The United States is home to world-famous landmarks, iconic cities, and unforgettable natural wonders. But before you can experience them, you’ll need to apply for a tourist visa. It’s a key part of planning your visit, but the process doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
This Remitly guide will walk you through everything you need to know about getting a US tourist visa: what it is, how to apply, what you can and can’t do with it, and how to avoid common pitfalls. With the right information, you can move through the process with confidence, and focus on enjoying your time in the US.
What is a tourist visa?
A US tourist visa, officially known as a B-2 visa, is a nonimmigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to enter the United States temporarily for non-work-related purposes. This includes activities like tourism, vacation, medical treatment, visiting family or friends, or attending social or cultural events.
It’s one of the most commonly issued visas for short-term stays in the US, typically up to six months.
Permitted activities under the tourist visa
The visa covers a variety of temporary, personal activities. Here are some examples of what’s allowed:
- Tourism and vacation: sightseeing trips, visiting major cities, national parks, or historic landmarks
- Visiting family and friends: spending time with relatives or friends living in the US
- Medical treatment: receiving medical care that’s not available or accessible in your home country
- Attending events: volunteering or attending conventions, expos, or festivals of a social or cultural nature
- Amateur contests: competing in athletic, music, or art competitions where there is no compensation or professional contract
- Short study courses: taking a short, non-credit, recreational course, such as a two-week cooking class
Prohibited activities under the tourist visa
The tourist visa has strict limits, and engaging in any of the following activities can result in denial of entry, visa cancellation, or future travel bans:
- Employment: you cannot work or be paid by a US-based employer
- Remote or freelance work: you cannot perform any work, even if your employer is abroad
- Formal education: you cannot enroll in school or university as a full-time student
- Immigration: pursuing long-term residency or indicating immigration intent is not allowed
- Journalism: reporting or producing media for foreign outlets while in the US is not permitted
- Birth tourism: traveling to the US solely to give birth and obtain US citizenship for your child is not allowed
How the tourist visa compares to other US visas
Understanding the difference between a tourist visa and other visa types can help you choose the right one:
- Work visa (H-1B or L-1): if you are hired for specialty occupations or intra-company transfers
- Student visa (F-1): if you are studying full-time in the US at an accredited school
- Exchange visitor visa (J-1): if you are participating in an approved cultural or educational exchange program
- Immigrant visa (Green Cards): if you are seeking permanent residency to live in the US
Key features of a tourist visa
Understanding the characteristics of a tourist visa can help you prepare for your trip and avoid issues at the border.
Validity period
The validity of a B-2 visa can vary depending on your nationality. Some are valid for a few months, while others last up to 10 years. However, the maximum length of stay per trip is typically six months, as determined by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the port of entry.
You may be able to apply for an extension of up to another six months using Form I-539, but approval is not guaranteed.
Single vs. multiple-entry
B-2 visas can be issued for single or multiple entries. A multiple-entry visa allows you to enter the US multiple times within the visa’s validity period. However, frequent or prolonged visits may raise questions about your intention and could lead to additional scrutiny or denial of entry.
Proof of nonimmigrant intent
This visa is a nonimmigrant visa, which means you must prove your intent to return home after your visit. Evidence of ties to your country, like a job, home, or family, can help support your case. Unlike dual-intent visas, like the H-1B, this visa does not allow you to pursue permanent residency while in the US.
No guarantee of entry
Even if you receive a visa, final admission into the US is at the discretion of CBP officers at the airport or border. They may ask you questions and have the authority to deny entry.
How to apply for a tourist visa
Step 1: Complete the DS-160 Form
Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form (DS-160). It takes about 90 minutes to complete and includes uploading a compliant visa photo. Make sure to print the confirmation page and bring it to your visa interview.
Step 2: Pay the application fee
Pay the non-refundable fee of $185 USD. Pay through the US embassy or consulate website in your country. The embassy or consulate may also charge an issuance fee, depending on your nationality.
Step 3: Schedule a visa interview
Book an appointment with the nearest US embassy or consulate. If you are under 14 or over 80, you may be able to apply by mail and skip the interview, but the consulate may still request one.
Step 4: Prepare for the interview
Gather all required documentation, including your passport, nonimmigrant visa application confirmation page, application fee payment receipt, passport-style photo, plus any supporting documents.
Step 5: Attend the interview
During the interview, the consular officer will assess your eligibility. Common interview questions include:
- What is the purpose of your trip?
- Who will pay for your expenses?
- Do you have family in the US?
- What do you do for a living?
- How long will you stay in the US?
The office will also take digital fingerprint scans during the interview.
Tourist visa requirements
Make sure you have all of the following documents ready and organized before scheduling your visa appointment.
- Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the US, unless exempt by country-specific agreements.
- Proof of financial means: You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay. This can include bank statements, pay stubs, or other financial documents. A notarized letter of financial support can be submitted if someone else is funding your travel.
- Ties to your home country: Evidence of strong ties to your home country, such as employment, family, or property, can help demonstrate your intention to return after your visit.
- Travel itinerary: While not mandatory, providing a detailed itinerary, including flight and accommodation details, can support your application. If visiting a friend or family, ask them to write an invitation letter, including their full name, address, status in the US, and reason for your visit.
- Medical letters: If traveling for treatment, bring your diagnosis and appointment letter.
- Application fees and forms: Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160) and pay the non-refundable application fee.
- Passport photograph: Submit a 2×2-inch photo that meets US visa photo requirements.
Common mistakes to avoid
Even though the B-2 tourist visa may seem simple, small missteps can result in delays, denials, or trouble at the border. Here’s a quick breakdown of frequent issues and how to avoid them.
| Issue | Quick Fix |
| Lack of strong proof of ties to your home country | Bring documentation like employment letters, property deeds, proof of family ties, or evidence of ongoing studies to demonstrate nonimmigrant intent. |
| Vague or overly flexible travel plans | Provide a clear, realistic itinerary with dates, hotel reservations, or letters of invitation from US contacts. |
| Insufficient financial documentation | Show recent bank statements, proof of employment/income, or a sponsor letter if someone else is funding your trip. |
| Applying with intent to work or stay long-term | During the interview, be clear about your intent to visit the US and return home. |
| Incorrect or outdated DS-160 form | Always complete the current version of the DS-160 online. |
| Low-quality or incorrect photo | Follow US visa photo guidelines strictly, or use a professional visa photo service. Check that the size and background color meet the requirements. |
| Assuming approval guarantees entry | Understand that CBP makes the final call at the border, and be ready to explain your trip and provide supporting documents. |
| Booking non-refundable travel before visa approval | Wait until your visa is approved before finalizing flights or hotels to avoid financial losses in case of denial. |
Ready to apply?
Understanding the US tourist visa process is essential for a smooth and enjoyable trip. By carefully preparing your application, gathering the right documents, and knowing what to expect, you can increase your chances of receiving a visa and making the most of your trip to the US.
FAQs
How long can I stay in the US on a tourist visa?
The standard tourist visa grants up to six months per visit, as determined by the CBP officer at the port of entry.
Is travel insurance required for a tourist visa?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory, but it is a good idea to have it to cover any unexpected medical or travel-related issues. Medical care in the US can be extremely expensive.
What if my passport expires before my visa expires?
A valid US visa is valid until the expiration date, even if in an expired passport. You should present your valid visa in the expired passport, along with your new valid passport, for travel and admission.
Can I visit multiple US states on a tourist visa?
Yes. Once you are admitted, you may travel freely within the US during your stay.
What if I need to visit the US frequently?
If your travel pattern is consistent and for legitimate reasons, you may be eligible for a 10-year multiple-entry B-2 visa. However, immigration officers may question repeat entries if they suspect you are trying to live in the US.
Can I extend my tourist visa?
Extensions are possible, but not guaranteed. You must apply for an extension with US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before your visa expires, and provide a valid reason for the extension. Overstaying your visa can lead to serious consequences, including future visa denials.
What happens if my visa application is denied?
If your application is denied, you will be informed of the reason, and you can reapply if you can address the issue that led to the denial.
Do all travelers need a tourist visa?
No, citizens of countries under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) can enter the US for tourism without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. However, they must obtain authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before traveling.