Dreaming of studying in the United States or visiting family and friends across the ocean? You’re not alone. But if you’ve heard horror stories about long wait times, complex paperwork, and tough visa interviews, you might be feeling overwhelmed.
Don’t worry—we’ve got your back.
Whether you’re applying for an F1 visa as a student or a B1/B2 visa for business or tourism, this step-by-step guide is designed for Indian citizens navigating the US visa system. With current wait times exceeding 400 days in some consulates, early planning and attention to detail are essential.
Let’s break it all down, and clearly.
Understanding Your Visa Options: F1 vs B1/B2
Before you dive into paperwork, it’s essential to determine which visa best suits your purpose.
The F1 Student Visa
This is for students heading to the US for full-time academic study. With an F1 visa, you can:
- Enroll in accredited colleges and universities
- Work on campus up to 20 hours per week during the semester
- Stay in the US for the entire duration of your academic program
- Apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduating
This is the most common route for Indian students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral programs.
The B1/B2 Visitor Visa
This dual-purpose visa is for short-term business trips (B1) or tourism and family visits (B2). In most cases, Indian citizens receive a 10-year multiple-entry B1/B2 visa.
Under the B1/B2 visa, you can:
- Attend conferences, meetings, or consultations in the US (B1)
- Visit family, take a holiday, or seek medical treatment (B2)
The key is to prove that your visit is temporary and that you have strong ties to return to India.
Why You Should Start Early?
The US visa for Indian citizens comes with a caveat: delays.
Current appointment wait times can exceed 400 days in Delhi and Mumbai for B1/B2 and around 250 days for F1 visas. Start your application process at least 6–8 months before your planned travel date.
This buffer gives you time for document prep, scheduling appointments, and handling any unexpected delays. If you need help navigating this timeline or fast-tracking your preparation, Galvanize Global Education offers personalized support to help you plan ahead.
The US Visa Application Process: Step-by-Step
Here’s a structured overview of what the process looks like from start to finish:
Step 1: Complete the DS-160 Form
The DS-160 is the online visa application form. To begin:
- Visit https://ceac.state.gov/genniv
- Choose your consular region: Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, or Kolkata
- Fill out all sections accurately—passport info, travel plans, education/work history, and family details
- Upload a recent 600×600 pixel photo (white background, neutral expression, no glasses)
Important: Use the Western naming format (Given Name, Surname) even if your passport does not follow this. Consistency is critical.
Step 2: Pay the MRV Fee
Next, pay the Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee on the CGI Federal portal. The fee (as of now) is:
- ₹13,160 for F1 visa
- ₹13,160 for B1/B2 visa
Payment methods include:
- NEFT
- Debit/Credit card
- Cash at designated Axis Bank branches
Make sure to keep the CGI reference number and receipt—it’s required for booking your appointments.
Step 3: Book Two Appointments
You need to attend two appointments:
- VAC (Visa Application Center) – For biometrics (photo + fingerprinting)
- Consular Interview – Face-to-face interview with a US visa officer
VAC centers are located in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Kochi, Bengaluru, and more.
Keep in mind: Interview wait times in India are among the highest globally. Book early.
Step 4: Gather Your Documents
Have everything ready and organized before your appointments. Here’s what you’ll need:
For all visa types:
- Valid passport (at least 6 months beyond your stay)
- DS-160 confirmation page
- Appointment confirmation letters
- One 50mm x 50mm photo
- Visa fee payment receipt
- Copies of prior US visas (if applicable)
For an F1 student visa:
- Form I-20 from your US institution
- SEVIS fee receipt (I-901)
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Standardized test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, GRE, GMAT, etc.)
- Bank statements (6 months), loan approval letters, scholarships (if applicable)
- Proof of financial support from parents/sponsors
For B1/B2 visitor visa:
- Detailed travel itinerary
- Invitation letters (if applicable)
- Employment verification or business documents
- Income tax returns, bank statements, and proof of property or ties in India
Pro tip: Organize your documents in clearly labeled folders. This makes a big impression at your interview. If you need help putting together a strong and convincing visa application file, the team at Galvanize Global Education can walk you through each step.
Step 5: Attend the VAC Appointment
This is typically quick and simple.
- Arrive 15 minutes early
- Bring your passport and appointment letter
- Fingerprints and a digital photo will be take
- Collect your VAC receipt—bring it to your interview
VAC centers are more widely available than consulates, so this step is usually convenient even for applicants from Tier-2 cities.
Step 6: Prepare for the Visa Interview
This is where many applicants feel nervous, but preparation is key. Keep your answers clear, honest, and concise.
For F1 applicants, be ready to answer:
- Why did you choose this university or course?
- Who is funding your education?
- What are your career plans after graduation?
For B1/B2 applicants, prepare for:
- Purpose and duration of your visit
- Where you’ll stay and your itinerary
- What ties ensure you’ll return to India (job, property, family)
Interview tips:
- Dress smartly (but comfortably)
- Speak confidently in English
- Avoid volunteering too much information
- Bring only the required documents—security is tight
Practicing with mock interviews can make all the difference. Galvanize Global Education offers interview prep sessions specifically designed for Indian students and travelers, so you feel ready and confident when facing the visa officer.
Step 7: After the Interview
What happens next depends on the outcome of your interview:
- Approved: Your passport with visa is delivered within 3–5 business days
- 221g/Administrative Processing: This may take 2–12 weeks if more information is needed
- Denied: You’ll get a letter with the reason for refusal under US immigration law
You can track your passport status through the CGI Federal portal.
Special Tips for Indian Student Visa Applicants
Build a Solid Financial Case
Visa officers often scrutinize how you’ll pay for your education. To improve your chances:
- Show consistent bank balances for at least 6 months
- Include proof of family income (salary slips, IT returns)
- Document all support sources: FDs, loans, scholarships
- Avoid sudden large deposits before your application
Demonstrate Academic Fit
Clearly explain how your chosen US program builds on your Indian academic background and supports your career path.
Highlight:
- Relevant academic achievements
- Your standardized test scores
- Research or career goals aligned with your US degree
If you need help explaining your academic or financial story in a compelling and clear way, Galvanize Global Education provides expert coaching and strategy for both your written application and interview.
What B1/B2 Applicants from India Should Know
Proving Strong Ties to India
This is the number one reason for B1/B2 rejections. Prove you have reasons to return:
- Property ownership
- Family responsibilities
- Long-term employment with approved leave
- Business ownership or professional commitments
Previous Travel History Helps
If you’ve traveled internationally and complied with visa terms, your application looks stronger.
Show:
- Past visas (especially Schengen, UK, Canada)
- Previous visits to the US and timely returns
- Proof of travel patterns that indicate temporary travel
What If Your Visa Is Denied?
Don’t lose hope. Many reapply successfully after addressing the reason for refusal.
Here’s what to do:
- Read the refusal letter carefully
- Fix gaps in financial, academic, or travel evidence
- Don’t rush into reapplying—wait at least 3–6 months unless there’s a major change
- Consider professional help for a better second attempt
Galvanize Global Education has helped many applicants bounce back after a rejection, with targeted support and revised applications that better align with visa requirements.
Final Thoughts: Your US Dream Is Possible
The US visa process for Indian citizens is detailed, but not impossible.
You can do this. Just remember:
- Start early—especially now, with long wait times
- Get your documentation right
- Prepare well for the interview
- And most importantly, be honest
Good luck on your travel to the US!
