US Tourist Visa Requirements 2025-26 for Indians: Everything You Need to Know to Apply

The US Tourist Visa (B-2) is your way to temporarily travel in the United States for purposes like leisure, sightseeing, cultural events, or medical visits. In some cases, travellers may apply for the combined B-1/B-2 visa if their trip mixes business and tourism.

Applying involves completing the DS-160 online form, paying the application fee, scheduling your visa interview at a US Embassy or Consulate, and presenting proof of strong ties to your home country along with evidence of funds. Applicants from India should be aware of major US tourist visa rule changes, such as the Interview Waiver rollback, a Visa Bond Pilot Program for certain high-risk nationality groups, and the new Visa Integrity Fee. Now, let us walk you through the US Tourist Visa requirements in detail.   

Overview of US Tourist Visa (B1/B2) in 2025

As of 2025, a temporary B-1/B-2 visa bond pilot program was initiated for certain applicants from high-risk countries, who require a deposit of USD 15,000 to ensure to follow visa terms and timely return to their home countries. New rules for 2025 also prohibit applying for B-1/B-2 visas in a third country, which increases wait times for Indian applicants who previously relied on this option. Key requirements for the visa remain consistent, including a valid passport, completion of the online DS-160 form, payment of the application fee, evidence of strong ties to the home country, and proof of funds.   

Difference Between Business (B1) and Tourist (B2) Visas 

When planning your visit to the United States, it's important that you know the difference between the B-1 and B-2 visas. The B-1 visa is for short-term business activities such as meetings and contract negotiations, while the B-2 visa covers tourism, family visits, and medical treatment. Here are the key differences between the B1 and B2 tourist visas to help you choose the right visa based on your travel purpose.

Pro Tip: If your trip is both professional and a personal exploration, the combined B-1/B-2 visa is often the most preferred option. 

Who Needs a US Tourist Visa?

The US tourist visa, or the B-2 visa, is a nonimmigrant visa that allows foreign citizens to enter the United States temporarily for tourism, pleasure, or visiting family and friends. All foreign citizens who wish to visit the United States for tourism need a B-2 visa unless they are eligible to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).

The VWP allows citizens of certain countries to enter the United States for stays of up to 90 days without a visa. 

Major 2025 Updates in US Tourist Visa Requirements 

Interview Waiver Rollback (Effective September 2, 2025)  

From September 2, 2025, most non-immigrant visa applicants will have to attend an in-person interview, even if they are renewing a visa in the same category. The broad interview waiver introduced in previous years has been slightly narrowed, now largely limited to specific groups such as foreign officials. This change shows that many applicants who previously qualified for a waiver will need to prepare for a face-to-face meeting with consular officers, potentially extending wait times.

Visa Bond Pilot Program (Effective August 5, 2025)

In an effort to reduce visa overstays, a new temporary pilot program requires certain B-1/B-2 visa applicants from countries with high overstay rates to post a refundable bond. The bond amounts may vary from $5,000 to $15,000 and will be returned upon compliance with the visa terms. This program aims to encourage travelers to adhere to their authorized stay durations when visiting the U.S. 

Visa Integrity Fee (Effective October 1, 2025) 

Starting from October 1, 2025, most non-immigrant visa applicants will need to pay a new Visa Integrity Fee of $250. This fee is intended to ensure the security and integrity of the visa process and funding for related initiatives. Applicants should plan for this additional cost as part of their visa application budget.

Eligibility Requirements for Applying for a US Tourist Visa

If you're an Indian looking to visit the US for tourism, It's important to make sure you meet the eligibility requirements before you start planning your trip. Here are all the pointers you need to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

• Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of departure from the US
• You must have a clean criminal record
• If you're applying for a student visa, you'll need a letter of acceptance from a US university.
• If you're applying for a business visa, you'll need a letter of confirmation from your employer
• You must have a round-trip flight ticket to the US
• You must meet all the requirements for a US visa for Indians, which include having sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your stay.

Documents Required for a US Tourist Visa From India

If you're wondering what are the documents required for a US tourist visa from India, here's the information you're seeking. To initiate the application process for a US tourist visa from India, you must provide the following documents

• A valid Indian passport with at least six months of validity beyond your intended date of departure from the United States
• A completed and signed DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application form (Below is a screenshot of the application form)
• A recent passport photo that meets the US State Department's requirements
• A visa application fee receipt
• Proof of ties to India, such as a job offer, school enrollment, or property ownership
• Proof of financial support, such as bank statements or a letter from a sponsor

• A letter of invitation from a US citizen or resident (if applicable)
• A copy of your travel itinerary and hotel bookings (if applicable)
• A copy of your medical insurance policy

Also read: Differences between Visit Visa and Tourist Visa

The US Tourist Visa Documents Required for Interview

During your visa Interview, the US consular officer may ask for additional documents, which you must keep handy to fast-track your visa application. Keep the below documents handy

• Evidence of your employment or school enrollment
• Evidence of your financial resources, such as bank statements, pay stubs, or investment statements
• Proof of property ownership or other assets in India
• A copy of your marriage certificate or birth certificate (if applicable)
• The criminal record copy (if applicable)

Explore: Green card in the USA

Photo Requirements for US Tourist Visa

You need to follow certain photo requirements whether you submit your digital photo with the DS-160 application form or you submit a hard copy to the US Embassy. Following is the checklist

• The photo must be in color and measure 2x2 inches (51x51 mm)
• Ensure the background is either white or off-white when taking the photo
• The photo must be recent and taken within the past six months
• The photo must be clear and in focus, with your head centered in the frame
• You must be looking directly at the camera with your eyes open
• A neutral expression is preferred with your mouth closed
• Your head must be uncovered and your face must be fully visible
• You must not wear glasses or sunglasses in the photo
• You must not wear any hats or head coverings unless they are worn daily for religious or medical purposes

If you are wearing a hat or head covering for religious or medical purposes, you must submit a signed statement that verifies this.

You can submit a digital or printed photo for your US tourist visa application. If you are submitting a digital photo, it must meet the following requirements

• The file size must be less than 240 KB
• The resolution must be at least 300 pixels per inch (12 pixels per millimeter)
• The image must be in color (24 bits per pixel) using the sRGB color space
• The image must be saved in a JPEG or PNG file format

Also Read: Masters in Data Science in the USA

The US Tourist Visa Bank Statement Requirement

One common error among visa applicants, irrespective of visa type (tourist, student, B1/B2, or business), is the tendency to deposit large sums into their accounts just before applying to boost their balances. It is wiser to maintain a stable bank balance and showcase a consistent income history.

Let’s see what are the other bank requirements that you must maintain to show a good track record

• Determine the expected costs during your stay, encompassing accommodation, meals, transportation, and other essentials
• Assume a daily expenditure of around $200 for a comprehensive estimate
• If planning a 30-day visit, calculate the total projected expenses accordingly
• Ideally, maintain a minimum balance of $6,000 in your bank account, exclusive of flight tickets and travel insurance costs
• Consider maintaining a balance ranging from $6,000 to $10,000
• Ensure that the account balance reflects a steady source of income and accumulated savings
• Avoid making abrupt deposits just before the visa application to prevent potential misinterpretation by visa officers
• Demonstrate that the maintained balance is a result of consistent financial stability rather than a recent attempt to enhance the appearance of financial standing 

US Tourist Visa Processing Times and Appointment Availability  

After your visa interview, you can expect your US tourist visa to be processed in approximately 7-10 business days. US tourist visa wait times in India are set to be lengthy as always, but recent months have seen some improvements in certain cities.  Here are the latest US tourist visa processing times and appointment availability in India in 2025. 

How to Apply for a US Tourist Visa from India?

Securing a US visa involves a lengthy process that can span several months. Various steps must be diligently followed to obtain a tourist visa for the USA from India. These steps include the following

• Step 1: For the US tourist visa types, complete the DS-160 form online and print the confirmation page for your interview
• Step 2: Pay the $160 application fee, either during the application or before the interview. Keep the receipt as a required document
• Step 3: Schedule your interview at the US embassy in your home country, preferably. Be prepared for the appointment
• Step 4: Attend the interview on the scheduled date with all necessary documents
• Step 5: Track your US visa application online or contact the embassy via email or phone
• Step 6: Upon approval, you'll be notified to collect your passport within 14 working days. Passport delivery via courier is available for a fee of INR 650 if needed

Navigating the US Tourist Visa Requirements from India with Confidence

In conclusion, understanding and meeting the US tourist visa requirements from India is pivotal for a seamless journey to the United States. From completing the DS-160 form to scheduling the interview and tracking your application, each step plays a crucial role in the process.

Additionally, for convenience in all your travel-related services, consider the comprehensive solutions offered by GetGIS. Their expertise ensures a smoother experience, leaving you better prepared to embark on your US adventure. Safe travels!

Also Read: 

• Australian Visa Requirements
• Australia Tourist Visa Requirements
• Your Essential Guide to Fulfilling Switzerland Tourist Visa Requirements
• New Zealand Visitor Visa Requirements 2025