Whether you’re traveling for business, leisure, or attending a conference, getting a U.S. non-immigrant visa involves careful planning. From appointment logistics to interview preparation and security rules, this guide breaks down everything Indian applicants need to know — clearly and confidently

DS160 USA B1/B2 VISA FORM Process

The first step in applying for a U.S. non-immigrant visa is to complete your application.
After you submit your application, you can move on to the next steps, like scheduling your interview.

DS-160 Application Form – Rules and Regulations
Purpose of DS-160:

1. To collect personal, travel, and background information from visa applicants.
2. It’s electronically submitted to the U.S. Department of State.
3. Consular officers use it to process visa applications.

Be prepared to provide:
(a) Personal details: Name, birth date, nationality, marital status, etc.
(b) Passport information: Number, issue/expiry date, issuing country.
(c) Travel plans: Dates, purpose of visit, U.S. address, point of contact.
(d) Previous U.S. travel history: Past visits, visa refusals, or overstays.
(e) Family information: Parents, spouse, children (if applicable).
(f) Education and work: Current and past employment/education details.
(g) Security/background questions: Health, criminal record, immigration violations, etc.

Application Storage on CEAC
• Once you start a DS-160 and save it, your incomplete application is stored for 30 days on the CEAC website. Within those 30 days, you can return using your Application ID to continue filling it out.
• After 30 Days: The saved data is deleted from the CEAC system.

• Once you use the DS-160 confirmation number to book an appointment, it remains valid until your visa interview — even if the interview happens months later.
Note:  Consulates / Embassy may recommend submitting a new DS-160 if there is a long gap (more than 12 months) between submission and interview.
• If you never schedule an interview for more than 30 days, you may need to fill out and submit a new DS-160 form.
• You can also update or create a new DS-160 anytime before your interview and update your appointment profile with the new confirmation number.
• If you cancel your appointment and don’t reschedule it for a long time, or your details change significantly, consulates recommend submitting a new DS-160.

Two-Step Appointment Process: VAC & Embassy/Consulate

All applicants must complete two appointments:

1. Visa Application Centre (VAC) – For biometric data (photo & fingerprints).
2. U.S. Embassy/Consulate – For the visa interview.

Make sure to check the confirmation letter for the dates and locations of both Including passport details with Application FORM ID

Who Can Attend the Appointment?

• Only the applicant is allowed inside.
• Applicants under 14 or over 80 typically do not need to attend, unless instructed otherwise. – This Rule goingto change soon.
• Minors can be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• Applicants with disabilities may bring a caretaker.
• The default interview language is English. If you require a different language, ask at the location — or bring a translator (subject to approval). Interview language to select at the time of profile creation, so make it English and remove other details for visa approval.

Arrival Timing & Access

• Arrive on time, not early. – Minimum 15 mins before at the respective office security.
• You won’t be allowed into the facility before your scheduled slot.
• No parking and locker facility is available at VACs or consulates — plan accordingly.

What You Can and Cannot Bring

Security is strict. Avoid carrying:

• Electronics (phones, smartwatches, laptops, USBs, key fobs).
• Large bags or backpacks.
• Food, drinks, cosmetics, or sealed envelopes.
• Sharp objects or flammable items.
• Weapons or weapon-like objects.

Only bring:

• Required documents in transparent box file.
• Small, hand-carried folders or plastic pouches.

There is no storage facility, so make arrangements before arriving.

See full list: Prohibited Items – ustraveldocs.com

Documents to Carry

For the VAC Appointment:

• DS-160 confirmation page
• Appointment confirmation letter
• Valid passport
• Photos (for children under 14, following U.S. photo guidelines)

For the Embassy/Consulate Interview:

• All of the above, plus:
• Supporting documents based on your visa category
• Most recent expired passport (if applicable)
• Invitation letter (if visiting someone or attending an event)
• Any additional proof based on your purpose (e.g., employer letters, financial proof)

Can You Reschedule?

• Yes, but only once.
• A second reschedule or missed appointment means you’ll need to pay the visa fee again

Reschedule here: ustraveldocs.com

DS-160 Corrections

If your DS-160 form is about to expire or contains errors:

• Fill out a new one.
• Bring both the old and new confirmation pages.
• If you can’t bring both, cancel and rebook your appointment with the updated DS-160.

Update DS-160: ceac.state.gov/genniv

Visa Collection & Pickup

• You’ll receive an SMS/email once your passport is ready.
• Collect it from your chosen location by presenting a valid photo ID (original and photocopy).

Free pickup at VACs

₹1200 fee at premium drop-off/pickup points

Uncollected passports are returned after 7–14 working days. NO Direct passport collection by agents or Representatives

Details: Document Delivery – ustraveldocs

Interview FAQs: Be Ready for These Questions

Prepare for these categories of questions, especially if applying for a B-1/B-2 (visitor/business) visa. Before you start, check the detailed checklists:

Business Visa Checklist (B-1)

Family Visit Tourist Visa Checklist (B-2)

Tourist Visa Checklist – Individual (B-2)

Special Case Scenarios

If You’re an Employee:

• Be ready to explain your role, current project, training purpose, and company profile
• Bring company and personal tax returns, offer letter, and experience certificates with all personal financial proofs

If You’re a Business Owner:

• Prepare financial docs like balance sheets, IT returns, Indian Government certificates, and proof of ownership with all financial proof.
• Be ready to explain how the business will operate in your absence.

If You’re Attending a Conference:

• Show proof of registration.
• Explain how the event aligns with your business or profession.
• Mention previous participation in similar events (if any).

Final Reminders on Security Rules

Don’t carry:

• Phones or any gadgets
• Large bags.
• Food, perfume, cosmetics.
• Sharp or flammable items.

Bring:

• Only required documents.
• Small folder or transparent pouch.
• A calm, confident mindset.

Catalyca Tip

At Catalyca, we support corporate travellers with end-to-end visa assistance, from documentation checks to real-time updates. Whether you’re a first-time traveller or a seasoned executive, our platform ensures every step is easy, compliant, and stress-free.

Ready for Take-off?

Applying for a U.S. visa doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right prep and documents, your appointment can be smooth and successful.

Have questions about travel planning, visa strategy, or corporate bookings?

Contact Catalyca Travel Experts