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US B1/B2 Visa Application: $185 & Interview Guide

Everything you need to know about applying for a US B1/B2 visitor visa, including interview preparation and tips.

12 min readByVisaCalm TeamUpdated January 15, 2026
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Understanding the B1/B2 Visa

The B1/B2 visa is the most common US visa for temporary visitors:

  • B1: Business purposes (meetings, conferences)
  • B2: Tourism, visiting family, medical treatment

The US Visa Interview

Unlike most visas, US visas require an in-person interview. This is your opportunity to demonstrate:

  • Genuine purpose for visit
  • Strong ties to home country
  • Intent to return after your visit

Application Process

Step 1: Complete DS-160

Fill out the online nonimmigrant visa application form.

Step 2: Pay MRV Fee

Pay the $185 visa application fee. Note: A $250 Visa Integrity and Border Security Fee was enacted in 2025 and applies upon visa approval, in addition to the $185 MRV application fee. Check the State Department website for current implementation status.

Step 3: Schedule Interview

Book appointment at the US Embassy or Consulate.

Step 4: Prepare Documents

  • Passport
  • DS-160 confirmation
  • Photo
  • Financial documents
  • Employment proof
  • Travel plans

Step 5: Attend Interview

Answer questions clearly and confidently.

Common Interview Questions

  • What is the purpose of your visit?
  • How long will you stay?
  • Where will you stay?
  • Who is paying for your trip?
  • What do you do for work?
  • Do you have family in the US?

Tips for Success

  1. 1Be confident but not overconfident
  2. 2Answer briefly and directly
  3. 3Bring all documents organized
  4. 4Demonstrate strong ties to home country
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Official Resources

B1/B2 Visa Information
The definitive source for B-1/B-2 visitor visa eligibility, application steps, and required evidence.
DS-160 Application
The official Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) portal used to submit the DS-160 application.
Schedule Appointment
The official scheduling system for securing an interview date at a US Embassy or Consulate.
Interview Wait Times
Review the publicly available data on current visa appointment wait times and processing delays.

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