How To Apply

How Do I Apply For A Visitor Visa?

We are experiencing significant technical difficulties with the DS-160 application for U.S. visas at this time.   If you are currently experiencing difficulty accessing the DS-160 online, we ask that you try the system again later, as we expect to see improved performance soon.  

We apologize for any disruption caused by these problems.  This technical issue is impacting operations worldwide and is a top priority for the Department of State. 

We will provide updates on this issue on our website as we obtain more information.  We thank you for your patience and apologize again for any inconvenience. 

If you have an emergency need for travel in the next 24 hours, please contact us directly at chennainiv@state.gov. 

     DS-160 Online Application

How do I apply?

Visa applicants under age 80 must be interviewed in person by a U.S. Consular Officer. Applicants for visas should generally apply at the American Embassy or Consulate with jurisdiction over their place of permanent residence. Although visa applicants may apply at any U.S. consular office abroad, it may be more difficult to qualify for a visa outside your country of residence. For example, those applying at the U.S. Consulate in Chennai should be Indian citizens or hold legal Indian residency and be able to demonstrate strong economic, familial, and/or social ties to India. All non-Indian applicants should have residency permits that extend through their anticipated dates of travel. Minor children included in a parent’s passport require their own application and fee.

Every applicant's circumstance is different. We encourage you to carefully review our non-immigrant visa categories before beginning the application process. For immigrant visas, click here.

How to Apply Using the DS-160

1. Access the form DS-160.

7. Carry the following documents with you

 

8. Report for Interview

Note: Fulfilling the visa application requirements detailed in items listed above does not guarantee issuance of a visa. A visa may be issued only when the applicant independently qualifies for visa status.

 

2. Scan and upload your application photo.

3. Complete your DS-160 application online.

4. Print barcode at the end of the application on a laser printer.

5. Pay the visa application fee at an approved HDFC bank.

6. Make your appointment through VFS. You need your barcode number and fee receipt to make an appointment.