This section gives you all details on visa rules and information. Here, you will find detailed information on all kinds of Visa, rules on visitor policies, visa forms and visa fees.
The visa section of the U.S. Embassy, New Delhi, U.S. Consulate General, Chennai, and U.S. Consulate General, Mumbai conduct non-immigrant visa interviews by appointment only, during from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm, from Monday to Friday (except for holidays and other closures). The Embassy and Consulates are closed for public on the last Wednesday of every month.
Usually, a citizen of a foreign country who intends to enter the United States must first get a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for temporary stay or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Citizens of qualified countries can pay visit to the US without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program. All travelers coming to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program must obtain authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) system before initiating travel to the United State.
If the applicant do not qualify for the Visa Waiver Program
(Note: Indian Nationals do not qualify for the Visa Waiver Program) or are traveling to work, study, participate in an exchange program, or any other purpose which doesn’t fall under a ‘B’ visa purpose of travel, the applicant will require a nonimmigrant visa.
Visas for Applicants under 7 and over 80
Overview: Non-Immigrant Visa Interview Waivers for Applicants under 7 Years of Age and Over 80.
Please go through this information for the requirements of nonimmigrant visa interview waiver for applicants less than 7 years of age and more than 80 applied at any U.S. Consular office in India (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad or Kolkata).
Requirements:
Applicants under 7 years of age or more than 80 from the date of application submission doesn’t need to appear for a nonimmigrant visa interview at any Post in India. Such applicants may submit their visa applications through the Interview Waiver Program. All other rules, requirements and fees for those under 7 years of age and over 80 stay the same.
Supporting Documents
All applicants must include the following documents when submitting their applications:
- The applicant's valid passport.
- A completed DS-160 application barcode.
- A visa fee receipt (with both copies) for the present visa application fee.
- Valid visa copy of the same visa category of either of the parents in which the child is applying (case specific).
Note: Parents having the appointment scheduled together with the child under 7 years of age should submit the requisite above documents during the time of their Interview at Embassy / Consulate. It should be noted that the issuance of Visa for applicants not appearing in person is not guaranteed. The Embassy / Consulate may in some cases, after evaluating an application, ask the child / children to appear in person.
Application Items
If you apply for a business / tourist visa, you must submit the following:
- A Non-immigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) Form. Visit the DS-160 webpage for more details about the DS-160.
- A passport valid for travel to the United States with a validity date of at least six months beyond applicant’s intended period of stay in the United States (unless country-specific agreements provide any exemptions). If over one person is included in applicant’s passport, each person desiring a visa must submit an application.
- A receipt showing payment of applicant’s US$160 non-refundable nonimmigrant visa application processing fee paid in local currency. This web page has more information about paying this fee. If a visa is issued, there may be an additional visa issuance reciprocity fee, depending on applicant’s nationality. The Department of State's website can help applicant find out if applicant must pay a visa issuance reciprocity fee and what the fee amount is.
- In addition to these items, applicants must present an interview appointment letter confirming that he / she booked an appointment through the systematic service. Applicants may also bring whatever supporting documents which they may believe support the information provided to the consular officer.
How to Apply
Step 1: Pay the visa application fee:
Note: Applicants are limited to the number of times they can rearrange their appointments. Please plan accordingly so that applicants are not required to pay another visa application fee. Visa application fees are non- refundable.
In order to ensure the proper amount is paid and activated a timely manner, applicants are required to first create a profile HERE (on here button the page should jump to following link): (
//cgifederal.secure.force.com/) and choose the Schedule Appointment option. On the payment confirmation screen, the applicant will be presented with payment options and further information / details of ‘how to initiate payment’. Applicants must note that it can take up to 2 business days from time of payment for your receipt to be activated.
A. National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT):
Applicants can pay their Machine Readable Visa (MRV) Fee using the popular and suitable NEFT payment system as well.
If applicant’s bank supports NEFT Payments, then he / she may pay the nonimmigrant visa application fee with a NEFT transfer directly from his / her bank account. Over 87, 000 bank branches are facilitated with the service of making NEFT payments. Applicant may also make his / her NEFT payment through online banking or mobile banking meaning he / she do not have to visit the nearest bank branch. Applicants should also be aware that the bank may apply charges to his / her account for NEFT transactions.
After logging into the profile and while on the payment confirmation screen, applicant will receive a unique account number to which he / she will send the NEFT payment. Applicants must make only one payment per unique account number as there are the payment is non-refundable.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT APPLICANT SHOULD KEEP THE UNIQUE ACCOUNT NUMBER THAT HE / SHE ACTUALLY USE TO MAKE HIS / HER NEFT PAYMENT. Applicant must have this number as proof of payment in order to schedule the visa interview appointment. It is the applicant's duty to save this number. If not, applicant may not be able to schedule an interview with your payment.
B. Payment by Mobile Phone (IMPS):
Applicants having a mobile phone may pay their MRV Fee via their phone using the IMPs system, however, the applicant must be pre-registered with their bank to complete payment via their mobile phone and be in possession of a valid MPIN.
Payment of Visa fees shall be made in Indian Rupees (INR) and must be the exact amount as listed on the payment confirmation screen available after logging into your
profile (on
//cgifederal.secure.force.com/)
Applicants can initiate an IMPS payment via SMS to their bank or via the m-banking facility provided by their financial institution.
Applicants should enter the correct Beneficiary Mobile Number, Beneficiary MMID number and correct amount(s).
Please note, many banks operate a payment limit of INR 5,000/- per transaction. To see a list of daily limits employed by India banks, please click
here the word should jump to the following link-
//www.npci.org.in/impsmerpayp2p.aspx:
After successful payment verification, applicant will receive a SMS containing the 12 digit IMPS reference number. Applicants should then enter the IMPS reference number after logging into their profile. Once verified, the applicants will be able to proceed to the appointment scheduling stage.
Applicants must note that it is very important to pay the correct fee as paying the incorrect amount may cause delays in scheduling their appointment.
Applicants who make the payment via the IMPS system during regular business hours (9AM - 5PM) will be able to schedule their appointment within 3 hours. Applicants who make their payment after 6PM will be able to schedule their appointment after 9AM in the next business day.
C. Cash - Over the Counter (AXIS Bank / Citibank):
You can pay your non-immigrant visa application fee in cash at any of the designated AXIS or Citibank branches. Before going to the bank, applicant must take print and carry the applicable U.S. visa fee collection slip available after logging into the profile. Take the completed fee collection slip to the bank when applicant pays his / her fee. After receiving the payment, the bank will give applicant a receipt. Values are shown in (USD); however the Fee payable is in Indian Rupees (INR) at the current Consular Exchange rate.
Locations:
Visit the following link for bank locations:
//www.ustraveldocs.com/in/in-loc-bank.asp#locations
D. Cash - Over the Counter at DRUK Bank:
Applicant can pay his / her non-immigrant visa application fee in cash at any of 4 DRUK Bank branch. Before going to the bank, applicants must print and carry the applicable U.S. visa fee collection slip available after logging into the profile. Take the completed fee collection slip to the bank when he / she pays the fee. Applicants must make sure that they pay the exact amount indicated on the deposit slip. After receiving the payment, the bank will give you a receipt. Values are shown in U.S. dollars (USD); however the Fee payable is in Bhutan Ngultrums (BT)
Restrictions:
Applicants must know that visa application fee is non-refundable and one cannot transfer it to another person. Applicants will get a receipt after paying the application fee. The receipt remains valid for one year from the date of payment and permits the applicant to schedule the interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Thus, applicants must schedule their interview while the receipt is valid, which means the interview must be booked within one year of paying the fee. If applicants do not schedule an interview within a year of payment then it will expire and they won’t be able to schedule an interview and will need to pay the fee again and begin the process again in the same manner.
Step 2: About the Form DS-160
The Form DS-160 is online
here (it should jump on the following link-
//ceac.state.gov/genniv/).
You can find information and an FAQ about the DS-160
here (it should jump on the following link-
//travel.state.gov/content/visas/english/forms/ds-160--online-nonimmigrant-visa-application/frequently-asked-questions.html).
Step 3: The Appointment
Now the applicant can schedule his / her appointment on this web page appeared. The applicant will require the following three important details in order to schedule his / her appointment:
- Applicant’s passport number.
- The date applicant paid his / her fee.
- The ten (10) digit barcode number from applicant’s DS-160 confirmation page.
Step 4: Visiting the US Embassy or Consulate for Visa Interview
Applicants are requested to visit the U.S. Embassy or Consulate on the date and time of the visa interview. They must bring a printed copy of his / her appointment letter, DS-160 confirmation page, one photograph (taken within the last six months), present and all old passports, and the original visa fee payment receipt. Applications without all of the mentioned items won’t be accepted.
Offsite Collection Services:
After the completion of the online application, most of the applicants will be required to have an appointment at an Offsite Facilitation Center (OFC) prior to their appointment at the Consular Sections. The Biometric information such as digital photographs and fingerprints will be collected at the OFC.
Applicants applying for US visas are required to appear in person twice. One, for an appointment at the OFC and Second, for the visa interview at the US Embassy or Consulate.
Applicant should schedule the OFC appointment at least one day before the interview appointment date. Applicants can schedule both appointments, either online using this website or through the call center.
Supporting Documents
Applicants will need to bring the following:
- A passport with validity to travel to the United States with validity date at least six months beyond the intended period of stay in the United States (unless country-specific agreements provide exemptions). If over one person is included in applicant passport, each person wishing a visa must submit an application.
- Applicant’s DS-160 confirmation page.
- Applicant’s appointment confirmation page.
OFC Operation Hours:
- Monday to Friday - 0800 to 1700 hrs.
- Sunday - 1300 to 1800 hrs.
OFC Locations
- Mumbai: Trade Center, Gr. Floor, G Block, Bandrakurla Complex, Bandra East, Mumbai - 400041
- Chennai: No 3, Cenotaph Road, Teynampet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu - 600018
- Hyderabad: 502, Gowra Grand, S. P. Road, Begumpet, Secunderabad - 500003
- Kolkata: Jasmine Tower, 31, Shakespeare Sarani (1st Floor), Kolkata - 700017
- Delhi: S - 1 American Plaza, (Hotel Eros Managed by Hilton), International Trade Tower, Nehru Place, New Delhi - 110019
Photograph Requirements across all cases:
The photograph should measure 50 mm X 50 mm, should not be older than 6 months, should be taken against a white or off-white background and with the head-centred in the frame. The head (measured from the top of the hair to the bottom of the chin) must measure between 25 mm to 35 mm with the eye level between 28 mm and 35 mm from the bottom of the photo. The specific photograph requirements are as follows:
- The photo must be a full face view in which the visa applicant is facing the camera directly.
- The applicant should not look down or to either side, and the face should cover about 50 percent of the photo area.
- Side or angled views are NOT acceptable.
- The photo should be in colour, and must have only a white or off-white background. Photos with dark, busy, or patterned backgrounds will not be accepted.
- In general, the applicant's head, including both face and hair, should be shown from the crown of the head to the tip of the chin on top and bottom and from hairline side-to-side. It would also be preferable that ears be exposed.
- Head coverings and hats are only acceptable due to religious beliefs, and even then, may not cover any portion of the applicant's face.
- Sunglasses or other wear that detracts from the face are not suitable unless required for medical reasons, for example, an eye patch.
- A photo of an applicant wearing a traditional facemask or veil that does not permit adequate identification is not permitted.
- Photos of military, airline, or other personnel wearing hats are not permitted.
- A photo of an applicant wearing tribal, national costume, or other headgear not religious in nature, is not acceptable.
- A photo of a minor child must contain no one else. If the child needs to be supported, the means of support should not be in the camera's frame.
- Group photos are NOT permitted. As a separate visa is issued to each qualified applicant, a photo of each applicant is required.
- Digital photos must meet all the requirements and reproduced without any dot patterns or pixels being visible.
- Digitally scanned photos and photocopied photos are NOT acceptable. Photographs in original are only acceptable.
- Photographs which have been digitally altered or retouched will NOT acceptable. The applicant's appearance and the background of the picture must also not be altered.
Visa Categories
- Non-Immigrant Visa: Tourist
- Business
- Student
- Temporary Work Visa
Non-Immigrant Visa: Tourist Visa
After completing all of the requirements, applicants will be required to appear for a personal interview. At the time of personal visa interview, the applicants will be asked to scan their four fingers and a thumb of each hand electronically. Applicants, who are required to be fingerprinted, and have a cut or blister or other temporary skin injury on their index fingers may not be issued a visa until their finger heals before they can be fingerprinted. The scanned fingerprint data collected at the time of interview will be matched with fingerprint scans at the US port of entry to check the misuse of US visas by impostors and by those wanted for more serious offences. Applicants must note that all visa applicants, regardless of their age or visa category, need to appear for an interview at the Embassy or Consulate.
- The Applicant’s passport must be valid for at least six months from the desired date of entry. It should be noted that the validity of the visa issued will in no case extend the validity of the passport.
- One passport-size photograph (as per the specifications mentioned above).
- A duly completed and signed Visa Application Form online: DS-160 (as per specifications given above).
- Birth certificate and, if applicable, parents' valid visas (in case of children's applications).
- A printout of Appointment confirmation.
- If the applicant is employed, he / she should carry a letter from employer giving details of the position, salary, and duration of employment with the company; the period of authorized vacation; and the brief purpose of your U.S. trip.
- Income Tax Returns statements for the last three (3) years.
- Itemized Bank statements and other documents to show the assets of the Applicant (if any) is required / should be carried along.
- If the Applicant is in Government Service or with the Armed Forces, a No Objection Letter (NOC) or Certificate and sanctioned Leave Letter is required.
- Dependents joining their spouse on-board ship need to carry their original marriage certificate and entire wedding photo album along with the spouse's visa copy.
In the event of having a Sponsor the following documents are required of him / her:
- It is also helpful to carry evidence of how the trip will be financed along with letters of sponsorship, deputation or invitation.
- An Affidavit of Support (Form I-134) from the Sponsor.
- Bank statements documents.
- Employment Letter (if any).
- Copies of the Passport (along with the visa pages) of the Relative in the United States.
- Documents to show the Sponsor's legal status in the United States.
For parents visiting a child resident in the U.S.:
- If child is an Indian citizen.
- Child’s original birth certificate.
- Photocopy of all pages of child's passport.
- Where the U.S. visa of child has expired, photocopy of the renewed petition is needed.
- Where child is a legal permanent resident in USA, photocopy of the green card (front and back) is needed.
- The US Department of Homeland Security's Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (BCIS) inspector at the port of entry decides your length of stay in the United States.
Important notes:
Applicants are recommended to keep photocopies of their passport's data pages and of the US visa. A US non-immigrant visa is a very valuable document. The applicant must inform the US Embassy / Consulate from where his / her visa was issued directly if in case has lost the passport. Applicant would need to obtain a new non-immigrant visa. At the time of the interview, applicant must present the Police First Incident Report (FIR) from the Police precinct where the passport was lost in India or overseas as well as a photocopy of the lost Passport and valid US visa, if possible.
If the applicant has been refused a US non-immigrant visa under Section 214(b), then he / she may schedule a new appointment. Applicants must show a significant change in his / her circumstances or present undeniable new evidence to the judging Consular Officer at a subsequent interview in order to be granted a new visa. Applicants must note that there is no limitation on the number of times of application for a non-immigrant visa.
The application fees are listed below and apply to one visa application. The application fee for the most common non-immigrant visa types is $160. This includes tourist, business, student, and exchange visas. Most of the petition-based visas, such as work and religious visas, costs US$190. K visas cost US$240 and the fee amount for E visas is US$270. The tables below are a more comprehensive list of visa types and fee amounts.
Applicants should note that the Visa Fee is Non-refundable and payable, whether a visa is granted or not.
There is NO separate Service Charge for VFS in process of USA Visa.
Consular Exchange Rate: 65.00 INR = 1 USD (Post 2013)
| Category
| Amount In Rs.
| Other Amounts
|
| Business / Tourist (B) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Transit (C-1) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Ship/Airline Crew (D) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Treaty Trader/Investor, Australian Professional Specialty (E) |
Rs. 17550 |
$270 |
| Student (academic) (F) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Temporary/Seasonal Workers and Employment, Trainees (H) |
Rs. 12350 |
$190 |
| Journalist and Media (I) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Exchange Visitor (J) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Fiance(e) or Spouse of U.S. Citizen (K) |
Rs. 15600 |
$240 |
| Intracompany Transferees (L) |
Rs. 12350 |
$190 |
| Student (vocational) (M) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Persons with Extraordinary Ability (O) |
Rs. 12350 |
$190 |
| Athletes. Artists & Entertainers (P) |
Rs. 12350 |
$190 |
| International Cultural Exchange (Q) |
Rs. 12350 |
$190 |
| Religious Worker (R) |
Rs. 12350 |
$190 |
| Victim of Human Trafficking (T) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| NAFTA Professionals (TN/TD) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Victim of Criminal Activity (U) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
Non-Immigrant Visa: Tourist Visa
Business Visa
After completing all of the requirements, applicants will be required to appear for a personal interview. At the time of personal visa interview, the applicants will be asked to scan their four fingers and a thumb of each hand electronically. Applicants, who are required to be fingerprinted, and have a cut or blister or other temporary skin injury on their index fingers may not be issued a visa until their finger heals before they can be fingerprinted. The scanned fingerprint data collected at the time of interview will be matched with fingerprint scans at the US port of entry to check the misuse of US visas by impostors and by those wanted for more serious offences. Applicants must note that all visa applicants, regardless of their age or visa category, need to appear for an interview at the Embassy or Consulate.
- The Applicant’s passport must be valid for at least six months from the desired date of entry. It should be noted that the validity of the visa issued will in no case extend the validity of the passport.
- One passport-size photograph (as per the specifications mentioned above).
- A duly completed and signed Visa Application Form online: DS-160 (as per specifications given above).
- Application documents should be included with a covering letter from the company.
- An Appointment Letter.
- An Invitation Letter from the US Counterpart / Company.
- Documentary proof of exchanges of Correspondence with U.S. Purchasers, Suppliers or Contacts.
- Bank transaction statements detailing all deposits and withdrawals for the past 6 months. The Personal and Company accounts need to be submitted, along with evidence of authority to draw on the Company Accounts.
- Copies of recent advertising brochures or publications (if any).
- Incorporation documents and business license(s).
- Recent contracts, Bills of Lading and any other documentary proof of recent imports and exports of purchases.
- A printout of an Appointment confirmation.
- Income Tax Returns for the last two (2) years.
- Itemized Bank statements and other documents to show the assets of the Applicant (if any) is required / should be carried along.
- The US Department of Homeland Security's Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (BCIS) inspector at the port of entry decides your length of stay in the United States.
Important notes:
Applicants are recommended to keep photocopies of their passport's data pages and of the US visa. A US non-immigrant visa is a very valuable document. The applicant must inform the US Embassy / Consulate from where his / her visa was issued directly if in case has lost the passport. Applicant would need to obtain a new non-immigrant visa. At the time of the interview, applicant must present the Police First Incident Report (FIR) from the Police precinct where the passport was lost in India or overseas as well as a photocopy of the lost Passport and valid US visa, if possible.
If the applicant has been refused a US non-immigrant visa under Section 214(b), then he / she may schedule a new appointment. Applicants must show a significant change in his / her circumstances or present undeniable new evidence to the judging Consular Officer at a subsequent interview in order to be granted a new visa. Applicants must note that there is no limitation on the number of times of application for a non-immigrant visa.
The application fees are listed below and apply to one visa application. The application fee for the most common non-immigrant visa types is $160. This includes tourist, business, student, and exchange visas. Most of the petition-based visas, such as work and religious visas, costs US$190. K visas cost US$240 and the fee amount for E visas is US$270. The tables below are a more comprehensive list of visa types and fee amounts.
Applicants should note that the Visa Fee is Non-refundable and payable, whether a visa is granted or not.
There is NO separate Service Charge for VFS in process of USA Visa.
Consular Exchange Rate: 65.00 INR = 1 USD (Post 2013)
| Category
| Amount In Rs.
| Other Amounts
|
| Business / Tourist (B) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Transit (C-1) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Ship/Airline Crew (D) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Treaty Trader/Investor, Australian Professional Specialty (E) |
Rs. 17550 |
$270 |
| Student (academic) (F) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Temporary/Seasonal Workers and Employment, Trainees (H) |
Rs. 12350 |
$190 |
| Journalist and Media (I) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Exchange Visitor (J) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Fiance(e) or Spouse of U.S. Citizen (K) |
Rs. 15600 |
$240 |
| Intracompany Transferees (L) |
Rs. 12350 |
$190 |
| Student (vocational) (M) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Persons with Extraordinary Ability (O) |
Rs. 12350 |
$190 |
| Athletes. Artists & Entertainers (P) |
Rs. 12350 |
$190 |
| International Cultural Exchange (Q) |
Rs. 12350 |
$190 |
| Religious Worker (R) |
Rs. 12350 |
$190 |
| Victim of Human Trafficking (T) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| NAFTA Professionals (TN/TD) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Victim of Criminal Activity (U) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
Business Visa
Student Visa
Academic studies (F visa):
After completing all of the requirements, applicants will be required to appear for a personal interview. At the time of personal visa interview, the applicants will be asked to scan their four fingers and a thumb of each hand electronically. Applicants, who are required to be fingerprinted, and have a cut or blister or other temporary skin injury on their index fingers may not be issued a visa until their finger heals before they can be fingerprinted. The scanned fingerprint data collected at the time of interview will be matched with fingerprint scans at the US port of entry to check the misuse of US visas by impostors and by those wanted for more serious offences. Applicants must note that all visa applicants, regardless of their age or visa category, need to appear for an interview at the Embassy or Consulate.
This visa applies to the people seeking to study or conduct research at an official U.S. college or University. The following documents will be required to apply for the same:
- Applicant should carry / obtain all the requisite documents for any non-immigrant visa.
- An I-20 Form
- A Certificate of Eligibility for Non-Immigrant Student Status, obtained from the U.S. College, School or University.
- Both pages of the new, bar coded SEVIS form. The form should be duly signed by the Applicant and a School Official.
- All the Mark sheets, Transcripts and Certificates from all previous institutions attended.
- Certificate of scores from U.S. standardized tests such as the TOEFL, SAT, GRE, GMAT (wherever applicable).
Any financial documentation submitted should be in support of this (of the studies). This implies to all student visa applicants. The documents may include the following:
- Original Income Tax Returns for the last 3 years (especially Form 16).
- Original Bank records for the past 3 years, and / or fixed deposit statement of Parent or Sponsor.
- If the Applicant receives a scholarship, it is noted on the I-20 and favorably considered by the Visa Officer.
- The US Consulate discourages Applicants from bringing property deeds or certified copies of financial documents.
- If the Applicant is financially supported by an Individual in the U.S, the notarized From I-134 (Affidavit of support) along with the Sponsors Income Tax Returns and Bank Statements for the past 3 years is suggested (required).
Evidences proving that funds are readily available to cover the First Year's costs, proof that funds for tuition fees will be available for all subsequent years.
Any financial documentation presented should be in support of the above conditions. This applies to all Applicants.
Academic studies as an Exchange Visitor (J visa/ J-1 visa):
This visa is for participation in exchange visitor programs in the United States. The "J" visa is the primary visa for educational and cultural exchange programs.
- J-1 visas are for International Exchange visitors to the United States. The visitors can be Academics, Businesspeople, Scientists, or Students visiting the U.S. under the sponsorship of, or funded by, Individual Universities, the U.S. Government, Private Companies, or their own Government. J-2 visas are for dependents of J-1 visas.
- The Organizations sponsoring an Exchange Visitor should be approved for program acceptance by the Department of State. The approval grants the Organization the authority to issue Form DS-2019 to prospective J-1 Applicants. It should be noted that the approval does not assure applicant of a visa, and does not imply U.S. government endorsement of the program or sponsor.
Applicants for Exchange Visitor (J-1) visas should include the following documents with their application:
- All the documents required for any non-immigrant visa.
- All pages of the Form DS-2019 completed and duly signed (in original- it should be noted that no copies will be accepted).
- Transcripts and Diplomas from previous Institutions attended.
- Financial evidence proving the availability of sufficient funds to cover the tuition and living expenses during the period of Study.
Any financial documentation provided should be in support of this. This applies to all student visa applicants. They might include:
- Original Income Tax Returns for the last 3 years (specifically Form 16).
- Original Bank records for the last 3 years, and / or fixed deposit statement of Parent or Sponsor.
- If the Applicant receives a scholarship, it is noted on the I-20 and favorably considered by the Visa Officer.
- The US Consulate discourages Applicants from bringing property deeds or certified copies of financial documents.
- If the Applicant is financially supported by an Individual in the U.S, the notarized From I-134 (Affidavit of support) along with the Sponsors Income Tax Returns and Bank Statements for the past 3 years is suggested.
If the Exchange-Visit is being funded out of personal funds, original Bankbooks and the like are the clearest proof of adequate funds.
If the Applicant’s visit is being funded by an Organization (either in India or America), a Letter from the Organization mentioning the nature of the funding will help to process the case on a speedy basis.
Non-Academic or Vocational Studies (M Visa):
- This visa is implied on students seeking to study or train at a non-academic institution in the U.S.
- The ‘M visa’ can be issued to International Students who are going to the US to pursue a full-time course of study at an established Vocational School or other Non-Academic School that has been approved by the USCIS. Schools that may be approved for attendance by M-1 Students include:
- A Community College or Junior College which provides vocational or technical training and awards recognized Associate Degrees, a School that provides Vocational, a Vocational High School, or Non-Academic training other than language training.
For Acquiring M-1 status and duration:
- The procedures for getting M-1 status parallel those for the F-1 student visa.
- The M-1 student must have been admitted into an Authorized School, and the designated School Official (DSO) must have issued the I-20 in the US.
- Potential M-1 students won’t be able to enroll in the School's programmes, if they were primarily admitted in B-1 or B-2 status.
- Unlike the F-1, who is granted duration of status for his / her studies, a person who is admitted or changed to M-1 status is granted a 'date certain' for the period of study set forth on Form I-20MN (plus 30 days) or one year, whichever is less. The M-1 grace period is only half the time of the 60-day F-1 grade period.
- The M-1 student should be enrolled for a full course of study. For community or junior college M-1 students, this means 12 credit hours so long as that is deemed full-time by the institution.
- For post-secondary vocational students, this normally means at least 18 hours of classroom instruction per week or, if mainly a shop or laboratory-based curriculum, at least 22 clock hours per week of instruction.
- An M-1 student who has been compelled to interrupt or lessen a course of study may be granted an extension of stay. However, the increasing time of extensions that can be granted to an M-1 student is limited to a period of three years from the M-1's initial start date, plus 30 days. If the M-1 cannot complete his / her programme during this extended time, no further extensions will be granted.
- The areas usually covered under M-1 include commercial pilot training, gem and jewellery related training, fashion designing, etc.
Requirements for Visas to Attend Flight Training School in the US:
The procedures for obtaining an M visa to attend US flight schools have changed. All applicants for M visas for US flight training will need to submit the below mentioned documents:
Purpose for the training; Present Employer and Applicant's position; Name and relationship of the Sponsor who will be paying for the training; latest flight certifications and ratings; and the information on what kind of aircraft the training is for. The documents must be duly signed by a school official in the US.
For Extension of Stay, Transfers, Change of Status and Employment:
- The M-1 and any M-2 Spouse or Children (below 21) need to apply for an extension of stay annually with Form I-539, (filing fee USD 200) submitted to a USCIS service centre having jurisdiction over the school the M-1 Student was last authorized to attend.
- The application must be enclosed with an endorsement from the DS on the Student's SEVIS Form I-20 and the Student's and his/her Dependants' I-94 arrival/departure forms.
- One rather inflexible area of the regulations notes that transfers of schools are not allowed after the M-1 has been in status for 6 months unless the M-1 is not able to stay at the original school for reasons beyond the M-1's control. No change in educational objective (like change in major or degree program) is permitted.
- An M-1 follows similar procedures as the F-1 with respect to transferring schools, except the M-1 also need to submit form I-539, the new I-20 and I-94 to the appropriate USCIS service centre for further approval.
- Although M visa holders may normally apply for a change of status, an M-1 is prohibited from changing to H status if the M-1's qualification for H status is based on credentials gained as an M-1. Also, an M-1 may not request a change of status to F-1 (although an M-2 can change to F-1 status).
- Non-immigrant students in the M-1 classification are not permitted to engage in any employment except for post-completion practical training. An M-1 may apply to the USCIS on Form I-765 (filing fee $180) no more than 90 days before graduation for practical training in a proposed position which is relevant to the course of study. The DSO must endorse the M-1's SEVIS I-20MN and endorse that it is his/her information and belief that the comparable employment is occupied in the Student's country of foreigner.
- The application must display that the training can be completed within the time that may be permitted. The M-1 may be granted one month of training for every four months of study, with not exceeding six months in total. An employment authorization document (EAD) will be issued if the training is approved.
Mandatory Documents for M-1 visa:
- Photocopies of the first page, address page and last page of the present passport carried by the applicant.
- One passport-size photograph (as per the specifications mentioned above).
- Original DS-160, Non-Immigrant visa application form.
- Original DS-160, Supplemental Non-Immigrant visa application form.
- Original Form DS-160.
- Copy of Form I-20, approved and duly signed by the university authority.
- Evidence of payment of SEVIS fee receipt I-901, if applicable.
Supporting Documents for M-1 visa:
- The Original passport.
- The Letter of appointment for the Interview.
- SEVIS generated Form I-20 in original, approved and duly signed by the University authority.
- Proof of payment of SEVIS fee receipt I-901, if applicable.
- Original Degree Certificates along with relevant Mark Sheets.
- Original Bachelor Degree Transcripts or High School Diploma along with Mark Sheets from previous Institutions attended.
- Proof of Financial Resources.
- Evidence of liquid assets enough to pay for the entire first year of Education and living expenses as well as proof of readily available funds to cover the remaining year(s) of studies.
Any financial documentation presented should be in support of this. This applies to all student visa applicants.They will include:
- Original Income Tax Returns for the past 3 years (especially Form 16).
- Original Bank records for the past 3 years, and / or fixed deposit statement of Parent or Sponsor.
- If the Applicant receives a scholarship, it is noted on the I-20 and favorably considered by the Visa Officer.
- The US Consulate discourages Applicants from bringing property deeds or certified copies of financial documents.
- If the Applicant is financially supported by an Individual in the U.S, the notarized From I-134 (Affidavit of support) along with the Sponsors Income Tax Returns and Bank Statements for the past 3 years is suggested.
Effective from November 20, 2010, the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in India will begin collecting an additional fee of $2,000 for certain H-1B petitions and $2,250 for certain L-1A and L-1B petitions that fall under the provisions of Public Law 111-230.These additional fees apply to petitioners with over 50 employees in the United States and with more than 50 percent of those employees in H-1B or L (including L-1A, L-1B, and L-2) status.
The visa application fees are listed below and apply for one visa application. The application fee for the most common non-immigrant visa types is $160. This includes tourist, student, business, and exchange visas. Most petition-based visas, such as work and religious visas are US$190. K visas cost US $240 and the fee amount for E visas is US$270. The tables below are a more comprehensive list of visa types and fee amounts.
Visa Fee is Non-refundable and payable, whether a visa is issued or not.
There is NO separate Service Charge for VFS in process of USA Visa.
Consular Exchange Rate: 65.00 INR = 1 USD
| Category
| Amount In Rs.
| Other Amounts
|
| Business / Tourist (B) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Transit (C-1) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Ship/Airline Crew (D) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Treaty Trader/Investor, Australian Professional Specialty (E) |
Rs. 17550 |
$270 |
| Student (academic) (F) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Temporary/Seasonal Workers and Employment, Trainees (H) |
Rs. 12350 |
$190 |
| Journalist and Media (I) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Exchange Visitor (J) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Fiance(e) or Spouse of U.S. Citizen (K) |
Rs. 15600 |
$240 |
| Intracompany Transferees (L) |
Rs. 12350 |
$190 |
| Student (vocational) (M) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Persons with Extraordinary Ability (O) |
Rs. 12350 |
$190 |
| Athletes. Artists & Entertainers (P) |
Rs. 12350 |
$190 |
| International Cultural Exchange (Q) |
Rs. 12350 |
$190 |
| Religious Worker (R) |
Rs. 12350 |
$190 |
| Victim of Human Trafficking (T) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| NAFTA Professionals (TN/TD) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Victim of Criminal Activity (U) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
Student Visa
Temporary Work Visa
Temporary Work Visas H1-B, L-1: There are a number of categories of temporary worker visas some of which are listed below.
After completing all of the requirements, applicants will be required to appear for a personal interview. At the time of personal visa interview, the applicants will be asked to scan their four fingers and a thumb of each hand electronically. Applicants, who are required to be fingerprinted, and have a cut or blister or other temporary skin injury on their index fingers may not be issued a visa until their finger heals before they can be fingerprinted. The scanned fingerprint data collected at the time of interview will be matched with fingerprint scans at the US port of entry to check the misuse of US visas by impostors and by those wanted for more serious offences. Applicants must note that all visa applicants, regardless of their age or visa category, need to appear for an interview at the Embassy or Consulate.
All applicants for these kinds of visas must have a petition approved by the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Service (BCIS) before applying for the visa. Petitions can’t be filed with the Embassy; they should be filed in the U.S.
Categories of Work Visas:
H-1B: Persons in a Specialty Occupation.
H-2B: Temporary or Seasonal Non-agricultural Workers.
H-3: Trainees other than Medical or Academic. It also applies to Practical Training in the education of Handicapped Children.
H-4: Dependants of H visa Holders.
L-1: Intra-Company Transferees.
L-2: Dependants of L-1 visa Holders.
O-1/ O-2: Visas for Persons of Extraordinary Ability.
P-3: Artists or Entertainers in a Culturally Unique Program.
Requirements for a H-1B or L-1 visa are:
- All the requisite documents for any non-immigrant visa.
- Notice of Approval I-797 (in original).
- The complete petition submitted by the potential Employer including the Labor Condition Application (LCA - not applicable to L-1 applicants) and the I-129.
- The originals documents of University Diplomas, Mark Sheets and any other relevant Certificates. (Secondary School Information is not needed).
- Letters of Work Experience from applicant’s previous Employers.
- One set of photocopy of all of the above mentioned documents.
- A Letter from the Petitioning Employer confirming the Employer's wish to hire the Applicant.
- L visa Applicants must submit a Letter from their Employer mentioning the length of association with the Company.
- Pay stubs from the present or most recent place of Employment.
All First time Applicants are also requested to bring the following items:
- Names and present phone numbers of the Personnel Managers at the Applicant's current and past Jobs.
- Photographs of the inside and outside of the current or the most recent Employer's place of business.
- Names and contact information of two co-workers from the current or most recent place of Employment.
- Names and contact information of two co-workers from past Jobs.
- A complete resume and Cover Letter giving details about the present job duties.
- Applicant’s personal bank records for the last six months.
- Information of the company in the US: Photographs of the inside and outside of the Company's Offices, prospectus, brochures, and Annual Report.
The Embassy will not accept documents received directly from the company by mail or fax. All documents should be brought by the applicant at the time of interview. The Embassy will not make this information available to anyone and will destroy the same after review.
An H-1B visa holder, after changing H-1B Employers in accordance with Department of Homeland Security (DHS) procedures for making such a change, may continue to use his or her original H-1B visa for entry into the United States. Upon applying for entry, the visa holder must present the new Form I-797A, Notice of Action proving the approval of the change of Employer in addition to the visa.
Dependent Visas: H-4, L-2
Applicants for the related dependent visas, H-4 and L-2 visas, should submit the following documents:
- All requisite documents for any Non-Immigrant visa.
- The Marriage Registration Certificate and the original Birth Certificate for each Child.
- Wedding Invitation card and Wedding Ceremony photos.
- All 36 pages of the Principal Applicant's passport (if not applying with the Principal Applicant).
- A Letter from the Spouse's Employer confirming continued Employment of the applicant.
- Copy of the Principal Applicant's I797, I129 and LCA.
- Copy of the Principal Applicant's Work Experience Letters.
- Copy of the Principal Applicant's Letter of Offer from the US Company.
- Pay stubs from Principal Applicant's current place of Work and Income Tax Return.
- It should be noted that the Embassy won’t accept documents received directly from the Company by mail or fax.
- All documents should be brought by the Applicant(s) on the interview. Applicants should note that the Embassy will not make this information available to anyone and destroy the same after review.
Effective from November 20, 2010, the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in India will begin collecting an additional fee of $2,000 for certain H-1B petitions and $2,250 for certain L-1A and L-1B petitions that fall under the provisions of Public Law 111-230. These additional fees apply to petitioners with over 50 employees in the United States and with more than 50 percent of those employees in H-1B or L (including L-1A, L-1B, and L-2) status.
The visa application fees are listed below and apply for one visa application. The application fee for the most common non-immigrant visa types is $160. This includes tourist, student, business, and exchange visas. Most petition-based visas, such as work and religious visas are US$190. K visas cost US $240 and the fee amount for E visas is US$270. The tables below are a more complete list of visa types and fee amounts.
Visa Fee is Non-refundable and payable, whether a visa is issued or not.
There is NO separate Service Charge for VFS in process of USA Visa.
Consular Exchange Rate: 65.00 INR = 1 USD
Expiration Date: 09/01/2014
| Category
| Amount In Rs.
| Other Amounts
|
| Business / Tourist (B) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Transit (C-1) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Ship/Airline Crew (D) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Treaty Trader/Investor, Australian Professional Specialty (E) |
Rs. 17550 |
$270 |
| Student (academic) (F) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Temporary/Seasonal Workers and Employment, Trainees (H) |
Rs. 12350 |
$190 |
| Journalist and Media (I) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Exchange Visitor (J) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Fiancé(e) or Spouse of U.S. Citizen (K) |
Rs. 15600 |
$240 |
| Intracompany Transferees (L) |
Rs. 12350 |
$190 |
| Student (vocational) (M) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Persons with Extraordinary Ability (O) |
Rs. 12350 |
$190 |
| Athletes. Artists & Entertainers (P) |
Rs. 12350 |
$190 |
| International Cultural Exchange (Q) |
Rs. 12350 |
$190 |
| Religious Worker (R) |
Rs. 12350 |
$190 |
| Victim of Human Trafficking (T) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| NAFTA Professionals (TN/TD) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
| Victim of Criminal Activity (U) |
Rs. 10400 |
$160 |
Temporary Work Visa
Find comprehensive information about the country you are visiting including its population to climate.
Name: United States of America
Location: North America
Time: The USA spans six time zones from IST (-) 10 1/2 hrs to IST (-) 15 1/2 hrs
Capital: Washington DC
Language: English 82.1%, Spanish 10.7%, other Indo-European 3.8%, Asian and Pacific island 2.7%, other 0.7% (2000 census) Area:9,809,155 sq kmsPopulation:316,668,567 (July 2013 est.)
National Day: 4 Jul (Independence Day)
Currency: US Dollar (USD) 1 = INR 56.19
Holidays: YEAR 2014: 1 Jan - New Year's Day, 20 Jan - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, 17 Feb - Presidents' Day, 26 May - Memorial Day, 4 Jul - Independence Day, 1 Sep - Labour Day, 13 Oct - Columbus Day, 11 Nov - Veterans' Day, 17 Nov - Thanksgiving Day, 25 Dec - Christmas Day.
International Airports: Boston, Chicago, Detroit Metropolitan, Fort Worth (Dallas), Houston, John F Kennedy (New York), Los Angeles, Miami, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Washington - Dulles and many more.
Visa Note & Fee