United States Tourist Visa
B1/B2 Visitor Visa · For Argentina citizens
Planning a trip to the United States as an Argentine citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the B1/B2 visitor visa application: required documents, current fee of $185, interview process, and strategies to improve your chances. With proper preparation, you can navigate the application successfully.
US Tourist Visa for Argentine Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Argentina citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form on the U.S. Department of State website
Your Argentine passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the United States
Recent photograph meeting U.S. visa photo requirements
Schedule an interview at the U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires
Bank statements and other documents showing sufficient funds to cover your trip
Documentation proving your employment status and income in Argentina
Evidence demonstrating your intention to return to Argentina after your visit
Recommended (Optional)
Details of your planned activities and accommodation in the United States
Application Process
The U.S. B1/B2 visa application requires completing an online form and attending an in-person interview at the U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires.1 Here is the step-by-step process:
1. Complete the DS-160 Online Application
Fill out the DS-160 form on the U.S. Department of State website.1 You will need to provide personal information, travel history, employment details, and upload a digital photograph. Save your confirmation page with the barcode.
2. Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the $185 Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee through the designated payment methods.2 Keep your receipt as you will need it to schedule your interview. The fee is non-refundable.
3. Schedule Your Interview
Create an account on the visa appointment system and schedule your interview at the U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires.4 Current wait times for visitor visa appointments are approximately 49 days. Check the calendar regularly for earlier openings.
4. Gather Supporting Documents
Prepare all required documents including your passport, DS-160 confirmation, interview appointment letter, photograph, and supporting evidence of ties to Argentina and financial stability.1
5. Attend the Interview
Arrive at the Embassy at your scheduled time with all documents. The consular officer will ask about your travel purpose, ties to home, and financial situation.2 Answer honestly and concisely.
6. Wait for Processing
After your interview, processing typically takes 3-4 weeks.1 You will be notified when your passport with the visa is ready for collection, or you can opt for courier delivery.
Fees
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| B1/B2 Visa Application (MRV Fee) | US$185 |
| Visa Issuance Fee | US$0 (reciprocal for Argentina) |
The application fee is non-refundable and non-transferable, even if your visa is denied.2 Payment must be made before scheduling your interview appointment.
What You Need to Prove
At your interview, the consular officer will evaluate whether you qualify for a visitor visa. You must demonstrate:3
- Genuine temporary visit: Clear purpose for your trip and intention to return to Argentina
- Strong ties to home: Employment, property, family, or other obligations requiring your return
- Sufficient funds: Financial ability to cover all trip expenses without working in the U.S.
- No immigrant intent: You do not plan to abandon your residence in Argentina
Processing Times
| Stage | Duration |
|---|---|
| Interview Wait Time | ~49 days |
| Post-Interview Processing | 3-4 weeks |
| Total (Estimate) | 2-3 months |
Processing times can vary based on individual circumstances.1 Some applications may require additional administrative processing, which can extend the timeline. Apply well in advance of your planned travel dates.
Expedited appointments may be available for documented emergencies such as medical treatment, funerals, or urgent business matters.2
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, your visa will be placed in your passport. For Argentine citizens, the B1/B2 visa is typically valid for 10 years with multiple entries.3
At the U.S. port of entry, the immigration officer will:
- Review your documents and ask about your travel purpose
- Determine your authorized length of stay (up to 6 months)
- Issue you an I-94 form (electronic record of entry)
Keep your I-94 record and do not overstay your authorized period.
If Your Visa is Refused
If your visa is refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reason under Section 214(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act.3 Common reasons include insufficient ties to home country or inadequate financial evidence.
You can:
- Reapply with improved documentation addressing the specific concerns
- Wait for changed circumstances before reapplying
- Seek guidance from an immigration attorney for complex cases
There is no formal appeal process for nonimmigrant visa refusals. Each new application is evaluated on its own merits.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Ties to Home Country
Unable to demonstrate strong reasons to return to Argentina after the visit, such as stable employment, property ownership, or family obligations.
How to avoid: Bring evidence of employment, property ownership, family dependents, and other commitments that require your presence in Argentina.
Insufficient Financial Evidence
Bank statements do not show enough funds or demonstrate suspicious patterns. Unable to prove ability to support yourself during the trip.
How to avoid: Show 3-6 months of statements with consistent balance. Include savings, investments, and property. Avoid large last-minute deposits.
Unconvincing Travel Purpose
The stated purpose of visit seems implausible, or the interview answers were inconsistent with the application.
How to avoid: Be clear and consistent about your travel purpose. Practice your interview answers. Have a realistic, detailed itinerary.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of visa refusals, overstays, or violations in the U.S. or other countries raises concerns about compliance.
How to avoid: Be honest about previous issues. Provide evidence of changed circumstances and explain how your situation has improved.
Incomplete Documentation
Missing documents or inconsistent information across the application.
How to avoid: Double-check all documents are complete. Ensure information matches across all forms and supporting documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in the US on a B1/B2 visa?
The B1/B2 visa allows stays of up to 6 months per visit. The exact duration is determined by the immigration officer at the port of entry. Check your I-94 form for your authorized stay period.
How long is the US B1/B2 visa valid?
For Argentine citizens, the B1/B2 visa is typically issued for 10 years with multiple entries. However, visa validity does not determine how long you can stay per visit.
How long does US visa processing take from Argentina?
After your interview, processing typically takes 3-4 weeks. However, the current wait time to get an interview appointment in Buenos Aires is approximately 49 days. Plan well ahead of your travel dates.
What is the US tourist visa fee for Argentines in 2025?
The Machine Readable Visa (MRV) application fee is $185 for the B1/B2 visa. This fee is non-refundable, even if your visa is denied.
Can I renew my US visa without an interview?
Yes, if your previous 10-year B1/B2 visa expired within the last 48 months, you may be eligible for interview waiver renewal. Check the embassy website for current eligibility requirements.
What happens during the visa interview?
The consular officer will ask about your travel purpose, ties to Argentina, financial situation, and previous travel. Be honest, confident, and concise in your answers. Bring all supporting documents.
Can I work on a US tourist visa?
No, the B1/B2 visa does not permit any paid employment in the United States. Business activities like meetings and conferences (B1) are allowed, but not working for a U.S. employer.
What if my US visa is refused?
You will receive a refusal letter explaining the reason. You can reapply with improved documentation addressing the issues. There is no formal appeal process for nonimmigrant visa denials.