United States Visa Requirements

It depends on your nationality. Citizens from 42 Visa Waiver Program countries (including UK, Germany, France, Japan, Australia, and South Korea) can visit for up to 90 days with ESTA authorization. All other nationalities, including India, China, Brazil, and Nigeria, must apply for a B1/B2 visitor visa.

Processing times vary dramatically by location and season. Some embassies process visas within days, while others have wait times of several months for interview appointments. Check the US State Department's Global Visa Wait Times tool for current estimates at your nearest embassy.

The B1/B2 visitor visa application fee is $185 (non-refundable, even if denied). Student visas (F-1, M-1) cost $185, while work visas range from $205 to $315 depending on category. ESTA authorization for Visa Waiver Program countries costs $21.

The global B1/B2 approval rate is approximately 76-80%. However, rates vary significantly by nationality. European and developed Asian countries see approval rates above 95%, while applicants from countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nigeria face refusal rates around 45-50%.

ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) allows citizens from 42 Visa Waiver Program countries to visit the US for up to 90 days without a visa. It costs $21, is valid for 2 years, and must be obtained online before travel. ESTA holders cannot extend their stay or change status.

Bring your passport, DS-160 confirmation page, appointment letter, and a recent photo. Supporting documents should include proof of funds, employment verification, ties to your home country, travel itinerary, and the purpose of your visit. Strong documentation significantly improves approval chances.

There is no formal appeal process for visa denials. However, you can reapply at any time with new or additional evidence addressing the reasons for refusal. The most common denial reason (Section 214(b)) means the officer was not convinced you would return home after your visit.

B1/B2 visa holders are typically admitted for up to 6 months per visit. The exact duration is determined by the CBP officer at entry. ESTA visitors under the Visa Waiver Program are limited to 90 days maximum with no extensions allowed.