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How long does the process take?

Support Team avatar
Written by Support Team
Updated over a month ago

The timeline for obtaining a U.S. Tourist & Business Visa (B1/B2) depends on several factors, including how quickly you prepare your documents, how efficient your DS-160 submission is, and the availability of interview appointments at your chosen consulate. While some applicants complete the process in just a few weeks, others may wait months, especially in high-demand locations.

Key Stages of the Process

  1. DS-160 Completion and Review
    With VisaClick’s assistance, this step usually takes 24–48 hours. Our team ensures that your form is accurate, consistent, and free from errors that could cause delays.

  2. Payment of the Consular Fee
    The government fee of $185 USD must be paid on the official consular platform for your country. Confirmation of this payment is required before you can book an appointment.

  3. Appointment Scheduling
    Availability depends on the specific U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Some locations may offer appointments within a few weeks, while others have waiting times of several months. Seasonal demand, security restrictions, and political events can also impact availability.

  4. Interview and Processing
    After attending the interview, the decision may be made immediately. If approved, your passport is usually returned with the visa within 7–10 business days. In rare cases, “administrative processing” can extend this timeline.

Average Timelines

  • Application preparation (with VisaClick): 1–3 days.

  • Waiting for an appointment: From 2 weeks up to several months, depending on the consulate.

  • Post-interview visa issuance: Typically 1–2 weeks.

How VisaClick Reduces Waiting Time

Our team constantly monitors appointment systems and helps applicants secure earlier slots when cancellations occur. For urgent travel, we can prepare expedite requests to the U.S. government if your case qualifies under medical, humanitarian, or business urgency.

In summary, while the overall process can vary greatly, most VisaClick clients complete their application within a predictable timeframe. Having expert support ensures you move through each step efficiently without missing details that cause unnecessary delays.

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