If you are planning to visit the US as a tourist, you need to apply for a B2 visa. It is a non-immigrant visa and does not allow you to involve yourself in any business activities or long-term educational programs in America.
Want to know more about what is a B2 visa? Let’s explore it in more detail.
What is a B2 Visa?
A B2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows non-citizens to travel to the United States for tourism. It is a temporary visitor visa and is generally valid for up to 10 years from the date of its issuance. You can stay for up to 180 days as a tourist in the US with this visa. However, you cannot engage in business or long-term educational programmes.
To be eligible for a B2 visa, you need to prove your intent to return to your home country. You will also have to prove your financial capabilities to cover your expenses during your stay in the US. You are also bound to explain your ties with your home country, emphasising how these will make you come back to your home country after your trip period ends.
B2 Visa Requirements: Eligibility Criteria
You must meet certain eligibility criteria to travel to the US on a B2 visa. You need to prove that:
- Your trip is temporary and meant only for tourism purposes.
- You possess sufficient financial resources to support your expenses while staying in the US.
- You must show strong ties to your home country, such as family, job, or property. This is important to prove that you will return to your home country once your visit ends.
Common B2 visa requirements or reasons for travelling on a B2 visa include:
- Tourism: You can use a B2 visa for sightseeing, exploring cities, or enjoying US culture.
- Visiting Family or Friends: Many people use this visa to visit loved ones who live in the US.
- Medical Treatment: Those needing medical procedures available in the US can apply for a B2 visa.
- Social Events: Attending concerts, festivals, or other social gatherings is allowed on a B2 visa.
- Participation in Events or Contests: You can participate in non-professional events like amateur contests.
- Short Courses of Study: You may take courses that are less than 18 hours per week on a B2 visa.
B2 Visa Benefits
The B2 visa is highly beneficial for individuals visiting the US:
- Using the B2 visa, you can visit the US for tourism-related activities or vacations. It also allows you to spend time with your friends or family living in America.
- A B2 visa helps you get necessary medical care in the US.
- You can get a B2 visa to attend social events, shows, sports events, and other activities organised by groups or businesses.
- You can come to the US multiple times in 10 years, but each stay is limited to six months.
- If you went to the US for a very short tour but want to extend your stay, you can do so, as the visa allows you to stay in the USA for up to six months.
Documents Required for B2 Visa Application
After having understood the concept, requirements, and benefits of the B2 visa in detail, let's learn about the documents required to get one:
- A completed DS-160 form. This is the application form for a US visa.
- A passport that is valid for the entire duration of your intended stay.
- Recent passport-size photos that meet the US visa photo requirements.
- A detailed travel itinerary showing your day-to-day plans.
- Proof that you have enough money to cover your expenses during your stay in the US.
- Visa application fee payment proof.
- A letter from your employer stating your job title, salary, how long you have worked there, and your approved vacation period.
- Any additional documents requested by the US government or consulate.
How to Apply for a B2 Visa?
Here is a step-by-step process to apply for your B2 visa:
- Online Application: Start by completing the online application form, the D-160 form. Fill out the form carefully, ensuring that all information is correct. Also, upload your photo/s.
- Visa Fee: The next step is paying your visa fees. Ensure you print the confirmation receipt.
- Schedule Appointments: The next step involves scheduling two appointments by logging in to the visa page:
- Consulate or Embassy interview appointment.
- The Visa Application Center (VAC) appointment for photo and fingerprint scan.
- VAC Appointment Preparation: The next step involves preparing for your VAC appointment. Make sure to carry:
- Your passport
- DS-160 confirmation page
- Appointment confirmation
- Visa Issuance Fee Payment: After you attend the interview, make the fee payment and await the approval of your visa.
B2 visa cost
So far, we have understood the B2 visa concept in detail, the B2 visa requirements, and the B2 visa benefits. Then, we understood the step-by-step method for applying for a B2 visa.
But what is the cost of a B2 visa?
The cost of a B2 visa application is USD 160. It is non-refundable, so you will have to bear this cost even if your B2 visa application is rejected. This cost also varies depending on your nationality.
Keep in mind that this does not include costs regarding your documentation requirements, etc. Apart from this, there could be some additional charges for visa issuance. Visa fees change frequently, so make sure to check the official website. You can also contact the US embassy or consulate for information regarding the current B2 visa application cost.
Conclusion
In this blog, we understood what is a B2 visa, B2 visa requirements, and the steps involved in applying for a B2 visa. And if you are planning to go to the US as a tourist, make sure that you invest in travel insurance online. It ensures financial security and a tension-free trip.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. 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.