A US visa interview can be nerve-wracking, especially for first-timers.
This process has had many individuals jumping from excitement to outer sobbing, depending on the interview’s aftermath.
To be on the better side of being granted a United States visa, here is a guide on preparing for a United States visa interview.
In this article, we will guide you on what you are required to do and the likely questions you will be asked on that day ensuring you are well-prepared and confident.
Pre-Interview Visa Interview Preparation
These are the necessary steps you should take before the visa interview with the US consulate
1. Review your appointment details
Reviewing the details of your appointment such as date, time and location can save you from arriving late and possibly rescheduling, cancelation, or visa denial.
A proper understanding of the interview details can make you prepare for any unexpected delays such as traffic, checkpoints, and availability of all required documents before the interview.
2. Ensure all the required and supporting documents are available
All required documents should be available in their original and photocopy before the interview date.
Required documents such as
- International Passport
- Visa application form (DS-200)
- Visa application receipt
- Birth and marriage certificates
- Medical examination results
- Proof of funds ( bank statements)
- Proof of home ties ( family pictures, businesses, employment letters, investments, political positions).
- Other supporting documents are invitation letters, academic transcripts, flight reservations, and travel itineraries.
3. Carefully Review your Application
It is not uncommon for individuals to seek the services of professionals when applying for a US visa.
However, it is necessary to cross-check the application to ensure all the information inserted in the application form is correct and can easily be reproduced during the visa interview when demanded.
4. Dress Professionally
There is a common idiom that says “Dress the way you want to be addressed”.
While going for a US visa interview, it is necessary to understand the interview will be conducted in an office building in a professional setting, it is required you stick to the dress code and ethics of a workplace setting.
Your dress should make a good impression on you to channel the focus to your application and not be a source of distraction or inconvenience.
Frequently Asked Questions During a Visa Interview
It is important to understand and rehearse on time, possible interview questions such as
- Personal information: Your full name, date of birth, address, and confirmation of spouses or parents will be asked while looking at your supporting documents. Your corresponding answers should be clear and concise.
- Purpose of Travel: You will be required to state the reasons why you wish to visit the United States based on the types of visits such as tourism/business (what places are you visiting and why or who are you meeting and why), family(proof or relationship, why and how long do you want to see them), study(proof of admission, what will you study, the reasons for the study, and how will you finance your education), medical (what medical institution, what treatment, and who will cover the expenses), or work visit (job offer, and role).
- Financial stability: Based on the submitted bank statements or other financial documents, you will be asked questions on how financially stable you can be during your stay if granted a visa.
- Ties to your Home Country: The United States government needs to ascertain whether you will return to your home country if granted a visa. To prove you will return, you have to show ties such as family relationships, businesses, investments, etc.
- Background: Certain questions and verification on your academic, work, previous travels, criminal history, and security concerns might be asked.
Tips for a Successful US Visa Interview
- Arrive at least 15-30 minutes earlier before your appointed time
- Answer all your questions honestly and truthfully
- Be clear, concise, brief, and straight to the point when asked a question
- Be relaxed and calm
- Listen attentively and carefully before corresponding to any questions
- Ask for clarification when needed before responding to any question or when asked to provide any additional document.
- If you have any disability or require an interpreter or any additional help, be sure to ask.
- Highlight your plans which should include an intent to return to your country and also your strong ties to family back home.