Indian passport holders need a US visitor visa (B-1/B-2): an online form, then an in-person interview at a US embassy or consulate.
What you need to know
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India isn't in the Visa Waiver Program, so ESTA isn't an option. You need a B-1/B-2 visitor visa.
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Fill in the DS-160 form online, pay the visa fee, then book your appointments online.
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Apply at the US Embassy or a US consulate in the country where you live. The US accepts applications in your country of nationality or the country where you live.
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Your photo and fingerprints are taken during the visa process and again when you arrive.
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A visa lets you travel to the US but doesn't guarantee entry. The officer at the border decides if you can enter and how long you can stay. This is shown on your I-94 record.
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The visa fee can't be refunded, even if your visa is refused.
Documents to bring
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Passport valid for your whole stay (India is exempt from the US six-month passport rule)
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DS-160 confirmation page
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Proof you paid the visa application fee
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Photo (uploaded with your DS-160)
Official source
Official government source ↗
A citizen of a foreign country who seeks to enter the United States generally must first obtain a U.S. visa, which is placed in the traveler’s passport.
Last verified 6 Oct 2026
Entry rules change often. Before you book or travel, please confirm with the official government source or the embassy. Can I Go? is a helpful guide, not legal advice. How we check our rules