USA Visa Checklist
Every document you'll need — explained. Check items off as you gather them. Your progress saves automatically.
Primary identity document. Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay.
Format: Original. Must have at least 2 blank pages.
Online visa application form. Every applicant must complete this on the CEAC portal.
Format: Printed confirmation page with barcode. Must match your passport exactly.
Proof of payment of the non-refundable visa application fee.
Format: Printed receipt from the payment system (ais.usvisa-info.com).
Biometric photograph meeting US Embassy specifications.
Format: 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51mm), white background, taken within the last 6 months, no glasses.
Proof of financial capacity to fund your trip and return home.
Format: Original bank-stamped statements or certified print from your bank. 3 months minimum, 6 months preferred.
Shows you have financial stability and a reason to return home.
Format: Original employer letter on company letterhead: job title, salary, approved leave dates.
Corroborates your employment letter and shows consistent income.
Format: Original or company-certified copies.
Demonstrates that you have a specific, planned trip — not an open-ended stay.
Format: Printed day-by-day plan: cities, activities, accommodation addresses.
Confirms you have accommodation arranged — you are not relying on an extended stay with family.
Format: Printed hotel booking confirmation with dates and full address.
Official document from your US institution confirming your enrollment and program.
Format: Original signed I-20 issued by your school's PDSO/DSO.
Proof of payment of the mandatory Student and Exchange Visitor Information System fee.
Format: Printed receipt from fmjfee.com. Must be paid at least 3 business days before your interview.
Confirms you have been officially admitted to a US academic institution.
Format: Official letter on university letterhead.
This is the most important non-financial document. Proves you will return home after your trip.
Format: Employment contract, land title deed, property lease, or family registration documents.
Confirms your departure date and reduces concern about overstaying.
Format: Printed booking confirmation showing outbound AND return flights.
Formal confirmation from your US contact that you are visiting them.
Format: Signed letter with: their full name, address, relationship to you, dates of your visit, and a copy of their US status (passport/green card/visa).
Prior international travel history, especially to the US, UK, Canada, or Europe, significantly strengthens your application.
Format: All previous passports, even expired ones.