US Visa renewal for Indian citizens: Complete guide

If you already have (or previously had) a U.S. B1/B2 visa as an Indian citizen, you may be eligible to renew your visa without attending an in-person interview, depending on your circumstances. This is commonly known as the Interview Waiver Program (IWP).

With our guided visa service, we help you accurately complete a new DS-160 form and support you throughout the entire B1/B2 visa application process for the United States.

Correctly completing the DS-160 form online is one of the most important steps in the U.S. Visa renewal process and plays a key role in improving your chances of approval. Below, you’ll find a complete guide on how to apply for a U.S. Tourist Visa from India, including expert review.

What is the B1/B2 visa?

The U.S. B1/B2 visa is one of the most commonly issued non-immigrant visas, allowing travelers to enter the United States for short-term stays.

• B1 Visa: For travelers visiting the U.S. for business purposes, such as meetings, conferences, trade fairs, or professional, educational, or scientific events.
• B2 Visa: For travelers visiting the U.S. for tourism, leisure, visiting friends or relatives, or receiving medical treatment.

Most applicants receive a combined B1/B2 visa, which allows travel for both business and tourism purposes. iVisa helps you select the correct document for your application.

Requirements for completing the DS-160 form online for Indians

The DS-160 application has relatively simple requirements. You will need:

• A valid passport
  Your Indian passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of arrival in the United States.

• A digital passport-style photo
  You must upload a recent photo that meets U.S. government specifications and bring a printed copy to your visa appointment. If you don’t have a compliant photo, you can use our passport photo service.

• A payment method
  A credit or debit card is required to pay the DS-160 processing fee.

• Additional documents Depending on the travel purpose, you'll need to provide proof of funds (bank statements), ties to your home country (a job or studies, family), and other evidence.

How to renew U.S. B1/B2 Visa from India with iVisa

We’ve simplified the U.S. tourist visa application application process into three easy steps:

1. Complete the online application process
   Provide your personal details and travel information. This information determines the applicable visa processing fees.

2. Review and submit payment
   Carefully review your application before submitting it. Our iVisa experts will verify your form to ensure accuracy and completeness. If additional information is required, we will contact you directly.

3. Upload supporting documents
   Upload required documents, such as your passport photo. You’ll be notified if any additional documentation is needed.

Once completed, you can submit your U.S. visitor visa application. You’ll receive a confirmation page, a detailed guided visa manual, and be assigned a dedicated iVisa expert to assist you with the remaining steps.

Important notes about renewals

• A visa renewal is treated as a new application, and approval is never guaranteed
• Visa validity and duration are determined solely by the U.S. government
• Holding a valid or renewed visa does not guarantee entry into the United States; final admission is decided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Scheduling a B1/B2 visa interview in India

In many renewal cases, an interview is not required. If you qualify for the Interview Waiver Program:

• You will still need to complete and submit a new DS-160 form
• You must pay the U.S. visa application fee
• You will be instructed to submit your passport and supporting documents through a Visa Application Center (VAC) instead of attending an embassy interview

How to prepare for the U.S. visa interview in India

If you are asked for an interview, preparation makes a significant difference. Here are some tips to help you succeed:

• Review visa requirements
  Carefully review official U.S. visa requirements before your interview since you last visited. When you apply with us, you’ll receive a detailed guide outlining required documents and next steps.

• Practice your English
  Interviews are generally conducted in English, so make sure you’re comfortable answering basic questions clearly.

• Dress professionally
  Smart casual or business attire is recommended.

• Prepare for common questions
  Expect questions about your travel plans, background, employment, and ties to India. Answer honestly and clearly.

• Bring all required documents
  This includes your valid passport, DS-160 confirmation page, visa fee receipt, and supporting documents such as bank statements or employment letters.

• Be confident and truthful
  Confidence and honesty are key. Provide accurate information and avoid unnecessary details.

• Practice mock interviews
  Rehearsing with friends or family can help reduce anxiety.

• Arrive on time
  Late arrivals may result in rescheduling your interview.

Processing time and cost for the B1/B2 visa

When applying with iVisa, we charge a service fee for reviewing and preparing your application.

Important: The U.S. government charges a separate visa application fee, which is paid directly to the U.S. authorities and is not included in our service fee.

Check the total fees here:

More questions about the DS-160 form and U.S. visa application?

If you’re unsure whether you qualify for a U.S. B1/B2 visa renewal from India, our experts are available to help you assess your eligibility and guide you through the process.

More questions about the DS-160 form? If you have any questions about how to apply for a US Tourist visa from India, don't worry, our customer service experts are here to help 24/7 via chat or WhatsApp.