Applying for a U.S. Tourist & Business Visa can feel overwhelming, especially if it is your first time. To make things easier, we’ve gathered the most frequently asked questions from applicants around the world. This guide provides clear, step-by-step answers to help you understand the process and prepare with confidence.
1. What is the U.S. Tourist & Business Visa (B1/B2)?
The B1/B2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows temporary travel to the United States.
B1 (Business): Meetings, conferences, short-term negotiations.
B2 (Tourism): Tourism, family visits, medical treatment, cultural events.
Most travelers receive a combined B1/B2 visa, valid for both purposes.
2. How much does the visa cost?
The cost includes:
Government Consular Fee: $185 USD, paid directly to the U.S. government.
VisaClick Service Fee: $165 USD per applicant for expert support, review, and interview preparation.
Visa Integrity Fee: $250 USD (effective October 1, 2025). Refundable if you respect visa rules and avoid overstays.
3. How long is the visa valid?
Validity depends on your nationality:
Many countries receive 10-year multiple-entry visas.
Others may have 1–5 years, or even shorter terms.
Regardless of validity, the length of stay per visit is typically up to 6 months, decided by the border officer.
4. What documents are required?
Mandatory: Passport, DS-160 confirmation, fee receipt, appointment letter.
Recommended: Bank statements, employment letters, travel itinerary, property proof, invitation letters, or medical evidence (if applicable).
5. How long does the process take?
DS-160 preparation and review: 1–2 days with VisaClick.
Appointment availability: 2 weeks to several months, depending on the consulate.
Visa issuance after interview: usually 7–10 business days.
Delays can occur due to high demand or administrative processing.
6. What happens at the consular interview?
Interviews last 5–10 minutes. The officer will ask about your trip, work, family, and finances. Consistency with your DS-160 is critical. Bring all key documents, even if they are not always requested. VisaClick offers mock interviews to help you prepare.
7. Can my family apply with me?
Yes. Each member (including children) must submit their own DS-160 and pay the fees. Families can book group appointments to attend the interview together. VisaClick helps keep all applications consistent and correctly linked.
8. How long can I stay in the U.S.?
Normally up to 6 months per entry. The exact length is decided at the port of entry and recorded in your I-94 form. Overstaying this date can result in penalties and future visa denials. Extensions are possible but require USCIS approval.
9. What are common reasons for refusal?
Weak ties to your home country.
Errors or inconsistencies in the DS-160.
Insufficient financial proof.
Previous overstays or immigration violations.
Most denials fall under Section 214(b), which assumes applicants intend to immigrate unless they prove otherwise.
10. What is the Visa Integrity Fee?
Effective October 1, 2025, the U.S. government charges a $250 Visa Integrity Fee for all non-immigrant visa categories.
Paid with your application.
Fully refundable if you respect visa validity and do not overstay.
Designed to promote compliance and discourage misuse.
VisaClick provides guidance on payment and refund procedures so you don’t miss this benefit.