17 Jun, 2025
US Visa for Indians: A Complete Guide for Kerala Travelers in 2025
The United States remains one of the top international destinations for Indian travelers—whether it’s for tourism, education, work, or family visits. With cities like New York, San Francisco, and Chicago, along with iconic landmarks, global universities, and vibrant culture, the US offers something for everyone. For travelers from Kerala, visiting the US is an exciting opportunity, often included in many International Tour Packages From Kerala. But before you book your tickets and pack your bags, understanding the US visa process for Indians is essential. This 2025 guide is here to simplify your journey, especially if you’re applying from Kerala.
1. Do Indians Need a Visa to Travel to the US?
Yes, all Indian citizens require a visa to enter the United States, regardless of the purpose or duration of their visit. There are different types of US visas depending on your travel purpose:- Tourist Visa (B2)
- Business Visa (B1)
- Student Visa (F1/M1)
- Work Visa (H1B, L1, etc.)
- Transit Visa (C/D)
- Exchange Visitor Visa (J1)
2. Types of US Visas for Indian Travelers
Here are the primary visa types relevant to Kerala travelers:- B2 Tourist Visa – For tourism, medical treatment, or visiting friends/family.
- B1 Business Visa – For attending meetings, conferences, or trade events.
- F1 Student Visa – For students accepted by US academic institutions.
- H1B Work Visa – For professionals with a job offer from a US employer.
- L1 Intra-company Transfer Visa – For employees transferring within a multinational company.
3. US Visa Requirements for Indians
To apply for a US visa from Kerala, ensure you prepare the following:- A valid passport (minimum 6 months validity beyond the stay in the US)
- Recent passport-sized photo (as per US visa photo specifications)
- DS-160 confirmation page (online application form)
- Visa appointment confirmation
- Payment receipt of visa fee
- Supporting documents based on visa type:
- Travel itinerary (for tourists)
- Invitation letter (if visiting family/friends)
- Proof of financial stability (bank statements, ITR)
- Employment or business proof
- Academic records (for student visa)
- SEVIS fee payment (for F1 applicants)
4. How to Apply for a US Visa from Kerala
The US visa application involves a step-by-step process:Step 1: Fill Out DS-160 Form
Visit the official US visa website and complete the DS-160 form online with accurate personal, travel, and employment details.Step 2: Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the MRV (Machine Readable Visa) fee—typically $185 (approx. ₹15,400) for B1/B2 visas. Fees vary by visa type.Step 3: Schedule Appointments
You must schedule two appointments:- VAC (Visa Application Center) – For biometrics and photo capture
- US Embassy/Consulate Interview – In-person interview with a visa officer
Step 4: Attend the Appointments
- Carry all required documents
- Be honest and confident during the visa interview
- You’ll be notified of visa status within a few working days
5. US Visa Fees for Indian Citizens (2025)
Here’s an overview of current US visa costs for Indian applicants:| Visa Type | Fee (in USD) | Fee (in INR approx.) |
| B1/B2 | $185 | ₹15,400 |
| F1 (Student) | $185 | ₹15,400 |
| H1B (Work) | $205 | ₹17,100 |
| L1 (Intra Co) | $205 | ₹17,100 |
6. US Visa Processing Time
- B1/B2 Visa: 7 to 15 working days (interview wait times may vary)
- F1 Student Visa: Issued after the SEVIS approval, usually within 7-10 days post-interview
- Work Visas (H1B, L1): May take several weeks to months, depending on petition approval
7. Common Reasons for US Visa Rejection
Avoid these common issues to increase your approval chances:- Incomplete or inaccurate application
- Insufficient financial documents
- Weak travel intent or unclear itinerary
- Past visa denials or overstays
- Lack of ties to India (no job, family, or education commitments)
8. Tips for a Successful US Visa Application
Here’s how travelers from Kerala can improve their success rate:- Fill out the DS-160 form carefully; avoid typos
- Carry all original documents and copies
- Be confident and truthful during the interview
- Show clear ties to India (job, property, family, etc.)
- Consult authorized travel or visa agents in Kochi, Calicut, or Trivandrum if needed
9. US Visa Interview: What to Expect
The visa interview is often the most important part of the US visa process. Many first-time applicants from Kerala worry about what questions will be asked. Here’s what you need to know:Common Interview Questions:
- What is the purpose of your visit to the United States?
- How long do you intend to stay?
- Do you have any relatives or friends in the US?
- What do you do for a living in India?
- Who will bear the expenses of your trip?
- Have you traveled internationally before?
Tips to prepare:
- Answer confidently and honestly.
- Keep your answers clear and brief.
- Avoid giving too much unnecessary detail.
- Dress formally and maintain a positive attitude.
- Carry all relevant documents in an organized folder.
10. Travel Insurance and Flight Booking Tips for US Trips
While not a mandatory document for B1/B2 visas, having valid travel insurance and tentative flight bookings shows that you’re well-prepared.Travel Insurance:
Choose a plan that:- Covers medical emergencies and hospital visits
- Includes baggage loss or flight cancellation
- Offers coverage of at least USD 50,000
Flight Booking Tips:
- Always go for a refundable or hold-ticket option when applying for a visa.
- Avoid fully booking hotels or tours before visa approval.
- Compare flights using aggregators like Skyscanner, MakeMyTrip, or Google Flights.
Bonus Tip for Kerala Travelers
There are many experienced visa consultants in Ernakulam, Trivandrum, and Kozhikode who can help you with the DS-160 form, documentation, and interview practice. However, always choose authorized agents who follow US consulate guidelines.Final Thoughts
Securing a US visa for Indians in 2025 is a structured process that, with the right planning, becomes much easier. Whether you’re from Kerala and planning a family vacation, pursuing education, or exploring career opportunities, understanding the US visa process is your first step. The US continues to be a dream destination for many, and with this guide, you’re one step closer to making that dream a reality. From filling out the DS-160 to attending your consulate interview, staying informed and prepared is key. FAQs- Do Indians need a visa to visit the US in 2025? Yes, Indian citizens must apply for a visa before traveling to the United States.
- What documents are required for a US tourist visa? Valid passport, photo, DS-160 form, fee receipt, financial proof, itinerary, and visa appointment confirmations.
- How much is the US tourist visa fee in INR? As of 2025, the B1/B2 visa costs approximately ₹15,400.
- Where can Keralites apply for a US visa? Applicants from Kerala can apply online and attend interviews at the US Consulate in Chennai.
- How early should I apply for a US visa? Apply at least 4–6 weeks in advance to accommodate biometric and interview appointments.
Jaleel Mankarathodi, Chairman and Managing Director of Green Oasis , is a travel industry expert with 14+ years of experience. Specializing in international trips, Jaleel has built Green Oasis into a trusted name in sustainable tourism worldwide.
