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Your U.S. Visa Interview at the Kolkata Consulate: A Complete Guide

Preparing for your visa interview can be nerve-wracking. This guide will walk you through the entire process in Kolkata to ensure you are well-prepared and confident.

U.S. Consulate in Kolkata: A Comprehensive Guide for Your Visa Interview Experience.
U.S. Consulate in Kolkata: A Comprehensive Guide for Your Visa Interview Experience.

1. Arrival & Location Address

  • Official Address: U.S. Consulate General, 5/1 Ho Chi Minh Sarani, Kankaria Estates, Park Street area, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071.

Arrival Time: Plan to arrive approximately 15-30 minutes before your scheduled appointment. Do not arrive hours early, as you will not be allowed inside until your designated time slot. 2. Documents Checklist

Make sure you carry all required documents neatly organized in a   transparent folder:

  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay)

  • DS-160 Confirmation Page (with barcode)

  • Visa Appointment Confirmation Page

  • Visa Fee Receipt

  • Recent Passport-size Photos (as per U.S. visa photo specs)

  • Supporting Documents (based on visa type):

    • B1/B2 (Tourist/Business): Bank statements, job letter, invitation letter, travel itinerary.

    • F1 (Student): I-20 form, SEVIS fee receipt, transcripts, financial documents.

    • H1B (Work): I-797 Approval Notice, employer letter, experience certificates.


3. Security at the Consulate

Strict security procedures are in place.

Allowed Items:

  • Passport & required visa documents

  • Small wallet (without metal objects)

  • Necessary medical items (with prescription)

Not Allowed Items:

Mobile phones, laptops, smartwatches Bags, purses, or backpacks Sharp objects, pens, or metal accessories Food, drinks, or sealed envelopes

👉 Tip: Avoid carrying any valuables. Locker facilities are available nearby



4. Aprion Digital Locker (For Storing Personal Belongings)

Walking Distance: Just a short 2–3 minute walk from the U.S. Consulate.


5. Dress Code

While there is no official formal dress code, your appearance matters.

  • Recommended: Dress in neat, clean, and modest "business casual" attire. It shows you take the interview seriously.

  • Avoid: Overly casual clothes like sleeveless tops, shorts, or flip-flops.

6. Inside the Consulate

The process inside is systematic. Follow the instructions from the security and consulate staff.

  1. Queue & Security: You will be called in according to your appointment slot. You will pass through a thorough security check (like at an airport).

  2. Document Verification: You will be directed to a counter where your appointment letter and DS-160 confirmation are checked.

  3. Fingerprint Verification: You will be asked to re-scan your fingerprints to verify them against the ones taken at your Biometrics (VAC) appointment.

  4. Interview Queue: You will be asked to wait in a queue or seating area for your turn to be called to an interview window.

The Interview: A Consular Officer will call you to their window. They will ask for your passport and may ask for other documents. They will ask you questions about the purpose of your trip, your finances, your work/studies, and your ties to India. Answer clearly, confidently, and honestly.

7. Passport Approval & Delivery

  • If your visa is approved, your passport will be retained and delivered via courier to your selected address or pickup location within a few days.

  • You can track your passport and visa status at: www.ustraveldocs.com/in

If denied, you will be informed immediately and given back your passport.


Final Tips & Good Luck!

  • Be Truthful: Answer all questions honestly. Consistency between your answers and your documents is key.

  • Be Confident & Concise: Listen to the question carefully and answer directly. Do not volunteer unsolicited information.

  • Bring All Documents: It's better to have a document and not need it than to need it and not have it.

  • Stay Calm: The interview is usually very short (2-5 minutes). Take a deep breath and be polite.

Good luck with your interview! Stay positive and confident. 🏛️Related Source 1. Youtube

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