# Travel >> Travel Preparation >> Tourist Visa

How to Obtain a US Tourist Visa Number

Foreign citizens who wish to travel to the United States usually must first obtain a visa, with the type of visa varying depending upon a person's reason for visiting the country. A B-2 visa, also known as a visitor visa, is available for those who wish to visit the country for pleasure, such as a vacation or to visit family, and those seeking medical treatment in the United States. The process for obtaining a B-2 visa is simple but should be started several months before you wish to travel. Before you begin the process, make sure you have a valid passport.

A passport
A computer with internet access
A 2-inch by 2-inch digital photograph of yourself
Up to US$350
An appointment at the nearest US consulate for a visa interview

Instructions

How to Obtain a US Tourist Visa
- 1
  
  The State Department has strict requirements for visa photos.
  
  Have someone take a digital photo of you. The U.S. State Department requires the photo to be sized to 2-inches by 2-inches and saved in .JPG format. You can do this in basic photo editing software.
- 2
  Complete form DS160 on the State Department website. All answers must be in English. After completion, you will receive a confirmation e-mail. Print the e-mail for safekeeping, as you will need to bring it to your visa interview. If you are applying for a visa for more than one person, there is an option on the form to add people to the application.
- 3
  Pay the application fee. For most visitors the fee is US$140 or US$150, but ranges up to US$350 in some cases. You can pay online or send a check or money order to the address on form DS160.
- 4
  Locate a US consulate in your country and schedule an interview appointment. Availability varies from country to country, so be sure to schedule your interview several months before you plan to travel to the US.
- 5
  Attend the interview. You will need to bring your passport, photograph, the confirmation page for the DS160 form and receipt for payment of application fees.