Application Process

Chilean citizens must apply for a B1/B2 visitor visa through the U.S. Embassy in Santiago.1 The process involves several steps:

1. Complete DS-160 Online Form

Fill out the DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application at ceac.state.gov.1 Upload your photo and save the confirmation page with your barcode number. This barcode must match when scheduling your appointment.1

2. Pay the Visa Fee

Pay the US$185 non-refundable application fee through the payment options available in Chile.2 Keep your receipt as you’ll need the payment confirmation number to schedule your interview.

3. Schedule Interview Appointment

Create an account at ais.usvisa-info.com and schedule your interview at the U.S. Embassy in Santiago.3 Appointment availability varies, so check frequently for open slots. New appointments are added regularly as the backlog decreases.1

4. Prepare Documentation

Gather all supporting documents including financial evidence, employment verification, and proof of ties to Chile. Organize documents clearly for the interview.

5. Attend Embassy Interview

Arrive at your scheduled time (no more than 5 minutes early, not more than 15 minutes late).2 Print your appointment confirmation as it will not be emailed. Answer questions clearly and honestly.

6. Receive Decision

Most applicants receive a decision at the end of their interview. If approved, your passport with the visa will be available for pickup or delivery within a few days.

Fees

The visa fee must be paid before scheduling your interview appointment.2 Payment can be made online through the visa appointment system.

What You Need to Prove

At your interview, the consular officer will assess whether you are a genuine visitor who will return to Chile.4 You must demonstrate:

• Strong ties to Chile: Employment, property, family, business, or other compelling reasons to return home
• Sufficient funds: Financial ability to cover all trip expenses without working in the U.S.
• Clear purpose: A legitimate and specific reason for visiting
• Intent to depart: Plans to leave the U.S. before your authorized stay expires

Processing Times

After your embassy interview, processing typically takes 3-4 weeks.1 The timeline may vary based on:

• Additional administrative processing requirements
• Document verification needs
• Security checks
• High application volumes during peak travel seasons

Interview appointment wait times vary throughout the year. Check the embassy website for current availability.3

Interview Waiver (Dropbox)

Some applicants may qualify to renew their visa without an in-person interview.1 To be eligible:

• Your previous U.S. visa must be valid or expired less than 12 months ago
• You must be applying for the same visa category
• You received a full-validity visa previously
• If not a Chilean citizen, you must have permanent residency in Chile

Processing for interview waivers takes approximately 20 calendar days.1

After Your Visa is Approved

Once approved, your visa will be placed in your passport. The visa shows a validity period (how long you can use it to enter) and number of entries allowed.

At the U.S. border, an immigration officer will:

• Verify your documents
• Ask about your travel purpose
• Determine how long you can stay (stamped in your passport)
• Maximum stay is typically up to 6 months

If Your Visa is Refused

If your visa is denied under Section 214(b) (most common refusal), it means the officer was not convinced you would return to Chile.4 You can:

1. Reapply with stronger evidence of ties to Chile
2. Address the concerns raised during your interview
3. Wait for changed circumstances that strengthen your case

A refusal does not permanently bar you from future applications. Many applicants succeed on subsequent attempts with improved documentation.