Do Indians Need a Visa for the United States?
Yes. Indian passport holders must obtain a valid visa before travelling to the United States. The US does not offer visa-on-arrival or e-visa facilities for Indian citizens.
Whether you are travelling for tourism, visiting family or friends, or attending social events, you must apply for an appropriate visa before departure.
What Type of US Visa Do Indians Need for Tourism?
Indian tourists are required to apply for a B-2 Visitor Visa. The B-2 visa is issued for:
- Tourism and sightseeing
- Visiting friends or relatives
- Participation in social or cultural events
- Medical treatment
The B-2 visa does NOT permit:
- Employment or paid work
- Studying or enrolling in academic programs
- Paid performances or professional engagements
- Journalism, press, or media-related work
- Joining as a crew member of an aircraft or ship
- Permanent residence in the United States
Validity of US Tourist Visa for Indians
In most cases, the United States issues a multiple-entry tourist visa valid for up to 10 years.
However, each visit to the US is typically limited to a maximum stay of 6 months, as determined by the immigration officer at the port of entry.
US Tourist Visa Fees for Indians
The current US visitor visa application fee for Indian citizens is:
- USD 185 (approximately ₹15,000, subject to exchange rates)
Important: This fee is non-refundable and non-transferable, even if the visa application is rejected.
US Tourist Visa Processing Time
After completing biometric submission and attending the visa interview, the processing time generally ranges from:
- A few working days
- Up to 2 weeks in most cases
In rare situations, additional administrative processing may be required, which can extend the processing time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the US tourist visa guaranteed for Indians?
No. Approval depends on your interview, travel history, financial stability, and intent to return to India.
Can I work in the US on a tourist visa?
No. Any form of employment or paid activity is strictly prohibited on a B-2 visa.
Can I extend my stay beyond 6 months?
Extensions are possible but must be applied for within the US and are not guaranteed.
Is an interview mandatory for a US tourist visa?
Yes. Most applicants must attend an in-person interview at a US embassy or consulate.
Does a 10-year visa allow continuous stay?
No. The visa validity allows multiple entries, but each stay is limited to a maximum of 6 months.
Important Notes
- Visa issuance and duration are solely at the discretion of US authorities
- Holding a visa does not guarantee entry into the United States
- Always comply with immigration rules to avoid future visa issues
vfsvisaupdate.com is an independent informational website and is not affiliated with VFS Global, any embassy, or government authority. Visa rules may change at any time.