United States Tourist Visa
B1/B2 Visitor Visa · For Bangladesh citizens
Planning a trip to the United States as a Bangladeshi citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the B1/B2 visitor visa: required documents, current fees of $185, interview wait times of 7-8 months in Dhaka, and strategies to improve your approval chances. With a 42% approval rate, strong preparation is critical.
US Tourist Visa for Bangladeshi Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Bangladesh citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160)
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay
Recent photograph meeting US visa photo requirements
Proof that you can financially support your trip
Documentation proving your employment status
Evidence demonstrating your intention to return to Bangladesh
In-person interview at the US Embassy in Dhaka
Recommended (Optional)
Details of your planned trip to the United States
Application Process
The US B1/B2 visa requires completing an online application and attending an in-person interview at the US Embassy in Dhaka.1 The process involves these steps:
1. Complete DS-160 Form
Fill out the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160) at ceac.state.gov.2 Upload your photo and print the confirmation page with the barcode. Keep your Application ID safe.
2. Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the US$185 application fee (MRV fee) through the designated payment channels in Bangladesh.3 Keep the receipt as you will need the payment confirmation number.
3. Schedule Interview Appointment
Create an account at ustraveldocs.com and schedule your visa interview at the US Embassy in Dhaka.1 Current wait times are approximately 7-8 months, so plan well in advance.4
4. Gather Documents
Prepare all required documents including passport, DS-160 confirmation, fee receipt, photo, financial evidence, employment proof, and evidence of ties to Bangladesh.
5. Attend Interview
Arrive at the US Embassy 15 minutes before your appointment.1 You will go through security, submit biometrics, and have your interview with a consular officer. Decisions are typically given the same day.
6. Receive Your Passport
If approved, your passport with the visa will be delivered via courier or available for pickup at the designated location. Processing typically takes 3-5 business days after approval.
Fees
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee (MRV) | US$185 | Non-refundable |
| Visa Issuance Fee | US$0 | Reciprocity fee for Bangladesh |
| Courier Delivery | Varies | For passport return |
Note: The application fee is set to increase significantly to US$435 from October 2025. If you’re planning to apply, consider doing so before the fee increase takes effect.
What You Need to Prove
Under US immigration law (Section 214b), the consular officer must assume you intend to immigrate unless you prove otherwise.2 You must demonstrate:
- Strong ties to Bangladesh that will compel you to return after your visit
- Sufficient funds to cover your entire trip without working in the US
- Legitimate purpose for visiting the United States
- Intent to depart before your authorized stay expires
The burden of proof is on you. This is why preparation and documentation are critical.
Processing Times
The overall timeline from application to visa receipt is typically 7-9 months due to the lengthy interview wait times in Dhaka.4
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| DS-160 completion | 1-2 hours |
| Interview wait time | 228 days (~7-8 months) |
| Interview decision | Same day |
| Passport processing | 3-5 business days |
If you qualify for interview waiver (dropbox), processing takes only about 1 day.4
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, your B1/B2 visa may be valid for up to 10 years with multiple entries. However, the visa validity does not determine how long you can stay.
At the US port of entry:
- A CBP officer will determine your admission and length of stay
- Most visitors receive 6 months on their I-94 record
- You may be asked about your travel plans and return ticket
- Keep your I-94 record as proof of legal entry
If Your Visa is Refused
Most refusals from Bangladesh are under Section 214(b), meaning the officer was not convinced of your ties to Bangladesh.1 If refused:
- Review the refusal reason given by the officer
- Strengthen your application by addressing the specific concerns
- Gather additional evidence of ties to Bangladesh
- Reapply when ready with improved documentation
There is no formal appeal process for 214(b) refusals. You can reapply at any time, but should only do so if your circumstances have changed or you have new evidence to present.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Weak Ties to Home Country (214b)
The most common refusal reason. Consular officers are not convinced you will return to Bangladesh after your visit due to insufficient family, employment, or financial ties.
How to avoid: Demonstrate strong ties: stable employment, property ownership, family dependents, business interests. Be prepared to clearly explain why you will return.
Insufficient Financial Evidence
Unable to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover the trip without working illegally in the US, or income source is unclear.
How to avoid: Show 6+ months of bank statements with consistent income. Avoid last-minute large deposits. Have clear documentation of income source.
Unclear Purpose of Visit
The consular officer finds the travel purpose vague or implausible given your profile and circumstances.
How to avoid: Have a clear, realistic travel plan. Be specific about what you want to see and do. Your itinerary should match your budget and available time.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of visa refusals, overstays, or other immigration violations in the US or elsewhere.
How to avoid: Be honest about previous issues. Explain what has changed and provide evidence of improved circumstances.
Inconsistent or Incomplete Information
Information in DS-160 does not match documents or interview answers, or required information is missing.
How to avoid: Review your DS-160 thoroughly. Ensure all information matches your documents. Practice explaining your situation clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in the US on a B1/B2 visa?
The visa itself may be valid for up to 10 years, but your length of stay is determined by the Customs and Border Protection officer when you enter. Most visitors are admitted for up to 6 months. This is shown on your I-94 arrival record.
How long is the wait for a US visa interview in Dhaka?
Current wait times for B1/B2 visitor visa interviews at the US Embassy in Dhaka are approximately 228 days (7-8 months). Plan your application well in advance of your intended travel date.
What is the US tourist visa fee for Bangladeshi citizens?
The application fee (MRV fee) is US$185, which is non-refundable regardless of whether your visa is approved or denied. Note: The fee is set to increase to $435 from October 2025.
What questions will they ask at the US visa interview?
Common questions include: Why do you want to visit the US? What do you do for work? How will you fund your trip? Do you have family in the US? When will you return to Bangladesh? Answer honestly and briefly.
Can I reapply if my US visa is refused?
Yes, you can reapply at any time. However, you should address the reasons for refusal before reapplying. If refused under Section 214(b), you need to show changed circumstances or provide additional evidence of ties to Bangladesh.
Do I need a sponsor for a US tourist visa?
No, a sponsor is not required. You need to demonstrate that you can fund your own trip. However, if someone in the US is helping with expenses, you can include their invitation letter and financial documents as supporting evidence.
What is the approval rate for US visas from Bangladesh?
The approval rate for US visitor visas from Bangladesh is approximately 42%. The main reasons for refusal are inability to demonstrate strong ties to Bangladesh and insufficient financial evidence.
Can I get interview waiver for US visa renewal?
If you're renewing a B1/B2 visa that was issued with full validity (10 years) and expired within the last 12 months, you may qualify for an interview waiver. The dropbox processing time is just 1 day.