How to Apply for a US Visa

The purpose of your intended travel and other facts will determine what type of visa is required under U.S. immigration law. As a visa applicant, you will need to establish that you meet all requirements to receive the category of visa for which you are applying.

See our Directory of Visa Categories on usvisas.state.gov to determine which visa category might be appropriate for your purpose of travel to the United States.

US Visa Application

To apply for a US visa you will follow a straightforward application procedure. The US visa application is done at a US Consulate or Embassy in your country of residence following these simple steps:

1. Check if you need a visa.
2. Choose the type of US visa you will apply for.
3. Fill in Application Form DS-160.
4. Pay your application fee.
5. Schedule visa interview.
6. Compile the document file.
7. Attend the visa interview.
8. Wait for processing.

Please visit our Global Support Services (GSS) website for complete information on applying for a non immigrant U.S. visa and to find a directory of non immigrant visa categories.

All applicants, including children, must book an appointment.  Applicants must access the GSS website to schedule or reschedule their own appointments.

It is important that applicants apply early, since appointments are given on a first-come, first-served basis.  All applicants, including children, must appear in person for an interview at the given time of appointment. Please carry a printout of your appointment details on the given date of appointment.

Any group of five or more applicants who are not related but are traveling together with the same itinerary must schedule an appointment for the entire group.  For more information on group processing, visit the U.S. Visa Service website.