its validity period. A multiple-entry visa permits you to enter and exit the country multiple times. Multiple-entry visas are ideal for frequent travellers and are often valid for longer durations such as 1, 3, or 5 years.

If your visa application is rejected, you will receive a refusal letter explaining the specific reason for the decision. You may be able to reapply by addressing the concerns mentioned, file an appeal if the country's regulations allow it, or request a reconsideration. It is advisable to seek professional advice before reapplying.

Yes, children typically require their own visa even if they are travelling with parents. In some cases, minors can be included on a parent's application. Additional documents such as birth certificates, parental consent letters from both parents, and school enrolment letters are usually required for minor applicants.

The 6-month passport validity rule requires your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the destination country. This is a common requirement for many countries worldwide. If your passport does not meet this requirement, your visa application may be denied even if all other documents are in order.