Visitor Visas: A Complete Guide for the Interview

The Visitor Visa (often B-1 for Business or B-2 for Tourism/Pleasure in the U.S.) is a Non-Immigrant visa, meaning the applicant must prove their intention to return home. The interview focuses almost entirely on establishing strong ties to your home country and a clear, temporary purpose for the trip.

1. What Is a Visitor Visa?

A visitor visa (often called a tourist visa or B-2 visa in the U.S.) is a non-immigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to enter a country temporarily for:

• Tourism, vacation, or sightseeing

• Visiting family or friends

• Medical treatment

• Attending social events (weddings, conferences)

• Short-term recreational courses

Essential tips for a successful visitor visa interview, featuring a close-up of an Indian passport with a visitor visa inside, ready for international travel preparations.

2. Who Can Apply?

Anyone seeking temporary entry for the purposes listed above can apply, provided they meet the following:

• Temporary Intent: Prove the visit is for a limited duration.

• Financial Means: Demonstrate sufficient funds to cover all expenses during the stay.

• Strong Ties: Provide convincing evidence of social, economic, or family ties that will compel them to return to their home country (e.g., job, property, immediate family).

• Non-Immigrant Intent: Show a clear intent to depart the host country at the end of the trip.

3. Key Documents for the Interview

Bring originals + one photocopy set:

• Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)

• Visa application confirmation (e.g., DS-160 for U.S.)

• Appointment confirmation letter

• Recent passport-size photographs

• Proof of finances (bank statements, salary slips, tax returns)

• Proof of employment (employment letter, business registration)

• Ties to home country (property deeds, family photos, marriage certificate)

• Travel itinerary (flight bookings, hotel reservations)

• Invitation letter (if visiting friends/family)

• Travel/health insurance (if required)

4. Interview Day: What to Expect

1. Security check at embassy/consulate entrance.

2. Document submission to pre-screen counter.

3. Biometrics collection (fingerprints, photo).

4. Visa interview with a consular officer (typically 3–5 minutes).

5. Decision announced on the spot (approved, denied, or administrative processing).

5. Common Interview Questions

• Why are you traveling to the U.S.?

• How long will you stay?

• Who will pay for your trip?

• Where do you work or study?

• Have you traveled abroad before?

• Do you have relatives in the U.S.?
  

6. How to Answer Confidently

• Give clear and honest answers

• Keep responses short and direct

• Maintain eye contact and calm body language

• Do not provide unnecessary information

• Answer only what is asked

7. Important Interview Tips

• Dress neatly and professionally.

• Maintain eye contact and speak clearly.

• Bring all documents in an organized folder.

• Do not argue or complain.

• Answer only what is asked – avoid over-explaining.

• Be positive and confident.

8 Interview Day – Arrive Early & Security Rules

• Arrive at least 30 minutes early

• Mobile phones, bags, electronics, and sealed items are not allowed

• Only documents and essential items are permitted inside

• Follow instructions given by security staff

Beware of Locker Scams

• Avoid street vendors offering unofficial locker services near the embassy

• These services may be unsafe or overpriced

• Always choose verified and secure storage options

9. Aprion Digital Locker – Safe Storage 

Keep your belongings secure before entering the Embassy or Consulate.

Face Detection Access – touch-free and secure

Digital Lock System – smart and easy to use

Online & Offline Booking available

📍 Chennai

• Walkable distance to the U.S. Consulate, Chennai

• Clean, air-conditioned facility

📍 Delhi

• The U.S. Embassy is in a high-security zone with no shops nearby.

• Our Aprion Locker Facility is just 3 km away.

• Safely deposit your belongings, then take a short cab ride to the Embassy.

📍 Kolkata

• Walkable distance to the U.S. Consulate, Kolkata

• Fast check-in and check-out locker service

• Digital and fully secure environment

10 Pro Tips

• Be prepared to explain why you will return to your home country

• Confidence matters more than documents

• Do not memorize answers—be natural

• Even a simple, honest answer can lead to approval