My US Tourist Visa Application Journey
I started my US tourist visa process totally clueless. Googled around and found the official government website where I created my account. Remembered to bookmark that page because you’ll keep coming back.
First real step was filling that huge DS-160 form online. Seriously sat for three hours straight typing everything about my life:
- Typed my work history from memory
- Calculated travel dates using my phone’s calendar
- Dug through old emails to find my college details
After hitting submit, the website spit out that important confirmation page with the barcode. Immediately printed two copies – one went straight into my document folder, the other got taped on my wall.
Next came paying the fee. Went to my local bank with printed payment instructions. The teller looked confused at first but eventually found the right procedure. Made sure to keep that bank receipt safe like gold.
Back online to schedule appointments. First grabbed the visa interview slot at the embassy. Saw limited morning slots so clicked fast. Then booked separate time at the visa application center for fingerprinting. Pro tip: bring both appointment confirmations printed or they won’t let you in.
Document scramble time! Dug through my files for:
- Job letter with salary and approved leave dates
- Bank statements showing regular income deposits
- Property papers to prove I’ll come back home
- Hotel booking I made with free cancellation policy
Organized everything in a plastic folder with sticky note labels.
The Big Interview Day
Arrived at embassy two hours early just in case. Security line moved slower than expected. They made me ditch my phone and watch before entering.
Fingerprinting first – quick and painless. Then the real wait began. Stood in zigzag lines for about an hour watching people get called up.
Finally got called to window 7. The officer just asked three simple questions:
- “What do you do for work?”
- “Why visiting America?”
- “Have family there?”
Whole conversation lasted maybe 90 seconds. He typed something then said “Approved” with a smile.
Got my passport back by courier after four business days. That blue visa sticker looked beautiful when I finally saw it!
Biggest lesson? Looks scary but actually straightforward if you follow the steps. Just answer honestly and show you’ve got reasons to return home.
