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Basic Concept of the US Visa Application Process (From India)


A professional setting illustrating the US visa application process from India, featuring an individual working on their application amidst a well-organized office space filled with plants, documents, and a city view in the background.
A professional setting illustrating the US visa application process from India, featuring an individual working on their application amidst a well-organized office space filled with plants, documents, and a city view in the background.

1. Choose Your Visa Type

Decide which visa you need — Tourist (B1/B2), Student (F1), Work Visa, etc.Each visa has different requirements. 2. Pay Visa Fee & Create Your Profile

Go to the U.S. Visa Official Website (ustraveldocs.com).Create your profile and pay the visa application fee.


3 . Fill the DS-160 Form (Online Application)

  • Complete the Online Non-immigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160) on the U.S. Department of State website. This form gathers all your personal, travel, and background information. You will also upload a digital photo.

  • Once submitted, you must print the confirmation page with the barcode.


4. Pay Visa Fee & Create Profile

  • Register an account on the official U.S. Visa Scheduling website (or the relevant Global Support Services website for India).

  • Pay the non-refundable Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee (also known as the visa application fee).


5. Schedule Two Appointments

After fee payment, log in to your profile and schedule:

  • VAC Appointment (Biometrics: photo + fingerprints)

  • U.S. Embassy/Consulate Appointment (Interview day)

You can select the city: Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata.

6. Interview Day

  • Arrive 20–30 minutes early

  • Security check is strict

  • Keep documents organized

  • Answer clearly and confidently

7. Security Rules – Allowed & Not Allowed

U.S. consulates have strict security. Do not bring prohibited items.

  • NOT ALLOWED: Mobile phones, laptops, tablets, large bags, backpacks, food/drinks, sharp objects, sealed envelopes, or any electronic device.

  • ALLOWED: A clear plastic folder containing your visa application documents. A small purse/wallet..

8. Use Aprion Digital Locker – Safe & Smart Storage


Since you cannot take prohibited items inside, using a reliable locker service like Aprion is a smart way to secure your belongings without stress.

Key Features:

  • Face Detection Access: Touch-free, high-security entry.

  • Smart Digital Lock System: Easy, modern, and reliable.

  • Online & Offline Booking: Reserve in advance for guaranteed peace of mind.

Location-Specific Tips:

  • Chennai: Within walking distance from the U.S. Consulate. Clean, air-conditioned waiting area available.

  • Delhi: The Aprion Digital Locker facility is located about 3 km from the U.S. Embassy. First, visit the locker center to safely deposit your personal items, then book an online cab ride to the Embassy. The U.S. Consulate area is a high-security zone — no shops or storage options are available inside or nearby.

  • Kolkata: Located nearby US Consulate , with fast digital check-in/out and comfortable facilities.

9. HOW MANY TIMES YOU HAVE TO GO TO US VISA OFFICE?

You have to go in person a total of TWO times. However, only ONE of these is at the actual U.S. Embassy/Consulate ("Visa Office").

  1. First Visit: Visa Application Center (VAC/OFC).

    • This is NOT the U.S. Embassy. It's a separate facilitation center.

    • You go for your biometrics appointment. This visit is usually quick (15-30 mins). No interview happens here.

  2. Second Visit: U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

    • This IS the "U.S. Visa Office."

    • You go for your consular interview appointment. This is the main event where you speak with an officer for a few minutes.


10. Visa Processing

After your interview:

  • Passport gets approved and sent for stamping OR

  • They may ask for additional documents.




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