What documents do you need for a US visa?
Every US visa applicant needs a valid passport, the DS-160 confirmation page, a fee receipt, the appointment confirmation and a compliant photo, plus supporting evidence.
Updated
Required for every applicant
| Document | What it needs to show |
|---|---|
| Passport | Valid at least six months beyond your intended stay in the US, unless your country has a bilateral exemption. |
| DS-160 confirmation page | The printed page with the barcode from your submitted online application. |
| Fee receipt | Proof you paid the application fee, $185 for B1/B2 and other non-petition-based categories. |
| Appointment confirmation | Your biometrics and interview details from the post's scheduling system. |
| Photograph | Colour photo taken in the last six months, plain white background, no glasses. |
Documents that support your application
Supporting documents show the officer that your trip makes sense and that you will go home afterwards. Bring originals where you can.
- Proof of funds: recent bank statements, pay slips, or a sponsor's letter with their own financial evidence.
- Employment or study evidence: an employer letter confirming your role and approved leave, or enrolment proof from your school.
- Travel itinerary and accommodation: your dates, flights and where you will stay.
- Ties to your home country: property or lease documents, family responsibilities, or an ongoing course.
- Invitation letter: if you are visiting family or travelling for business, a letter from your host or the company you are meeting.
What the officer can still ask for
travel.state.gov says additional documents may be requested to establish whether you qualify, for example evidence of the purpose of your trip, your intent to depart the US afterwards, and your ability to pay all costs of the trip.
Requirements also vary by category. A student visa needs a Form I-20 and SEVIS fee receipt, and a petition-based work visa needs the approval notice. Check your local embassy website for its own list.
Important: Never present a fabricated or altered document. Misrepresentation can make you permanently ineligible for a US visa, not just refused for this trip.
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Confirm the current list on travel.state.gov and your local embassy website before your appointment. Meeting every requirement does not guarantee a visa or entry to the US.
US visa documents - FAQ
At least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the US, unless your country has a bilateral agreement that waives the six-month rule. Check travel.state.gov for your nationality.
They are not on the required list, but bringing recent statements helps. Officers can ask for evidence of your ability to pay all costs of the trip.
It is not required, but it helps if you are visiting family or travelling for business. Your host writes it, and it does not replace your own supporting documents.
You can be turned away at the door or refused, and the application fee is not refunded. Re-check the post's list the day before and never leave without your passport and DS-160 confirmation page.