Overview
In preparation for the Consular Section interview, applicants must collect the appropriate documentation related to the purpose of travel. Provided below is the suggested list of documents for all visa categories. You will need to establish that you meet the requirements under U.S. law to receive the category of visa for which you are applying. There is no guarantee that a visa will be issued. Do not make final travel plans or buy tickets until a visa is issued.
Note: Additional documentation may be required. Please review the instructions on how to apply for a visa on the website of the Embassy or Consulate where you will apply. Additional documents may be requested to establish visa qualifications.
- For visa applications that require an in-person interview at the Consular Section, applicants must bring all required documents with them to the interview.
- For visa applicants that do not require an in-person interview at the Consular Section, applicants must include all required documents for Consular Section review in the application package to be submitted by the applicant.
General Required Documents - For All Visa Types
The following documents are required for all visa types:
- The current passport valid for travel to the United States. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the period of stay (H-1B renewal application date) in the United States (unless exempt by country-specific agreements). The current passport must contain a blank, unmarked page for placement of a visa foil.
- Passport (only if different than the current valid one) containing the most recently issued H-1B visa (if the H-1B visa is still valid).
- Appointment confirmation letter.
- Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 confirmation page.
- One 5 x 5 cm (2 x 2 inches) color photo taken within the last 6 months. Further details regarding Department of State photo guidelines can be found at: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/photos.html.
Additional Required Documents - Depending on Visa Type
(H) TEMPORARY WORKER
- Receipt Number for your approved petition as it appears on your Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker Form I-129 or Notice of Action Form I-797 from USCIS (does not apply to H1B1 visa applicants).