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USA Visa for Indians

Fees, documents and processing time for Indian passport holders. Last verified 15 October 2026.

This is an independent guide, not an official government website. Visa rules change often; always confirm the latest requirements on the official website before you apply or book.

USA visa for Indian passport holders

Visa required

Stay allowed
180 days
Fee
โ‚น38,500USD 185 ยท The application fee is generally non-refundable. Additional issuance or reciprocity fees, if applicable, should be checked for the applicant's nationality and visa category. Do not include optional travel-agent charges as official fees.
Processing
3โ€“7 working days
Validity
10 years
Apply on the official websiteUS Department of State, Visitor Visa

Last verified .

Indians need a visa for USA, applied for in advance through the embassy or its official visa centre; processing usually takes 3โ€“7 working days.

One advantage of that Indian citizens need a visa before they go to The United States, without making it overly complicated. The main point is that there is no visa, visa on arrival or ESTA for Indian passport holders. If you’re having trouble, holidaymakers request a B1/B2 visa, which includes leisure and unretentive-term visits. The process begins with. To clarify, Do you want to make things easier? In simple words, there will be a biometric appointment and an interview at an American embassy or consulate in India.Is the goal to fabricate things easier? Most first-time applicants must attend the interview in person, though some renewals may qualify for an interview waiver. If the visa is allowed, it is usually valid for Up To 10 Years with multiple submissions. Each visit allows a stay of Up To 6 Months and the border officer decides the exact period on arrival.

The government costs About $ 435 per person, it roughly โ‚น38,500. To put it another procedure, Simply it is $ 185 visa fee plus the new $ 250 visa integrity fee is torn when the visa is supplied. The theoretical basis suggests that This is a solid contribution: waiting times in India are often long, so you have to apply before your travelling date. Unlike other approaches, visitants can not work or study on this visa. In basic terms, traveling policy is not compulsory, but it is highly recommended medical care in The United States is very expensive. Essentially, When fees and wait times change often, so you always confirm the latest items on the travel.State.Gov and ustraveldocs.com before you apply.

How to apply for a USA visa from India

  1. Fill the DS-160 online form at ceac.state.gov and save the confirmation page
  2. Create a profile on ustraveldocs.com/in and pay the visa fee
  3. Book your biometrics (VAC) and interview appointments
  4. Attend the biometrics appointment at the VAC for fingerprints and photo
  5. Attend the visa interview at the US Embassy or Consulate
  6. Pay the Visa Integrity Fee if your visa is approved
  7. Receive your passport with the visa by courier or collect it

Entry requirements for USA

  • Passport valid for the full stay (6-month validity rule applies to most countries)
  • B1/B2 visa stamp in your passport
  • Return or onward ticket
  • Proof of funds to cover your stay
  • Proof of strong ties to India (job, business, property, family)
  • Completed I-94 record (generated automatically on arrival)
  • Do not work or study on a visitor visa
  • Be ready for questioning by the border officer

USA visa document checklist

Choose your profile to see exactly what to carry. Tick items as you collect them, then print or save as PDF.

USA ยท Salaried employee ยท Tourism / holiday

Embassies can ask for more documents. Always match this list with the official checklist before you apply.

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Frequently asked questions

Do Indians need a visa for USA?

Indians need a visa for USA, applied for in advance through the embassy or its official visa centre; processing usually takes 3โ€“7 working days.

How much is the USA visa fee for Indians?

The total cost is about โ‚น38,500 per person (official fee USD 185). The application fee is generally non-refundable. Additional issuance or reciprocity fees, if applicable, should be checked for the applicant's nationality and visa category. Do not include optional travel-agent charges as official fees..

How long does a USA visa take for Indians?

Processing usually takes 3โ€“7 working days. Apply well before your travel date, especially in peak season.

How long can Indians stay in USA?

Up to 180 days (10 years).

Is travel insurance mandatory for USA?

It is not listed as mandatory, but medical cover for the whole trip is strongly recommended.

Where do Indians apply for a USA visa?

Apply only on the official website (US Department of State, Visitor Visa). Avoid unofficial sites that charge extra fees.

Can Indians get a US visa on arrival?

No. Indian passport holders must get a visa in advance. ESTA is not available.

Do I need an interview?

Most first-time applicants do. Some renewals within 48 months may qualify for an interview waiver .

How long is the B1/B2 valid?

Usually 10 years, but this is decided by the consular officer.

Can I work on a tourist visa?

No. Any paid work is prohibited.

Can I apply in any Indian city?

You can book at any US mission in India if the slot is available.

Recent changes

  • Added the $250 Visa Integrity Fee and updated the total fee

Compare visa rules for other countries

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