If you are reading this article, chances are that you are preparing for your B1/B2 U.S. visa interview. Most U.S. visa interview don’t last long – usually within few minutes – the consular officer will make a decision on your case, and off you go, smiling, feeling sad or disappointment.
Here are some examples of activities permitted with a B1 Visitor visa:
- Consult with business associates
- Attend a scientific, educational, professional, or business convention or conference
- Settle an estate
- Negotiate a contract
Here are some examples of activities permitted with a B2 Visitor visa:
- Tourism
- Vacation (holiday)
- Visit with friends or relatives
- Medical treatment
- Participation in social events hosted by fraternal, social, or service organizations
- Participation by amateurs in musical, sports, or similar events or contests, if not being paid for participating
- Enrollment in a short recreational course of study, not for credit toward a degree (for example, a two-day cooking class while on vacation)
To increasing your chances of getting your B1/B2 visa, here are important checklists and important documents to print and carry along for your US visa interview (depending on your nationality) – and possible questions you may be asked.
1. DS 160 Confirmation
2. Appointment Confirmation Letter
3. International Passport (government issued travel passport)
4. 2 passport size photo – even if you uploaded a digital photo (US Embassy standard) on your DS 160 application.
*Without the first three documents mentioned above or if the documents are not in order, you will not be allowed to enter the U.S. embassy or consulate for your interview.
Other important supporting documents:
5. Purpose of trip to the United States (Invitation Letter)
6. Bank statements
7. Flight & Hotel Booking confirmation (not really necessary but may be useful).
Questions you may be asked during your interview:
The following is a list of interview questions and answers, specially suited for B1/B2 US visa interview process. This will help you prepare you for a USA visa interview.
The list contains sample questions and useful tips for your interview at a US consulate or embassy.
Q: Why do you want to go to USA?
A: Tell the reason for your visit to USA, e.g. Conference, Business or vacationing. If you are applying as a dependent, you can say that you are accompanying your spouse to USA. If you are parents going to visit your children, you may answer that you are visiting your children.
Q: For how long will you be in USA?
A: Mention the length of your trip.
Q: Do you have any relatives in the US?
A: Give the true answer Yes or No.
Note: Do not give details of other relatives unless they ask first.
Q: Who will pay the expenses for your trip?
A: Provide the answer based on your visa type and financial situation. If it is a sponsored trip, say your sponsor will pay the expenses.
Q: Do you need interpreter ?
No. I speak English.
Q: Did you ever visit any other country ?
Tell the Consular Officer your previous travel history to other foreign countries
Q: What do you do ?
What do you do for a living? Occupation? Where do you work? They may asked you questions based on your area of profession. Be prepared!
Q: Where will you stay in US ?
Give details of where you will stay when you arrive the U.S. and how long you will be staying.
* Please, make sure all your answers tally with what was filled in your DS 160 visa application form. Very important.
Let all your answers be short and straight to the point unless you are asked to explain further.
Appearance
Dress smart and appropriately.
Arrive early for your interview.
Try not to look nervous.
Be polite and demonstrate respect in your language. Don’t be afraid to say “I beg your pardon” if you do not understand a question because of the interviewer’s accent. If you are not sure of the answer to a particular question, say so.
During the interview make sure to look at the consular officer interviewing you in the eyes. No looking else where or the ceiling. Be bold. Smile and be confident and truthful in all your answers.
Discover more from Visas & Travels
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.