Visitor Visa - B2

We have lot of posts here regarding experiences in India, especially for parents. We had renewed our B2 visa through post. Our daughter was not 10 printed during her earlier visa issue as she was only seven. Hence, she had to attend the in person interview. DS160 form was created in July 2024 and the original visa interview was in Nov 2025. In Aug 2024, we got an email from CEAC saying that we are eligible for expedited appointment and slots were available from Feb 2025. We chose 24 April 2025 slot considering my daughter school and entrance examinations. Our visa interview was with Abu Dhabi embassy. We were self-sponsored and had invitation from my brother-in-law. We are planning for summer vacation in USA.

Few points which can be useful to those applying from Abu Dhabi
1. Finger printing is done on the same day as that of visa interview. No separate appointment for the same. We did not book our flight tickets. We did not go through tour operators.
2. Process is well organized and it takes 4 hours to complete. Be patient to stand in the queue for most of the time.
3. Parking is available opposite to embassy and it is bit crowded during morning.
4. No bags are allowed. Mobiles and car key with auto lock to be deposited.
5. For below 18 interview, only one of the parents are allowed to accompany the child.
6. Abu Dhabi also can have traffic issues in the morning, so start with sufficient margin. Security guard at the entrance told that they allow early entry and do not stick to exact appointment time. Also, if you are late they are accommodative.
7. Take your original passport with US visa as well as the old passports with US visa for your child.

After security screening at security office, applicants are allowed in batches to the embassy. After entering embassy our DS160, passport details are checked and finger printing is completed. The document checking person asked for my US visa, expired visa for my daughter and entered the visa number in the system. No other supporting documents are checked.

Visa interview is conducted in the counter located in the waiting room i.e. in the same hall. We could hear the questions asked and there were quite a few refusals as well. There were only two VOs (both men) taking interviews. Majority of the cases where there was prior travel history abroad, clear intent of travel as tourism and proper job were given the approvals. For B2, when there is no prior abroad travel history, there were refusals, saying apply again.

We: Good morning, Sir.
VO: Good morning. Who is applying for the visa.
Me: My daughter, I have already US visa.
VO: Can I see your visa
Me: I am taking my passport with visa. Meanwhile, VO continues
VO: Have you been to US before?
My Daughter: Yes, in 2015.
VO: Why are you going to US?
My Daughter: We are going for tourism.
Meanwhile, I give my passport with B2 visa.
VO: Took my passport and checked the visa.
Have you travelled abroad before ?.
My Daughter: Yes, I have travelled to UK, France, Germany, Switzerland, Canada, Georgia and Oman.
VO: What are you doing now?
My Daughter: I just graduated from 12th grade and planning to go to college.
VO: How about college?
My Daughter: I am already admitted to XXXX, Delhi, with 100 % tuition waiver and will be joining in July 2025.
Me: We have already paid the registration fees of 2100 USD.
(My Daughter had already offer of admission from different US universities and we were not planning to go to US for undergrad. We did not mention anything about this, as per plan.)
VO: Oh, that’s a good one. Have you been to Delhi ?
My Daughter : Yes, that time I was a child and I don’t remember much.
VO: New Delhi is a big city and you will have a nice time there.
VO: Where did you graduate from
My Daughter: XXX international private school, Ruwais.
VO: Typed the school name or something ………
After this the VO, gave my passport back and gave the white slip (approved), kept my daughter’s passport.

Enjoy your trip, you will get an email in 2-3 days about passport collection. We said Thank you and left.

VO did not ask for any of the supporting documents. We were prepared with Salary certificate, Bank statement for 6 months, Marriage certificate, Birth certificate, Degree certificate, Old US, Schengen visas, Invitation letter from my brother-in-law, my brother-in-law’s identification documents & address proof.
Checked status in CEAC site same day. it was showing approved. Next day mine changed to ISSUED in the afternoon. She got 10 year multiple entry B1/B2 visa with the new golden gate bridge design visa stamp.

Overall it was a pleasant experience.

My under 14 years old daughter and son had a B1/B2 visa interview. Following are visa interview questions with answers.

We: Good Morning
VO: Good Morning

VO: Can I have passports
Me: I gave passports to her

VO: Can I have copy of your visa
Me: I gave copy of visa

VO: Why do they want to visit US
Me: The purpose of my children's visit to US is for Tourism for two weeks

VO: Which places they will visit
Me: They will visit New York and Alburtis

VO: Do you have friends and relatives in US
Me: Yes my cousin lives their

VO: Have you been to US before
Me: Yes once

VO: Have you visited any country before with family
Me: Yes Malaysia

VO: How many children's you have
Me: Three

VO: Is your wife travelling with you
Me: No

VO asked my daughter, which school you are attending, which grade you are in and how old are you
She replied questions correctly & confidently

VO ask my son, which school you are attending, which grade you are in, how old are you and who is this guy
He replied questions correctly & confidently

During interview VO continuously keeps typing.....

VO: Visa is approved, you will receive passports within 14 days
Me: Thank you very much

Interview lasted for 5 minutes.

My experience is you or family members have to give answers of all questions truly and honestly in order to qualify for visa. Dress well, do not get nervous, maintain eye contact with visa officer during interview, keep smile on your face, must be respectful while talking.

Confidence through positivity and honesty & be prepared to discuss ties to your home country.

I filled the DS-160. Now do I have to wait for an email as confirmation that they received DS-160 or can I go ahead and pay the visa fees? Could someone please provide the link for paying tourist visa fees?

I submitted my Visitor Visa application on March 1, 2024, and have scheduled my appointment for September 20, 2025. I understand the importance of keeping my application current and would like to update my DS-160 form every three months.

Could you please advise me, whether I need to update DS-160 for every three months.
Thanks
Venkatesan

Introduction:

Are you ready to explore the vast beauty of Canada? From the majestic Rockies to the vibrant city life in Vancouver, Canada offers a diverse range of experiences. Begin your visa application today and get ready to discover the unique charm of the Great White North. Your Canadian adventure awaits!

What are the kinds of Visa Available?

Canadian visas are of two kinds, Temporary and Permanent Visas:

1. Visitor Visa / Temporary Resident Visa (TRV):

Granted for tourism, family visits, or business-related purposes.

Typically issued until the validity of the passport.

Canada Tourist Visa:

Required for individuals visiting for tourism purposes, including family visits or exploration.

Canada Business Visa:

Necessary for those planning professional activities such as business meetings, conferences, or business expansion.

2. Work Visa:

Allows individuals to work temporarily in Canada for up to 6 months.

After the allotted period, individuals must return home or apply for an extension.

3. Study Visa:

Issued to students attending courses in Canada with a duration exceeding 6 months.

These temporary visas cater to various purposes, ensuring that visitors, business professionals, workers, and students have the appropriate authorization for their stay in Canada.

4. Transit visa:

Not only do people traveling to Canada for any duration need a Canada Visa, but people passing through the country during their journey are also required to have a Canada Transit Visa. This rule applies to Indian citizens as well.

WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF ENTRY?

Single Entry Visa:

This type of visa permits a one-time visit to Canada for a duration of six months. Foreign nationals are allowed a single entry only with this visa.

Multiple Entry Visa:

A Multiple Entry visa enables multiple visits to Canada within the visa's validity period, ranging from 3 to 6 months. While this visa allows leisure and tourism travel throughout Canada.

Validity of Different Canada Visas:

1. Canada Visitor/ Tourist Visa

   Validity: Six months

2. Canada Transit Visa:

   Validity: 48 hours

3. Canada Work Permit:

   Validity: The duration of your employment contract with an organization in Canada

4. Canada Permanent Visa:

   Validity: 5 years as printed on your Permanent Resident Card (renewability is permitted)

5. Student Visa:

   Validity: Up to 5 years from the date of issuance or until passport expiry, whichever comes first.

How Do I Apply?

Online Application Process for Canada Visa:

Determine the type of Canada visa you require, such as a work permit, a student permit, or a tourist visa

Application for Visitor Visa (Temporary resident Visa) – IMM 5257

Application for Temporary Residence – IMM 5257 Schedule 1

Family Information Form – IMM 5645

Create an account on the IRCC website.

Initiate the online application separately for each applicant.

Upload required documents.

Pay fees through the IRCC portal using any major credit/ debit cards

Schedule a Biometrics appointment at the nearest VFS Global center.

If you are in the United States, you may go to a USCIS Application Support Center (ASC) or a Visa Application Centre (VAC).

Track the application status of your tourist visa on the IRCC portal.

Note:

While Canada visa applications for Indians can be done online via the IRCC portal or offline using Form IMM 5645, the online process is more reliable, as offline applications are cumbersome and often face higher rejection rates.

Note: Our dedicated team can help you with the proper and form filing fee payment if you choose to apply through Documitra.

What Documents are Required?

Documents Required for Canada Tourist Visa Application:

USA:

1. Passport Copies (both)

2. State issued ID/ DL (USA)

3. Proof of Funds:

Bank statements (both)

4. Cover Letter

5. Letter of Invitation (if visiting family or friends)

If trip is sponsored by invitee- Evidence of income for your host in Canada

6. Travel Itinerary (if any):

Complete itinerary with copies of roundtrip air tickets- if available

INDIA:

1. Passport Copies

2. Identity card (Aadhaar card for Indians)

3. Proof of Funds:

Bank statements

Tax filing for the past three years

5. Cover Letter

6. Letter of Invitation (if visiting family or friends)

If trip is sponsored by invitee- Evidence of income for your host in Canada

7. Travel Itinerary (if any):

Complete itinerary with copies of roundtrip air tickets- if available

Note: Our dedicated team can help you with the proper document list if you choose to apply through Documitra according to your particular case.

Additional Required Documents for Minor Children Traveling to Canada:

Parent’s passport copies

Birth certificate of minor

Permission for the minor to travel to Canada (as applicable)

Custody papers - if any

Adoption papers - if any

Any other specific documents as required

What is the Fee Requirement?

Application Fee: 100 CAD or ₹6195 (not applicable for Transit visas)

Biometrics Fee: 85 CAD or ₹5266

Note: The fee in INR is subject to fluctuations in the current exchange rate and is susceptible to change at any time. Additionally, please note that the fee is non-refundable, irrespective of the approval or denial of your visa application.

Canadian Visitor Visa processing time:

It takes approximately 40 to 60 days to get the stamped passport from the Canadian Consulate.

What are the Major Tourist attractions in CANADA?

Canada, the second-largest country in the world, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. Here's a snapshot of some major tourist attractions in Canada:

1. Banff National Park (Alberta):

Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, Banff offers turquoise lakes, charming Banff town, and scenic mountain hikes.

2. Niagara Falls (Ontario):

Iconic natural wonder, Niagara Falls mesmerizes with its powerful cascade. Explore Clifton Hill and the Butterfly Conservatory.

3. Vancouver (British Columbia):

Coastal city with urban sophistication and outdoor adventures. Stanley Park, Granville Island, and historic neighborhoods await.

4. Quebec City (Quebec):

UNESCO World Heritage site with cobblestone streets, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, and vibrant Place Royale.

5. Rocky Mountains (Alberta and British Columbia):

Awe-inspiring scenery in the Canadian Rockies. Visit Jasper, Columbia Icefield, and drive the Icefields Parkway.

6. CN Tower (Toronto, Ontario):

Toronto skyline symbol, CN Tower offers panoramic views, Glass Floor, revolving restaurant, and thrilling EdgeWalk.

7. Whistler (British Columbia):

World-class ski resort turned into a year-round destination. Explore Whistler Village, Peak 2 Peak Gondola, and alpine activities.

8. Parliament Hill (Ottawa, Ontario):

Political and cultural heart of Canada. Witness Changing of the Guard, explore historic buildings, and enjoy Rideau Canal views.

9. Bay of Fundy (New Brunswick and Nova Scotia):

Experience world's highest tides. Explore coastal landscapes, go whale watching, and witness dramatic tidal changes.

10. Montreal (Quebec):

Vibrant and cosmopolitan city known for festivals, diverse cuisine, and cultural events. Explore Old Montreal and attend the Jazz Festival.

Canada's attractions span from coast to coast, offering a diverse range of experiences for travelers seeking natural beauty, cultural richness, and urban sophistication.

In conclusion, the application process doesn't have to be a puzzle. With our interactive guide, we've tried to simplify steps to ensure a seamless process for you. You can follow it for a complete Do-It-Yourself experience.

But if you want to have a hassle-free experience of application, Choose Documitra! We will take care of your application needs and our expert team will guide you through it, ensuring a higher chance of success.

I am 52 years old, not married. and working IT industrial for 20 years. Visted 9 countries for IT project.

my friend is a green card holder, He is inviting me for vocation. I am planning to visit for 2 weeks.

What is chance for getting approval for Tourist visa.

Inspite of a valid visa I couldn’t travel to USA due to preoccupied issues.
Issued in the year 2016, valid till 2025.
I need to re apply or renewal to be done.
Someone told that if I don’t travel within a period of 3 years from the date of issue of visa I need to inform the embassy? Is it so or any specific rules pl

vo:- why do want to visit to USA ?
me:- to attend our uncle's daughter's wedding and after that we have some plans to explore the city , visit universal studio, Hollywood peak.

vo:- how long are u gonna stay in USA ?
me:- 8 days after that we have to come back because we building our new house.

vo:- where are going in USA?-
me:- in Los angels state California

vo:- how do you know him?
me:- I have known him since I was kid.

vo:- what do he do in USA ?
me;- he owns six subway burger restaurants

vo:- i am sorry you visa is refused.
please anyone can tell why my visa got refused. i wanted to know the reason.

Hi, Please advice on primary occupation and previous employed fields for father

I was filling DS-160 for father, he used to work in family business until 2009, now he just get some interest income for relatives and he also has agriculture land, houses, and rental properties. what should i chose for primary occupation and previous employed fields?

Primary - Retired?
Previously - Self Employed in family business , in the bottom section Has agriculture land, rental shops, interest income ?

Hi, we are planning to travel to India soon for personal reasons which cannot be avoided. But we have my In-laws B2 visa interview schedule during the same time. Is it ok or will there be any issue. Pleas advise.