Updated on 2 Dec 2025
When you plan on visiting the United States for leisure or business, you might have to apply for a US B1/B2 visa if you’re an Indian. This is a well-known visa category for short-term visits. The final step in the visa application is the interview, where the consular officer will assess your eligibility. Doing well during the interview stage is highly crucial. Every answer needs to be honest, confident and should be supported by the correct documents.
This blog uncovers what a B1/B2 visa is, the interview process, the documents needed and more.
What is the B1/B2 visa?
The B1/B2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows temporary travel to the United States for business (B1), tourism (B2) or a combination of both. This particular visa will normally let you enter the country for up to 6 months for each visit. Furthermore, it can also be valid for countless entries for several years.
Understanding the US B1/B2 visa interview
A detailed understanding of each visa type will significantly aid your preparation:
B1 Visa Specifics:
Those arriving in the US for brief business-related visits, such as conferences or consultations, should use this type of visa. Be prepared to discuss your company goals, meeting details, and the anticipated length of your activities in the US in great detail.
B2 Visa Specific:
Those visiting relatives, travelling to the US for business, or seeking medical attention can all benefit from this visa. During the interview, you will likely be asked about your travel schedule, where you will stay and how you intend to pay for your visit. Questions will also assess your ties to your home country to ensure you have sufficient reasons to return.
Common US B1/B2 visa interview questions and their answers
Below, you will find some commonly asked questions, as well as guidance on creating confident and clear responses during a B1/B2 interview:
Why are you visiting the United States?
Clearly and succinctly state the reason you are travelling. Mention specific activities like attending meetings or conferences if you are going for business. For tourism, describe key attractions or events you plan to visit.
Have you ever been to the US before?
Answer honestly about previous visits. If applicable, briefly describe the purpose of those visits to demonstrate your compliance with past visa conditions.
Do you currently know of any friends or family living in the United States?
If you know someone in the country, state their details, your relationship and how they connect to your journey. Being clear about their influence on your stay helps clarify your intentions.
Where will you be living in the US during your stay?
Describe your lodging arrangements—that of a hotel or with family. Provide addresses and the reasons for choosing these accommodations to show preparedness.
Will your spouse accompany you to the US?
A straightforward 'yes' or 'no' suffices. However, be ready to explain your response, as it may reflect your ties to your home country.
Why are you travelling to the US at this particular time?
Link your travel timing to specific business events, family occasions, or optimal tourist seasons to justify the timing of your visit. You may also mention any travel insurance you have acquired to demonstrate preparedness.
What is the duration of your stay in the United States?
You should clearly state the intended length of your visit and ensure it aligns with your stated activities and visa type.
What is the purpose of your visit to the United States?
You should respond by saying, ‘I am attending a business conference’, or, ‘I plan on exploring the historical sites and national parks, etc’.
Are you travelling alone or with others?
Make sure to mention your travel companions and their relationship to you.
Who will pay for the trip?
You need to be very clear about whether your trip is sponsored or self-funded, along with supporting documentation.
Document checklist for US B1/B2 visa interview
You must stay prepared while attending the visa interview with the following documents:
- Interview appointment confirmation.
- DS-160 confirmation page along with barcode.
- A recent paragraph and a valid passport.
- Evidence of ties to India, such as family
- Meeting information, conference invites, hotel bookings or travel itinerary.
- Invitation letters (if applicable).
- Monetary documents, such as income tax returns, pay slips and bank statements.
Common mistakes to avoid during US B1/B2 visa interview
During the US B1/B2 visa interview, there are some common blunders that you must avoid:
- Giving overly long or vague responses.
- Withholding information or lying. Remember, immigration maintains extensive details.
- Not aligning your responses with the documents you provide.
- Speaking way too softly or showing nervousness.
- Ignoring the recent visa policy updates that can affect your visa process.
Tips for a successful US B1/B2 visa interview
To make sure the interview for the US B1/B2 visa goes smoothly, these tips can help:
- Prepare a list of concise answers in advance.
- Keep the travel plan realistic and match the supporting documentation.
- Dress formally and make sure to arrive early at the embassy.
- Be sure to communicate honestly, clearly and confidently.
- Be friendly, polite and listen carefully to the officer’s questions.
- Keep the documents neatly arranged and easily accessible.
Reasons to buy travel insurance for the US
Having a travel insurance policy is highly recommended for trips to the US to cover unforeseen medical expenses, lost baggage or trip cancellation. The healthcare costs in the United States are high and insurance will provide you with monetary peace of mind if emergencies take place. Apart from that, make sure to do some research on the travel policies before you opt for one. It should match your needs and budget.
Conclusion
The US B1/B2 visa interview will let you show your genuine reasons for travel and your plan to return to India. Here, honesty and preparation are the main things. When you know the visa purpose, documents needed, common interview questions and the mistakes to avoid during the interview, getting the visa will become much easier.
It’s also important to secure international travel insurance, as it will offer protection for the journey. To uncover more about the travel policy, get customised solutions and advice on it by filling out the form on this page today.
FAQs
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Is it compulsory to pick an interview centre in India?
Applicants must schedule their B1/B2 interviews only in their nation of citizenship or legal residence.
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What if the visa gets rejected?
There is no appeal process available. You can reapply for the visa if your situation changes. Otherwise, you can provide new proof, particularly about the strong ties to India.
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How long is the B1/B2 visa valid, and how can an individual remain in the US?
These visas remain valid for up to 10 years, with every visit letting you stay in the country for up to 6 months, subject to approval during entry.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.