The documents required for B1/B2 US visa interview have been a cause of controversy for quite some time now, as many sites keep publishing conflicting information. This has created a web of confusion, especially for first timers preparing to attend an interview at the US embassy in their respective countries. The US consulate and embassy are quite strict when it forms to documentation, and failure to show up with the right documents can lead to application rejection. To help you prepare properly for your interview, we list and explain the documents you should have for a B1 and B2 valid visa and other relevant information that will help your case.
What is A B1/B2 Visa?
A B1 or B2 visa is simply a temporary non immigrant visa issued to visitors coming to the US for tourism or business purposes. This visa is largely temporary unless in the case of the F1 visa for students. There are marked differences between both visas, you should know. While the B1 version covers business trips, B2 is strictly for social visits like tourism, family, and vacation. Most visitors travel to the states on a B1/B2.
B1/B2 Application Fee
The application fee for all visas under the B class is $160, which is separate from the other service charges you may incur. However, we should point out that the application fee is set to be reviewed by May 2023, and there is going to be a 15% increase, according to feelers coming from the Department of State.
B1/B2 Visa Processing Time
The average processing time for these visas is two months or eight weeks after submitting your application, but this time is not cast in stone. This is because US embassies and consulates in various countries have their processing timelines. Some embassies handle more applications than others, so they will take longer to issue interview dates. The waiting time will be longer for persons applying for an interview from their country of residence. It is best to apply for the visa as early as possible to avoid too much delay.
Reasons For Issuing The B1 Visa
To refresh your memory so you are not left confused, here are the reasons for issuing B1 visas
Conducting business m, attending meetings, or negotiating contracts in the UD
Attending a conference or a business or education event
Settling an estate
Reasons For Issuing a B2 Visa
Tourism and vacation
Family visits
Attending social events like concerts, classes
Recreational study course
Note: B1 and B2 visas are not for persons under long-term employment contracts with a US firm, paid performances as an artiste, crew member of a flight or ship, or foreign journalist.
Can I Get Permanent Residency With B1/B2 Visa?
Holders of any of these visas do not qualify for permanent residency status in the US because they are temporary entry documents. However, you can apply for a US green card after some time, and these visas are only valid for 180 days.
Who Is Eligible For The Visa?
Applicants must prove that they have the financial capacity to cover their trip and living costs.
They must also prove that they intend to leave the US after their stay or before their visa expires. Unless the applicant can prove their eligibility, the visa will not be issued to them.
What About The Visa Waiver Program?
The United States has a visa waiver program for nationals from selected countries. This program covers 38 countries, most in Europe, whose citizens do not need B visas to enter the country. One such country is Canada, whose citizens don't need a visa to enter the US. They only need visas if they want to stay for a long time for study work or if they want to move permanently to the US.
Documents Required For B1 and B2 Visa Interview
When preparing for a B1 or B2 visa, these are the documents the consular officer will ask for. Ensure that they are all valid and up to date.
A valid national passport with a minimum of six months' expiration beyond your departure date from the US
Recent photograph that meets photo requirements
Documents to show your previous five trips to the US
Bank statement to prove financial sufficiency, including living expenses and travel costs
Documents proving family ties to family in home country or property documents
These are the documents the embassy will request during the interview. Also, note that interviews are an important part of the visa application process; without interviews, the visa will not be approved. These documents should be attached to a completed Form DS-160, and the confirmation page should be printed and brought to gr embassy for the interview along with other documents required for B1 and B2 visa interview.