US tourist visa guide: how to apply step by step
By Travitap · Updated November 7, 2026
The route at a glance
- Fill out the DS-160.
- Pay the USD 185 fee.
- Book your appointment on the scheduling portal.
- Go to the VAC for biometrics.
- Attend the interview, or use Interview Waiver renewal if you qualify.
- Wait for your passport.
Step 1. Fill out the DS-160
Every traveler needs their own form. With Travitap, Travi fills it out for you: one question at a time, then you review everything on a single screen before the Sign and Submit stage. Full walkthrough: how to fill out the DS-160 step by step.
Step 2. Pay the fee
The B-1/B-2 fee is USD 185 per person and is not refundable (checked on 7 November 2026). At the consular exchange rate of 98 INR per USD (in effect since 25 May 2026), that is INR 18,130. Details: US visa fee in India.
Step 3. Book your appointment
After the DS-160 and payment, create your profile on US Visa Scheduling (usvisascheduling.com) and choose your date. How booking works: US visa appointment in India.
Step 4. VAC biometrics
In India you go to a VAC (Visa Application Center) for fingerprints and a photo before the interview. What to bring: VAC appointment, what to bring.
Step 5. Interview (or Interview Waiver renewal)
At the embassy or consulate you answer the officer's questions. If you already held a B-1/B-2 and meet the criteria, you may use Interview Waiver renewal instead: US visa renewal without an interview. The appointment portal shows which path applies to your case.
How Travitap helps you
Travitap focuses on the step that usually stalls people: the DS-160. Travi fills out the form for you, you review it, and you keep the rest of the route clear.
Sources
We cite these pages as sources of information so you can check the details. Travitap is an independent app and is not affiliated with the US government, its embassy or its consulates. Consulted on 7 November 2026.