Choose the right visa class for your visit. There are 31 different classes of non-immigrant visas listed on the State Department's website. Determine which class you fall into.
Fill out the DS-160 form online. This form is required for all non-immigrant visa applications except for those applying for a K visa. If applying for a K visa, fill out form DS-156. Your particular class of visa may require you to fill out other forms. Be sure to read the instructions for your visa class to be sure you fill out all applicable forms. The DS-160 will ask for your passport information, previous travel to the United States and travel to other countries in the past five years. Have that information handy to speed the process.
Upload your passport photo to the DS-160 form when it asks. Be sure your photo is a 2- by 2-inch photo taken in front of a white or off-white background. The head should be 1 to 1 3/8 inches in height. You should be facing the camera with eyes open and a neutral facial expression.
Submit the DS-160 form online and print out a copy for your records. You will need to take the barcode that prints with you to the consulate when you go for your interview.
Contact the embassy or consulate where you wish to obtain your visa. Ask whether an interview is required for the visa application process to go forward.
Schedule your visa application interview either over the phone or online.
Pay the non-immigrant visa application fee. Ask your U.S. embassy where and how to pay. You may be required to show a confirmation receipt of your interview appointment. After payment, keep the original payment receipt, or the receipt copy intended for the embassy.
Prepare for the interview. The consular officer will ask you about your visit to the United States. He will also want to know about what you do in your home country, your family and what your plans are for the future. Be ready to give straightforward answers. Rehearse with a friend if you get nervous.
Go to the embassy on the day of your visa interview. Line up at the designated windows and turn in your paperwork for pre-screening. Get your waiting number.
Have your fingerprints taken. Make sure your fingers are dry and clean. Place your fingers on the scanner as directed. Press firmly. Do not move your hand during the scanning. If you press too lightly, you may be asked to repeat the scanning.
Wait for your number to be called. Your number may be either displayed on a screen or called by a staff member.
Proceed to the interview window. Turn in your documents through the space in the window. Answer the consul officer's questions. Expect to be asked why you are visiting the United States, for how long and what your plans are in your home country. Prove to the interviewing officer that you want to visit the United States only temporarily and that you have good reason to come home to your country of origin.
Wait for your passport to arrive in the mail, if you are approved for a visa. Your passport will be delivered via courier. It takes only a few days. Check your visa when you get it. Make sure all the information is correct. Contact the embassy if you find any mistakes.
