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First-Time U.S. Visa Interview in Delhi? Here’s Exactly How to Prepare

Preparing for your U.S. visa interview can feel daunting, but with the right information, you can navigate the process confidently. This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough specifically for the U.S. Consulate in Delhi, ensuring you are fully prepared and avoid common pitfalls.

1. Know the Location

The United States Embassy and Consulate in New Delhi is in a place called Chanakyapuri. This is a safe area where a lot of diplomats live and work. The United States Embassy and Consulate is right, in the middle of this area.

Address:

  • U.S. Embassy, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi – 110021

Timings:

  • Visa interviews usually happen in the morning. They can be anytime from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. This really depends on what time your appointment is scheduled for. The Visa interviews are typically held during this time frame so you should plan to be at your scheduled time, for your Visa interview.

  • Arrive 40–50 minutes before your slot — not earlier, as entry is strictly controlled.

A young woman confidently presents her documents during a U.S. visa interview at the American Consulate in Delhi, with the consular officer attentively reviewing her application.
A young woman confidently presents her documents during a U.S. visa interview at the American Consulate in Delhi, with the consular officer attentively reviewing her application.

2. Organize Your Documents

Before your interview, prepare all necessary documents in a clear, labeled folder for easy access:

Essential Documents:

  • Current and old passports

  • DS-160 confirmation page

  • Visa appointment confirmation letter

  • Visa fee payment receipt (if applicable)

  • Supporting documents (employment, financial, or invitation letters)


3. What to Bring & What Not to Bring

The U.S. Embassy has a very strict security policy. Knowing what is allowed inside will save you a lot of trouble.

What to Bring

  • Your transparent folder with all the documents mentioned above.

  • A small wallet with only necessary cash and cards.

What NOT to Bring

  • ALL ELECTRONICS: Mobile phones, smartwatches, headphones, laptops, cameras, or any electronic device.

  • BAGS: Backpacks, handbags, briefcases, or luggage.

  • Food and Liquids.

  • Sharp objects, lighters, or any flammable items.


4. Avoid Unauthorised Vendors & Scams

Outside the U.S. Embassy area, some individuals or auto drivers may offer to “keep your items” or “help with your forms.”

  • Do not hand over your belongings to strangers.

  • Avoid street lockers or unauthorized storage places.

  • Use only official and verified locker facilities for your safety.


5. Safe Locker Facility – Aprion Digital Locker

If you’re visiting the U.S. Embassy Delhi, remember:

  • The area is high-security and has no shops nearby.

  • Aprion Digital Locker provides a secure storage solution located just 3 km away from the Consulate.

Features of Aprion Locker:

  • Face Detection Access

  • Online & Offline Booking

On the Day of the Interview:

  • Deposit Belongings: Go to the Aprion locker facility, deposit your phone, bag, and other prohibited items.

  • Travel to Consulate: Book a cab from the locker facility to the embassy. Keep only your document folder.

  • Security Check: Present your appointment letter and passport at the gate. You will go through a strict security screening.

  • Inside the Consulate: Follow the instructions. You will first submit your documents for verification, then provide your fingerprints, and finally proceed to the visa interview.


7. On the Day of the Interview

  • Arrive on time (15–20 minutes before).

  • Greet the staff politely and follow security instructions.

  • At the interview window, stay calm and answer clearly.

  • Keep your answers short, honest, and confident.

  • If you don’t understand a question, ask the officer politely to repeat it


8. After the Interview

  • When they say yes they will bring your passport and your visa to the place you chose to pick them up. They will deliver your passport and your visa to that location.

  • When the officer asks for documents you should do what they tell you to do. The officer will give you instructions. You need to follow them. If the officer needs documents they will let you know what to do with the documents they need.

  • Track your application status on the U.S. Visa Application website.


Good Luck for Your Interview!


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