Core documents to prepare
#Passport and confirmations. Bring a valid passport, your DS-160 confirmation page, and any appointment confirmations required by the consulate.
Fee receipts and photo. Many posts require printed payment receipts and a photo that meets official specifications.
Basic identity records. Some applicants bring civil documents as supporting identity evidence, depending on the consular post.
Supporting documents
#Purpose evidence. Bring documents that support your visit purpose, such as meeting invites for business travel or visit plans for tourism.
Itinerary and logistics. If you have travel details, bring a simple itinerary. Some consulates do not require this; local post instructions explain what is required.
Examples
#Example: A B-1 applicant brings a meeting invitation and company letter showing the business purpose and duration.
Example: A B-2 applicant brings a simple travel plan and proof of ties to their home country, such as employment or school enrollment.
Common misconceptions
#“B-1 and B-2 are the same.”
The core documents overlap, but the supporting evidence should match the travel purpose.
“A ticket is required to apply.”
Many applicants apply without a ticket; check your consular post’s guidance.
“Short trips are always easy to approve.”
Eligibility still depends on evidence and official requirements, even for short visits.
How to plan
#Start by confirming your visit purpose and matching it to B-1 or B-2. Gather the core documents and then add supporting evidence that aligns with your purpose.
Interview availability can be a gating step, so check wait times early and avoid booking non-refundable travel before approval.
When to talk to a professional
#- Prior denials, overstays, or immigration violations
- Complex travel history or frequent travel plans
- Time-sensitive travel with limited interview availability
- Unclear travel purpose or documentation gaps
Next steps
#VisaMind helps you align the right checklist with your visit purpose and track each step to completion.
Use the B-1 guide or B-2 guide and Find My Visa to build a sequenced plan.
FAQs
Where can I verify official visitor visa requirements?
B‑1 is for business meetings or conferences and B‑2 is for tourism or family visits; both require DS‑160, fees, and an interview when required.
Do I need different documents for B-1 vs B-2?
Core documents are similar, but supporting evidence should match your travel purpose. Consular post instructions list the exact required documents.
Is a travel itinerary required?
Some consulates ask for a simple itinerary, while others do not. Always check local instructions.
How early should I start?
Start as soon as you know your travel window. Interview availability can be limited, so planning early helps reduce risk.
Sources
Last reviewed: 2026-01-29
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.
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