How to apply for a US B1/B2 Visa as a Venezuelan citizen

Are you a Venezuelan citizen planning to visit the US for business or leisure? You’ll need to apply for a US B1/B2 Visa. While we don’t process B1/B2 Visa applications, this guide will help you understand the application process and key requirements.

What is a US B1/B2 Visa?

The US B1/B2 Visa combines two visa types: the B1 Visa for business purposes and the B2 Visa for tourism, visiting family, or medical treatment. It’s ideal for short-term trips, but if you’re looking to live or work in the US permanently, you’ll need a different visa.

Here are the main benefits of the B1/B2 Visa:

• It is valid for 10 years.

• It’s a multiple-entry visa, allowing multiple visits over its validity period.

• Each stay can be for a maximum of 180 days per visit.

Learn more about the US B1/B2 Visa

What documents do I need to apply for a US B1/B2 Visa?

To apply for a US B1/B2 Visa, Venezuelan citizens will need the following:

• Valid passport: Must have at least six months of validity beyond your intended stay in the US.

• DS-160 confirmation page: Proof that you completed the online nonimmigrant visa application form.

• Visa fee payment receipt: Proof of payment for the visa application fee.

• Recent passport-size photo: Must meet US visa photo requirements.

• Travel itinerary: Details of your planned travel, including flight and accommodation reservations.

• Proof of financial means: Bank statements, payslips, or documents showing you can support yourself during your stay.

• Ties to Venezuela: Documents such as proof of employment, property ownership, or family connections to demonstrate strong ties to your home country.

Important note: Due to the suspension of consular services in Venezuela, Venezuelan citizens must apply at a US embassy or consulate abroad. The closest one is the US Embassy in Bogota, Colombia, meaning you’ll need to travel to Colombia for your interview​.

How to apply for a US B1/B2 Visa from Venezuela

1.Complete the DS-160 form: The DS-160 is the official nonimmigrant visa application form. You must fill it out online through the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) website.

2.Schedule your visa appointment and pay the fee: Once the DS-160 form is completed, schedule your visa interview through the US scheduling and payment website. You’ll also need to pay the visa fee.

3.Attend the visa interview: On the day of your interview, carry your application form and the required documents. You’ll provide your biometrics, and a consular officer will ask questions about your travel plans.

iVisa pro tip: If you’ve previously traveled to other countries like the UK, Europe, or Canada, mention it during your interview. A solid travel history can show consular officers that you’ve followed visa rules before and can increase your chances of approval​.

How much does the US B1/B2 Visa cost?

The visa application fee for the B1/B2 Visa is USD $185. Keep in mind that this fee is non-refundable, even if your visa application is denied.

How long does the visa process usually take?

Processing times can vary depending on the wait time for interviews at the US embassy or consulate you choose. For Venezuelan citizens applying in Colombia, delays may occur due to the high demand for appointments.

Processing times can range from a few weeks to several months, so we recommend applying well in advance of your travel date.

Where can I learn more about the US B1/B2 Visa?

For more details about applying for a B1/B2 Visa in Colombia, you can reach out to the US Embassy in Bogota:

US Embassy in Bogota

• Address: Carrera 45 No. 24B-27 Bogotá, D.C. Colombia

• Phone: +57 601 275 2000