Applicants for visitor visas should generally apply at the American Embassy or Consulate with jurisdiction over their place of permanent residence. Although visa applicants may apply at any U.S. consular office abroad, it may be more difficult to qualify for the visa outside the country of permanent residence.
As part of the visa application process, an interview at the embassy consular section is required for visa applicants. Persons below 13 and above 80 years generally do not require an interview, unless requested by embassy or consulate. Each applicant for a visitor visa must submit these forms and documentation, and submit fees as explained below:
- A Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-156. The application to be accompanied by a letter from a U.S. friend or relative sponsor inviting the alien to the United States;
- A Supplemental Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-157;
- A passport valid for travel to the United States and with a validity date at least six months beyond the applicant’s intended period of stay in the United States.
- Two identical color photographs showing full face without head covering against a light background. One may wear a headdress if required by a religious order of which he or she is a member;
- Information describing the company such as brochures, catalogs, annual reports;
- A copy of tour itinerary; and
- Documentation demonstrating ability and intention of the alien, or that of his or her employer, to support the alien’s travel and other expenses while in the U.S.
Applicants must demonstrate that they are properly classifiable as visitors under U.S. law by:
- Evidence, which shows the purpose of the trip, intent to depart the United States, and arrangements made to cover the costs of the trip, may be provided. It is impossible to specify the exact form the documentation should take since applicants’ circumstances vary greatly.
- Those applicants who do not have sufficient funds to support themselves while in the U.S. must present convincing evidence that an interested person will provide support.
- Depending on individual circumstances, applicants may provide other documentation substantiating the trip’s purpose and specifying the nature of binding obligations, such as family ties or employment, which would compel their return abroad.
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