United States Tourist Visa
B1/B2 Visitor Visa · For Ukraine citizens
Planning a trip to the United States as a Ukrainian citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the B1/B2 visitor visa application: required documents, current fees of $185, interview preparation, and strategies to improve your chances. Understanding the process thoroughly is key to a successful application.
US Tourist Visa for Ukrainian Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Ukraine citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the United States
Complete the DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application form online
Recent passport-style photograph meeting US visa requirements
Documentation proving you can financially support your trip
Documentation proving your employment status
Details of your planned trip to the United States
Evidence demonstrating strong reasons to return to Ukraine
In-person interview at the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv
Application Process
The B1/B2 visa application requires completing an online form, paying the fee, and attending an in-person interview at the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv.1
1. Complete DS-160 Online Application
Fill out the DS-160 form at ceac.state.gov. You will need to provide personal information, travel plans, employment history, and upload a passport photo. Save your confirmation page with the barcode.3
2. Pay the Application Fee
The MRV fee of $185 is payable in cash (UAH or USD) at the time of your interview.1 Keep your payment receipt.
3. Schedule Your Interview
Book an interview appointment through the U.S. Embassy website. Wait times vary based on demand and appointment availability.1
4. Attend Your Interview
Bring your passport, DS-160 confirmation, photo, and all supporting documents. Answer questions honestly and concisely. The officer will inform you of the decision at the end of the interview.1
5. Receive Your Visa
If approved, your passport with visa will be available for pickup or delivery. Processing typically takes a few days after approval.
Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| B1/B2 Visa Application (MRV) | $185 | Payable in cash at interview |
| Visa Issuance Fee | Varies | Reciprocity fee if applicable |
The application fee is non-refundable, even if the visa is denied.2 Payment must be made in cash (UAH or USD) at the embassy.
What You Need to Prove
Under US immigration law (INA 214b), all B1/B2 applicants are presumed to be intending immigrants until they prove otherwise. You must demonstrate:
- Nonimmigrant intent: You plan to visit temporarily and return to Ukraine1
- Strong ties: Employment, property, family, or other compelling reasons to return home1
- Financial ability: Sufficient funds to cover your trip without working in the US1
- Clear purpose: A legitimate reason for visiting the United States1
Processing Times
Interview wait times at the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv vary based on demand and capacity. Due to limited appointment slots, priority is given to:1
- Humanitarian workers
- Applicants with urgent medical needs
- Business travelers with time-sensitive requirements
Check the embassy website for current wait times and appointment availability. Plan well in advance of your intended travel dates.
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.
At the US border (port of entry):
- Present your passport and visa to CBP officer
- Answer questions about your trip
- Receive an I-94 form indicating your allowed stay
- The CBP officer determines your actual length of stay
If Your Visa is Refused
Most refusals are under INA Section 214(b), meaning the officer was not convinced of your ties to Ukraine. If refused:
- Review the refusal reason provided by the officer
- Gather stronger evidence of ties to Ukraine
- Reapply when you have new information or changed circumstances
- Wait if advised: Some refusals recommend waiting before reapplying
There is no appeal process for 214(b) refusals, but you can reapply at any time with a new application and fee.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Ties to Home Country
Unable to demonstrate compelling reasons to return to Ukraine after the visit, such as stable employment, property, or family obligations.
How to avoid: Bring strong evidence of employment, property ownership, family ties, and other reasons you must return to Ukraine.
Inadequate Financial Evidence
Unable to show sufficient funds to cover travel expenses without working illegally in the US.
How to avoid: Provide 3-6 months of bank statements showing stable income and sufficient balance for your planned trip.
Unconvincing Travel Purpose
The stated reason for travel seems implausible or the applicant cannot clearly explain their plans.
How to avoid: Have a clear, specific travel itinerary and be able to articulate exactly what you plan to do in the US.
Previous Immigration Violations
History of overstays or violations in the US or other countries.
How to avoid: Be honest about any previous issues and explain what has changed in your circumstances.
Incomplete Application
Missing or inconsistent information in the DS-160 form or supporting documents.
How to avoid: Complete all sections of the DS-160 accurately and ensure documents match the information provided.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in the US on a B1/B2 visa?
The maximum stay is typically up to 6 months, but the actual duration is determined by the Customs and Border Protection officer at entry. Your allowed stay will be stamped on your I-94 form.
Can I work on a US tourist visa?
No, the B1/B2 visa does not permit any form of employment in the United States. Working without authorization can result in deportation and future visa denials.
How long does US visa processing take from Ukraine?
Processing times vary based on appointment availability at the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv. Due to high demand and limited capacity, wait times can be several weeks to months. Priority is given to urgent and humanitarian cases.
What is the US tourist visa fee for Ukrainians in 2025?
The B1/B2 visa application fee is $185 (MRV fee). This must be paid in cash (UAH or USD) at the time of your interview. Additional fees may apply in 2025.
Do I need to book flights before applying?
No, you should not book non-refundable flights until your visa is approved. Have a general travel plan ready to discuss at your interview.
What happens during the visa interview?
The consular officer will ask about your travel plans, ties to Ukraine, financial situation, and purpose of visit. Be honest, confident, and concise. Interviews typically last 3-5 minutes.