Travelling to the United States is popular among Indian nationals for leisure and professional purposes, with around 10 lakhs granted non-immigrant visas in 2024 (1). The B1/B2 visa, allowing multiple entries over ten years, necessitates thorough interview preparation. 

This non-immigrant visa facilitates temporary visits to the US for tourism or business, making it crucial to understand its intricacies.

US B1/B2 Visas are basically US tourist visas for individuals travelling to the United States for business (B1) or tourism/pleasure (B2) purposes. These visas are commonly issued together as they cover a broad spectrum of temporary visits to the US. 

The B1 visa is typically used for activities such as attending business meetings, conferences, or negotiating contracts, while the B2 visa is intended for tourism, vacations, or medical treatment. Both visas allow holders to stay in the US for a specified period, usually up to six months, and they do not grant the right to work or study in the country.

Below is a comprehensive list of 40 commonly asked interview questions, categorised for clarity, along with guidance on approaching your answers.

What is the purpose of your visit to the US?

You have to provide a specific answer to this question, stating the actual purpose of your visit to the country. For example, mention whether you are visiting your family and friends or for business purposes, etc

How long do you plan to stay in the United States?

Mention the number of months you will be there, for instance, six months or ten months, etc.

Where will you be staying in the United States?

Provide the exact address where you will be staying for that particular duration. Make sure the answer is accurate. This is because once the US B1B2 visa interview question and answer session is done, interviewers will cross-check this information.

Will it be a solo trip, or someone else will be joining you?

Provide the details and a complete picture of who will be going with you, and even if you are planning to go alone, mention the reason supporting that. If you are visiting your business associates and any of your employees are going with you, state all the details regarding that.

Can you provide evidence of your return from the US at the end of this period of stay?

Since B visa is solely dedicated to temporary visits, ensure the interviewers that you will be leaving the US once your work/vacation is done. While answering this question, also mention why a shorter period of stay will not be possible for you.

What assets do you own in your home country?

This is one of the common US visa questions for B1, and while answering this, include all the details of your commercial and residential properties, vehicles owned by you, etc.

Do you have any relatives staying in the US?

In case you have relatives residing in this country, mention their name and address for the same.

Do you have any dependents, such as children or elderly parents, in your home country?

Provide details about any dependents you may have and explain who will take care of them during your absence.

What is your marital status, and does your spouse accompany you on this trip?

Mention your marital status and clarify whether your spouse is accompanying you on the trip or staying behind.

Who is going to pay all your travelling and other bills?

Mention the person’s name who is going to bear all these expenses.

What does the person who is sponsoring your visit do for a living?

Mention the name of the organisation that he is currently working for, along with the designation and annual income. You must submit all the relevant documents to substantiate your answer, and the amount mentioned over there should correspond with the amount you mentioned in the visa.

How much will it cost you for the entire trip to the US?

This falls under the common b1/b2 visa interview questions. To answer it more precisely, make sure to create an itinerary for the trip, as that provides a clear picture of all the expenses you will have to bear. Note that even if you do not have a clear idea about the exact costs, a brief estimate will be required.

Do you have a credit card?

If you own a credit card, provide the details if required.

Can you provide evidence of your income and financial stability?

Submit documents such as bank statements, tax returns, and employment letters to demonstrate your financial stability.

Have you made any major financial transactions recently, such as property purchases or large investments?

Disclose any significant financial transactions and provide documentation to support your explanation.

What is your profession, and who do you work for?

Provide the details of the organisation you work for and state your job role and responsibilities. Remember, these details, along with your annual income, will be cross-checked by the consulate once the interview session is done.

Did you have to apply for leave to visit the US?

While answering such questions for US visa interview B1/B2, apart from clarifying whether you have applied for leave or not, submitting a copy of your leave application is also necessary.

Who will be taking care of your business when you are in the United States?

If you have transferred the responsibilities to someone, provide information about that person. And, in case you have not hired anyone, you can say that your partner will be looking after the business.

How long have you been employed with your current employer, and what is your role?

Provide details about your employment history and current job role, including the duration of your employment.

Will you be conducting any business activities while in the United States, and if so, what are they?

Describe any business-related activities you plan to undertake during your visit and provide details about their nature and purpose.

Which are the places you are planning to visit in the US?

Mention the details of your trip, including the hotels you will be staying at, things you are planning to do, etc.

Have you booked your tickets yet?

If already done, provide the booking details.

Have you travelled to the country before?

A simple ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ will be appropriate to answer that.

Why did you choose this particular time to go to the United States?

If you are in this country for business purposes, mention that your work demands this. If you are going there for a holiday, mention that the weather at that time of year will be appropriate for the trip or for any other legitimate reason.

Do you have any previous travel history to countries other than your home country?

Provide information about any international travel you have undertaken, including destinations and durations.

Have you purchased travel insurance for your trip to the United States?

Confirm whether you have obtained travel insurance for your trip and provide details about the coverage and policy.

Use these crucial pointers to prepare for your US B1/B2 visa interview. You must participate in this interview to prove your eligibility and reason for visiting the US temporarily. What you need to know:

• Be Prepared: Learn the most frequently asked interview questions for B1/B2 visas and prepare your answers in advance.

• Keep it Brief: Avoid including extra details in your responses and stick to the point.

• Be Honest: Give the interviewer accurate and truthful information.

• Highlight Links to your Native Country: To indicate that you intend to return, highlight how you are connected to your native country, such as through work, family, or property ownership.

• Remain Composed and Confident: Show that you are prepared for travel by remaining composed throughout the interview and providing assured answers to questions.

• Dress Appropriately: Dress professionally for the interview to make a good impression.

• Bring Any Necessary Paperwork: Ensure that all necessary paperwork, including supporting documents, visa applications, and passports, is prepared and ready to be presented.

• Observe the Guidelines: Respond closely to the interviewer's instructions and questions, then adjust your response accordingly.

As you prepare for your B1/B2 USA visa interview, it's essential to keep these pointers in mind to ensure a successful outcome. By familiarising yourself with common questions and following these tips, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the interview with confidence and ease. Best of luck on your journey to securing your B1/B2 visa.

To schedule a B1/B2 visa interview for the United States in India, follow these steps:

1. Determine the Appropriate Visa Type

Ensure that the B1/B2 visa aligns with your travel purpose. The B1 visa is for business-related travel, while the B2 visa is for tourism or visiting family and friends.

2. Complete the DS-160 Form

Fill out the DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form accurately.

3. Create a Profile on the Visa Appointment System

Visit usvisascheduling.com to create a new account. If you had an account on the previous system (ustraveldocs.com), you must migrate your account to the new platform. 

4. Pay the Visa Application Fee

After logging into your profile, follow the instructions to pay the non-refundable visa application fee. Payment methods and instructions will be provided during this process.

5. Schedule Your Visa Interview Appointment

Once the payment is processed, you can schedule your visa interview. Due to high demand, B1/B2 visa appointment wait times can be lengthy. As of early 2025, wait times in various Indian cities are as follows:

• Hyderabad: 429 days

• Kolkata: 436 days

• Mumbai: 438 days

• New Delhi: 441 days

• Chennai: 479 days

To mitigate long wait times, consider checking for appointments at different consulates or embassies within India or neighbouring countries.

6. Prepare for the Interview

Gather all necessary documents, including a valid passport, DS-160 confirmation page, visa fee payment receipt, appointment confirmation letter and supporting documents such as proof of ties to India, financial statements, and any other documents relevant to your visa application.

7. Attend the Visa Interview

Arrive at the designated U.S. Embassy or Consulate on time for your interview. Be prepared to answer questions about travel plans, employment, and ties to your home country.

No, you cannot attend a B1/B2 visa interview online. You must appear at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate for a visa interview. You can schedule an appointment online or by calling the call centre.

No, you cannot attend a B1/B2 visa interview online. You must appear at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate for a visa interview. You can schedule an appointment online or by calling the call centre.

Only some B1/B2 visa applicants need to attend an in-person interview. Some applicants may qualify for an Interview Waiver Program, which allows them to drop off required documents at a designated location instead of attending an interview. 

However, only some applicants who apply with an interview will receive a visa. If an officer has questions about an application, they may contact the applicant to schedule an interview.

As you prepare for your B1/B2 USA visa interview, it's essential to keep these pointers in mind to ensure a successful outcome. By familiarising yourself with common questions and following these tips, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the interview with confidence and ease. Best of luck on your journey to securing your B1/B2 visa.