Nonimmigrant Visas

Tourist Visas - B2

Going on a pleasure trip? Going on holiday, or visiting family/friends?

First, gather all the documents required for a nonimmigrant visa.

Additionally, the following documents may also be useful in helping you apply for a tourist Visa:

Documents relating to the applicant:

• If the applicant is employed, the employment and salary details
• Income tax statements and documents to show the assets of the applicant, if any
• A No Objection Letter or Certificate and leave sanctioned letter if the applicant is in Government service or with any of the Armed Forces.

Please note: The above are only suggested documents and it should be noted that a visa is not assured even if you have all these documents.

Business and Tourist visa applicants are required to demonstrate their ties to India. Such evidence is necessary because American law does not allow the issuance of a nonimmigrant visa to people who may be presumed to be intending immigrants. Only those who can overcome this presumption - generally, those who can prove that they have substantial social, family and economic ties to India and the financial resources for an expensive trip or course of studies abroad - are qualified to receive most categories of nonimmigrant visas.

It is important to note that in these visa categories, the burden of proof is on the applicant. Documents that show the applicant's income and finances, the purpose of the trip, and the arrangements to cover the cost of the trip may help to convince a consular officer of an applicant's eligibility. It is impossible to specify the exact documents that should be submitted since each applicant's circumstances vary greatly.

Bringing only necessary documentation

For the various types of visas, we mention various required documents for each application. We also mention other suggested documents to bring along with one's application.

Please note: With suggested documentation, it is not necessary to bring duplicates. For instance, if a couple is going to visit a relative in the U.S., one copy of an AOS (Affidavit of Support) or salary details or a NOC (No Objection Certificate) or property documents is sufficient. Each applicant does not need to bring a separate copy.

Please remember: Although suggested documents may assist you in your interview, the Consular Officer relies primarily on the interview to determine your eligibility for a visa and does not depend too much on supporting documents.

Caution: Use only valid documents. Fraud or misrepresentation can result in permanent ineligibility for a nonimmigrant visa.