Tourists typically require a B-2 visa to visit the United States. This visa is specifically intended for leisure travel, visiting friends or family, or participating in social events. It does not permit the following activities:

• Employment;
• Academic studies;
• Paid performances;
• Work in media or journalism;
• Serving as a crew member on an aircraft or ship;
• Applying for permanent residency.

According to the US Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), to qualify for a US visa, you must demonstrate: 

• Your trip is temporary (tourism, business, or visiting relatives/friends);
• Your stay will be for a limited period;
• You have adequate financial means to cover your stay;
• You maintain strong ties to your home country, such as employment, property, or family, indicating you will return after your visit.

Applicants from India must submit the following documents:

• DS-160 Form: Completed online Nonimmigrant Visa Application.
• Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay, plus any previous passports.
• Photograph: A recent passport-size photo that adheres to US specifications.

Note: For visa appointments, also carry:

• DS-160 confirmation page;
• Appointment confirmation page;
• Visa fee payment receipt;
• Proof of trip purpose (e.g., travel itinerary, invitation letter);
• Evidence of financial stability (e.g., last 6 months’ bank statements);
• Documents indicating intent to return to India (e.g., employment letter, property papers).

Although the US authorities do not specify an exact amount, it is generally advised to maintain a bank balance of over ₹6,00,000 to support your application.

No, confirmed travel tickets are not required when applying. In fact, the US government recommends against purchasing non-refundable tickets prior to receiving your visa.

Travel insurance is not a mandatory requirement for a US tourist visa. Nonetheless, it is strongly recommended to safeguard against unexpected medical or travel-related emergencies.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the US visa application process:

• Fill DS-160 Form: Complete the Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form online. Save your Application ID for reference. If you’re unable to upload a photo, bring a printed one to your VAC appointment.
• Pay Visa Fees: Register on the US visa website, log in, and pay the $185 visa fee. Keep a screenshot or printout of your payment receipt.
• Schedule Appointments: Book both the Visa Application Center (VAC) and Embassy appointments. The VAC appointment should be scheduled at least one day prior to your interview.
• Biometrics Appointment: Visit the VAC to provide your fingerprints and photo.
• Visa Interview: Attend the scheduled interview at the US Embassy/Consulate with all required documents.
• Visa Decision: The consular officer will usually communicate the decision immediately after the interview.
• Passport Collection: If approved, your passport will be sent to your selected collection centre or delivered via courier.

A sample US tourist visa shows the visa category (B2), validity dates, and personal details. This is typically affixed to your passport.

Bring the following documents:

• Appointment confirmation page;
• DS-160 confirmation page;
• Aadhar Card;
• Valid and any previous passports.

Carry:

• DS-160 confirmation page;
• Appointment confirmation page;
• Aadhar Card;
• Passports (current and old);
• Visa fee receipt;
• Documents supporting trip purpose, return intent, and financial ability.

You’ll be notified via email or SMS when your passport is ready. Choose between:

• Self-pick-up: Collect from the designated centre using a valid ID and appointment confirmation.
• Courier Delivery: Delivered to the address provided during application.

Yes, except for children under 14 and applicants aged 80 or above, who are typically exempt from the interview process.

Yes, you may reschedule your interview twice through the official US visa appointment portal.

It usually lasts between 3 to 10 minutes.

• Know your DS-160 form thoroughly.
• Be honest and consistent in your responses.
• Apply through trusted channels like Y-Axis for expert assistance.
• Dress professionally and remain composed throughout the interview.

Expect questions around:

• Purpose of your visit;
• Travel itinerary;
• Financial preparedness;
• Employment status and home country ties;
• Past travel history.

• Dress smartly;
• Be honest and concise;
• Stay polite and calm;
• Be prepared for follow-up questions;
• Clearly express your intent to return to India;
• Have your financial documents in order.

Yes, each applicant must submit an individual DS-160. For minors under 16 or those unable to complete it, a third party may assist, which must be disclosed on the final page.

Ideally, complete it at least 48 hours before your scheduled appointment.

• Gather necessary documents beforehand;
• Complete the form in one session (within 30 minutes);
• If you only have one name, list it under “surname” and write “FNU” in the “given name” field;
• Record your Application ID;
• Read each section carefully and print the confirmation page upon completion.

No, but you can complete and submit a new one. Remember to bring both the old and new confirmation pages to your appointment.

• Submitting incorrect or incomplete information;
• Inadequate financial proof;
• Using an invalid passport;
• Failing to demonstrate strong ties to India;
• Applying for the wrong visa type.

Double-check all information and documents before submission to avoid rejection.

Follow these steps:

• Ensure your previous visa is still valid or expired within the last 4 years.
• Gather the necessary documents.
• Fill out the DS-160 form online.
• Log into the US appointment website and determine interview waiver eligibility.
• Pay the $185 visa fee.
• Print the Interview Waiver Confirmation Letter.
• Submit your documents to the designated drop-off location.
• Receive your renewed visa within approximately three weeks.

• Start your application via the Y-Axis platform.
• Upload your passport and photograph.
• A Y-Axis visa expert will assist throughout the process.
• You’ll receive help securing an expedited appointment.
• Attend your VAC appointment with the required documents.
• Visit the consulate for your interview.
• Upon approval, collect your visa-affixed passport from your chosen location.

• Fast-tracked visa appointments;
• Personalised end-to-end support;
• Expert guidance with years of experience;
• Improved chances of visa approval through thorough preparation.

No. The B-2 visa strictly prohibits employment or academic enrolment. It is meant solely for tourism, medical treatment, and certain social activities.

You may:

• Track online: Visit the CEAC website and enter your application and passport details.
• Track via phone: Call +91 22 62011000 in your preferred language for an update.

Yes. Here’s how:

• Understand the reason for denial (usually shared after the interview);
• Address the reason by gathering stronger evidence or correcting the issue;
• Reapply once your circumstances have changed significantly.