Step-by-step guide to apply for US visas directly

Prospective travellers seeking to visit the United States for tourism, business, education or employment are required to complete a series of online and in-person procedures before obtaining a visa.

Here is the step-by-step process for a direct e-Visa application:

Determine the visa type

Choose the appropriate nonimmigrant visa (e.g., B1/B2 for business or tourism, F-1 for students, H-1B for employment).

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Complete the DS-160 application

Fill out the online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (DS-160).

Upload a passport photograph if required.

Submit the form and print the confirmation page with the barcode.

Pay the visa application fee

Pay the applicable Machine-Readable Visa (MRV) fee according to the instructions for your country.

Create a visa appointment account

Register on the US visa appointment website serving your country.

Enter your DS-160 confirmation number and payment details.

Schedule your appointment

Book an appointment for biometrics (if applicable) and a visa interview at the US Embassy or Consulate.

Prepare your supporting documents

Valid passport (generally valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay).

DS-160 confirmation page.

Appointment confirmation.

Visa fee receipt (if required).

Recent passport-size photo (if requested).

Documents supporting the purpose of your trip, financial ability, and ties to your home country.

Attend your visa interview

Arrive on time with all required documents.

Answer the consular officer’s questions honestly and clearly.

Wait for visa processing

If approved, your passport will be retained for visa issuance.

Processing times vary depending on the embassy or consulate and whether additional administrative processing is required.

Receive your passport

Collect it from the designated pickup location or receive it by courier, depending on the service available in your country.