Application Process

All applications require completing the DS-160 form online and attending an in-person interview at the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo.1 The process involves several steps:

1. Complete the DS-160 Online Form

Fill out the DS-160 visa application form at ceac.state.gov.2 Upload a digital photo meeting US visa requirements. Print the confirmation page with the barcode, which you will need for your interview.1

2. Pay the Visa Fee

Pay the $185 USD visa application fee (MRV fee).2 This fee is non-refundable regardless of the visa decision. Keep your receipt number as you will need it to schedule your interview.

3. Schedule Your Interview

Create an account on the visa appointment website and schedule your interview at the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo.1 Current wait times for B1/B2 visa appointments can exceed 200 days, so plan well in advance.

4. Attend the Interview

Arrive at the Embassy at your scheduled time with all required documents.1 The consular officer will ask questions about your travel plans, ties to the Dominican Republic, and purpose of visit. Be honest and concise.

5. Wait for Processing

If approved, your passport with the visa will be available for pickup within 5-10 business days after your interview.2 If additional administrative processing is required, it may take longer.

Fees

The visa fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied or you decide not to attend your interview.2 Additional fees may apply for visa issuance for certain nationalities (reciprocity fees).

What You Need to Prove

The consular officer must determine that you qualify for a visitor visa under US immigration law.2 You must demonstrate:

• Temporary visit intent: You plan to visit for a specific, temporary purpose and will depart after your visit2
• Strong ties to home country: You have economic, family, and social ties to the Dominican Republic that will compel you to return2
• Sufficient funds: You can financially support yourself during your stay without working2
• No immigrant intent: You do not intend to immigrate to the United States2

Processing Times

Once your interview is completed and your visa is approved, processing typically takes 5-10 business days.2 However, the main delay is scheduling the interview itself.

Current interview wait times in Santo Domingo:1

• B1/B2 Visitor Visa: 200+ days
• Student/Exchange Visitor (F, M, J): 10 days
• Petition-Based Work Visas (H, L, O, P, Q): 2 days

If you qualify for the Interview Waiver Program (dropbox), wait times are significantly shorter, typically just a few days.1

After Your Visa is Approved

Once approved, your visa will be placed in your passport. The visa shows the validity period during which you can travel to the US. Note that the visa validity and permitted stay are different:

• Visa validity: The dates you can use the visa to travel to the US
• Permitted stay: Determined by the CBP officer at entry, typically up to 6 months

At the US border, be prepared to show:

• Valid passport with visa
• Evidence of your travel plans
• Proof of funds
• Return ticket or onward travel plans

If Your Visa is Refused

Most refusals are under Section 214(b), meaning the officer was not convinced you will return to the Dominican Republic.2 If refused:

1. Review the refusal letter for specific reasons
2. Gather stronger evidence of ties to your home country
3. Reapply when circumstances change or you have better documentation
4. Consider what changed since your last refusal that would lead to a different outcome

There is no formal appeal process for 214(b) refusals, but you can reapply at any time with a new application and fee.