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Ready for Your U.S. Visa Interview? Don’t Miss This Checklist

Follow this checklist to ensure you are fully prepared and confident for your interview day.

1. Know Your Visa Category

Understand your visa type clearly (B1/B2, F1, H1B, L1, O1, etc.).

Be prepared to explain the purpose of your travel in simple, confident language.

2. Keep All Required Documents Ready

Prepare your mandatory and supporting documents:

  • Passport (valid)

  • DS-160 confirmation page

  • Appointment confirmation

  • Visa-specific supporting papers

  • Employment/financial documents (if applicable)

  • Keep them in a small transparent folder.

U.S. visa applicant handing over their passport at an embassy desk, overseen by a smiling officer.
U.S. visa applicant handing over their passport at an embassy desk, overseen by a smiling officer.

3. One Day Before - Final Checks

  • Review Your Application: Go through your DS-160 form. All the other papers you need again. This way you will remember everything, about your application. You should look at your DS-160 form. The supporting documents so you know what you wrote.

  • Plan Your Outfit: Choose professional and comfortable attire.

  • Make sure your phone has power. You will need your phone for talking to people and finding your way on that day. Charge your phone so it does not run out of power. Your phone is important for communication and navigation, on the day.

  • Get a Good Night's Sleep: Rest well to be alert and composed.


4. Arrive Early

Plan to arrive at the embassy/consulate 30-45 minutes before your scheduled interview time to account for security checks and any unexpected delays.


5. Allowed & Not Allowed Items

Allowed:Documents, wallet, transparent folder, and essential papers.

Not Allowed:Mobile phones, smartwatches, bags, electronic devices, or metal items.

 Only bring what’s necessary for your appointment.


6. Plan Your Storage: Beware of Locker Scams

  • The Consulate does not let you take devices, big bags or even large wallets inside the Consulate. They just do not allow these things, inside the Consulate.

  • Be cautious of unauthorized individuals offering storage services near the Consulate. These "locker scams" can lead to theft or high-pressure fees.


7. Aprion Digital Locker - Your Safe Storage Solution

Key Features:

  • Face Detection Access: Modern, touch-free, and highly secure entry.

  • Smart Digital Lock System: No physical keys or tokens to lose; full digital control.

  • Online & Offline Booking: Book online via their app/website to guarantee a locker and avoid waiting, or walk in anytime.

Location-Specific Locker Strategy:

  • Chennai: The facility is within walking distance of the U.S. Consulate. It includes a clean, air-conditioned waiting area to compose yourself before your interview.

  • Delhi: The locker is about 3 km from the U.S. Embassy. Strategy: Go to the locker location first, deposit your items, and then take a cab/auto to the Embassy. There are no storage options in the high-security zone around the Embassy.

  • Kolkata: Located very conveniently near the Consulate. They offer fast digital check-in/out and comfortable facilities for a quick and easy process.


8. Stay Honest & Confident During the Interview

  • Be honest when you answer. Make sure what you say is true and matches what you wrote in your application. Answer Truthfully so that the information is correct.

  • You should feel good about yourself because you have done your homework. When you talk about what you want to do make sure you speak in a voice and show that you really believe in your plans. Be confident like you know what you are doing because you are well-prepared. Talk about your intentions in a way that shows you are sure, about what you want to achieve.

  • Keep it Concise: Answer the question asked without over-explaining.

  • Stay Calm: Be polite to everyone, from security to the consular officer. Take a breath if you need to.


Good Luck For Your Interview! 


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