Secure Your Visa To Dream Country
America – the land of dreams!!!!
With huge state-by-state diversity, the country is a hidden gem for explorers, not just for dreamers and opportunists.
Why?
Historical interest, Hiking, wildlife, lavish beaches, vibrant cities, diverse culture- no matter what your interest is, the USA has something to offer you.
Can’t wait to see the iconic land of the Statue of Liberty? Let us confess something – Getting your US Visa from Bangladesh will be the biggest challenge of your trip.
It takes time to fill out the visa form, pay fees, gather documents… and, most importantly, get a convenient appointment for a US visa interview.
There is a lot of research, preparation, patience, and practice required to attend the visa interview with the US Embassy in Dhaka! It’s the most powerful visa you may have on your passport, so you can’t just attend unprepared.
Sounds a huge hectic process?
If you are applying for a US visa for the first time, this guide will surely help you make your application as smooth as possible.
Step 1: Fill in the Non-immigrant Visa Application Form DS-160
The first step in applying for a US visa is to fill out the DS-160 form.
The DS160 visa form includes questions about your personal information, education, employment details, travel history, immigration history, travel plans, family details, and more. It will also ask if you are involved with social or charitable organizations.
Fun fact:
The form is so detailed that it even asks you about your social media identifiers. Using Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, TikTok, etc.? You need to put this information on the visa form as well.
All applicants must complete the DS-160 form separately, even if multiple applicants from the same family apply together. Each visa form is so detailed that you might need multiple days to plan and complete it.
Provide honest information on your form. Any false information could lead to the denial of your application or even a further ban on future applications. Remember, Visa Officers are well-trained to identify lies!
Step 2: Pay Your Application Fee with Eastern Bank Limited (EBL)
After completing the form (successfully), you will receive a DS160 confirmation number.
Now you need to open a CGI Federal profile with your details and the DS160 confirmation number received.
After you enter the required information, the system will generate an invoice for you to pay the applicable visa fees. It’s $160 per candidate, converted into BDT (approx. 17280 BDT now).
Yes, coming to the payment method.
To pay the visa fee, you must visit any Eastern Bank Limited (EBL) branch with the invoice and a copy of your passport. The bank officials will receive the money and stamp on your receipt.
If you need assistance in depositing the visa fee, please feel free to contact us. We can help you with this, too.
Step 3: Schedule a Visa Interview Appointment with the US Embassy in Dhaka
After paying your application fee, you must schedule an in-person interview at the US Embassy in Dhaka. You can schedule the interview from the CGI Federal website after 24 hours of paying the fee.
But there is bad news.
Currently, the waiting time for visa interviews is long, approx. 8-18 months. If you need an urgent interview, you can apply for an emergency interview if you meet the requirements.
Currently, you can apply for an expedited appointment for emergency medical and business reasons.
Once you schedule an interview, you can reschedule it twice (it used to be unlimited, but the rule changed in 2022). So, make sure you don’t cancel and reschedule your visa interview unnecessarily.
Step 4: Gather All The Documents
Before the interview, you need to collect all of the necessary documents.
Though the US Embassy in Dhaka doesn’t normally ask for any documents except your passport, you should still be prepared if they want to see them.
The document might include a visa photo (if your uploaded photo is more than 6 months old), proof of financial resources (bank statements, asset details, tax documents), proof of ties to your home country (employment letter/ trade license), civil documents (marriage certificate/ birth certificate of babies, etc), and property documents, etc.
Check the detailed document checklist below.
Step 5: Attend the Visa Interview Well Prepared
On the day of the interview, attend the visa interview fully prepared. Review all documents associated with your application and understand their purpose and how they relate to one another.
Here is a secret to overcoming the fear of facing the interview…….
Be prepared to answer questions about why you want to visit the US, how long you plan on staying, how you will support yourself, and your professional details.
Remember, CONFIDENCE is the key.
The most important part of the interview is demonstrating your strong ties to home and the reason for returning to Bangladesh.
Family members in Bangladesh, with good financial and career standing, immovable assets, etc., are considered as your home ties.
We help our clients with well interview preparation, sorting their positive highlights, and how they can demonstrate the same to a visa officer, and finally listen to those magical words – ‘I am approving your visa!’
If you are doing the interview preparation yourself, always focus on your strengths and plan how you can showcase them.
Step 6: Receive Your Passport
The visa officer will inform you about the decision during the interview, whether it’s successful or not.
If they approve your visa, they will hand you a green slip confirming approval. If they refuse, they will give you a refusal letter with generic reasons for the visa refusal, which is mostly a 214 (b) refusal.
If you are approved, the visa officer will take your passport for further processing. Once processed, your passport will be delivered within 7 working days via VFS Global Dhaka. You will receive an email from the embassy when your passport is ready for delivery.
There is also a case-tracking website to monitor the application process.
Remember, not all passports are processed with the same timeline. Some applications take extra time to verify and process, so don’t panic. If you were truthful in the whole process, you will likely receive your passport with a visa stamp, even if it’s delayed.
B1 or B2? Which One Should You Choose?
B-1 Visa
If you want to do one of the following:
- Attending a conference
- Consult with business associates,
- Negotiate a business contract in the US
- Settle an estate
You can apply for a US visa under the B1 category.
B-2 Visa
If you’re a tourist on vacation, attending a family program, or seeking medical treatment in the US, you should apply for a tourist visa under the B-2 category.
If you are puzzled by categorization, there is good news. The US Embassy in Dhaka normally issues tourist visas with both B1/B2 categories, even if you apply for a particular one. Also, if you are unsure which to choose, you can select both B1/B2 when applying, or be specific based on your circumstances.
Documents for the US Visa from Bangladesh
There is no set of documents required from the embassy. You should bring documents that might prove your bona fides as a visitor to the US and demonstrate strong home ties/incentives for you to return to Bangladesh.
The consular officers at the US Embassy in Dhaka don’t normally ask applicants for any documents other than their passports. However, we still recommend that applicants bring the necessary documents if the Consular Officer requests them.
So, what documents should you bring?
Mandatory Documents
- Current Original Passport
- All old passports
- Appointment Confirmation
- DS-160 Confirmation Page
- Visa Fee Receipt (EBL payment receipt)
- Recent Passport-Size Photo (white background only) if you submitted your DS-160 6+ months ago.
Additional Documentation you might bring:
- Employment Proofs (if employed)
- Employment Letter / NOC
- Last 3 Months Payslips
- Tax Returns
- Student Proofs, Letters from University, ID Card, Recent results, transcripts, or diplomas (if student)
- Business Proofs, Business Registration, Business Bank Statements, Import/Export Certificate (if business owner)
- Conference tickets (If attending a conference)
- Wedding invitations (If attending a wedding)
- Training Confirmations (For participating in training)
- Recent 6 Months Personal Bank Statements
- Evidence that you will return to your home country
- Property deeds and other supporting documents
- Civil documents (Marriage certificate/ Baby birth certificates)
- G.O (Government Order) for Official Passport
- BMDC Certificate for Doctor
- BAR Council Certificate for Advocate
- Retirement Documents for Retired Persons
If Sponsored:
- Sponsor Documentation (if sponsored)
- Sponsor’s ID copySponsor’s Employment Proof
Filling Up DS160: Tips For First Timers
When completing the DS-160 online, save your progress every couple of minutes. The form times out often. It’s very unlikely that you will be able to complete the form in one go.
You must save your Application ID Number from the beginning so that you can retrieve the saved information once it times out. That way, you won’t have to start from scratch if the system logs you out during the process!
You can complete your Form DS-160 at your own pace, as long as you save your progress. Plus, you’re given a generous 30-day period to return and complete any incomplete applications.
It’s very important to:
- Remember your application number and security question.
- Be patient with timeouts, as you might face this every couple of minutes
- Have your information and passport readily available
- Make sure you have a reliable internet connection to avoid the hassle
- Make sure your photograph meets the criteria set by the consulate
- If you have a previous refusal, have your old DS160 form ready. You might need to cross-check the information you provided previously.
Put Social Media Identifiers Correctly
You must provide information about all social media you have used within the last five years. You are not required to provide the password, though.
Confused about what a social media identifier is?
It’s just the name you used on media accounts.
If your name is ‘Kaniz Karim’ on Facebook, just put ‘Kaniz Karim’ in the information box.
You will get a list of social media sites on the form, starting from Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, or YouTube. If you are a member of any other social media site that’s not listed on the form, you can select ‘Other’ and put the additional information there.
Keep it simple, but BE TRUTHFUL.
How to Fill DS160 for Family Members?
Each family member applying for a visa to the United States must submit an individual DS-160 Form.
You can file as a family applicant after completing the primary applicant’s DS-160. When you submit the main applicant’s form, select “Email Confirmation” on the final page and click on the “Thank You” page that will appear next.
On this page, you’ll find an option to create a family application for all dependents included in your application! If you choose this option, some of your application information will be automatically imported into the new DS-160. You must complete the process, and each family member or individual within the group must submit their own applications.
You can also fill out a separate DS-160 for each family member and bring the DS-160 confirmation page on your interview date.
Tips for a US Visa Interview at the US Embassy in Dhaka
1. Dress Well:
Basic but trust us- it makes a difference.
Dress professionally for your interview. Don’t wear jeans and t-shirts if you are attending the interview as a business owner. The attire of the day should reflect your social circumstances well.
While we recommend you to be really well dressed, don’t get overdressed in a way that makes you uncomfortable in front of the visa officer.
2. There is a Security Protocol; show up early:
All visitors inside the US embassy in Dhaka must follow strict security protocols.
Obvious, isn’t it?
No arguing with guards or trying to sneak through entrance checks! You need to follow an entry line. The security officers will ask you questions, see your interview appointment and passport, do body checks, and then let you in.
Ensure you have no electronic devices (including cell phones and smart watches). You need to leave these items at home or bring someone with you to carry them outside the embassy.
Not to mention…….
There is always a long queue in front of the US Embassy in Dhaka, so consider showing up early on the day of your interview.
3. Be Respectful and Honest
Remember to be respectful during the interview. Always remain polite. Avoid interrupting them during conversations or shouting answers during interviews!
And, of course, try not to give false answers to anything asked. Honesty is always appreciated and rewarded.
U.S. visa officers are highly trained to spot lies and understand that you are saying something that someone made you remember and made up for you!
4. Be Confident
Being confident during the US visa interview helps. We would suggest maintaining a confident posture and speaking slowly and intelligently.
Maintain direct eye contact with the visa officer to gauge their reaction and be convincing.
If you don’t understand the question asked, politely ask the visa officer to repeat it. Do not modify your past answers if you are not asked.
5. Answer What’s Asked, and What Might Help You
Be straightforward and concise when answering a question.
Only answer the information required and nothing else. Unnecessary extra details can lead to additional queries, and you may fall into trouble.
Some might get very confused and present very small answers. Don’t do it; it’s always better to be elaborate and not have visa officers ask question after question. They don’t have time to ask 20 questions to know your circumstances.
You might only get 2-4 questions at most, so use the opportunity to highlight all your positive points in your answers.
Pro Tips: Identify your key strengths well before the interview and try to present them to the visa officer.
Some Common Questions Asked During the US Visa Interview
You can expect to answer several questions during your US B1/B2 visa interview. The questions could be from your DS-160 form or may be from outside. Some of the common questions include:
- Why do you want to go to the US?
- How long do you plan to stay in the US?
- Have you been to the US before?
- Have you been to other countries?
- What do you do for a living?
- Where do you want to visit?
- What do you do?
- What Visa are you seeking?
- Why do you want to travel to the USA?
- Why do you want to visit at this time?
- How long will you stay?
- Where will you stay?
- How much do you think this trip will cost?
- What is the address where you will stay in the US?
- Who is sponsoring you?
- Do you have children?
- Where did you study?
- How much do you earn?
Depending on your responses, a single question can lead to numerous other follow-up questions.
For example……..
Questions about your occupation may include how long you’ve been working or how much you make per month. Use every opportunity to highlight your positive points to the visa officer.
Remember, you will not get much time and questions… Always be well prepared to focus on the positive highlights within the first 1-2 questions.
US Visa Processing Agency in Bangladesh
The process to apply for a US visa from Bangladesh is very straightforward. The Embassy website is hugely rich and has all the information you need. If you spend a couple of days understanding, you can apply for a US visa yourself. You don’t need any agency or consultant if you are confident.
However, you should seek professional help if your case is complex or if you are not very confident. Always go to experienced visa agencies or consultants who will not misguide you.
Visa Processing Center is a reliable visa consulting agency in Bangladesh for US visas.
Why us?
- With our team’s assistance, securing your US visa from Bangladesh has never been simpler.
- We provide comprehensive support that simplifies the process and helps you process an error-free application.
- With numerous complexities to consider when applying for your visa, we provide tailored consultations with thorough background and travel history analysis.
If you need assistance in any aspect of the process, please don’t hesitate to contact us today – our team is dedicated to providing you with personalized support!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long is a US Tourist Visa valid?
The US Tourist Visa (B-1/B-2) is a non-immigrant visa to the United States. For Bangladeshi nationals, this visa is valid for five years from the date of issue and allows multiple entries.
The period of stay in America may not exceed 6 months at a time. The Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers will inform you of the stay period, and you can see it on your I-94 form online after arrival.
How much is a visa from Bangladesh to the USA?
The embassy has no set limit on how much money you need to show. As long as it’s enough to cover your overall expenses, including airfare, accommodation, shopping, or any other activities related to your trip, that amount would be sufficient.
The more funds available, the better. But remember, you need proof of funds. You can’t just take a ransom amount from someone and deposit it in your account to get your US visitor visa approved.
The consular officers are very good at interpreting bank statements and understanding the applicant’s financial situation.
What is the photo requirement for a U.S. visa?
The photograph must be a digital image that follows specific guidelines. A square photo with dimensions of at least 600 pixels by 600 pixels and no more than 1200 pixels by 1200 pixels. The image must also be in color and free of excessive editing. JPG or JPEG format, with a file size of less than 240 KB.
You dress well for the photo and have it captured at a renowned professional studio.
Should I bring my complete application or only the confirmation page to the interview?
For the US visa interview, you just need your DS160 confirmation page. The consular officer will be able to access your application data using the page during the interview. You don’t need to bring the entire application on the day of the interview.
How can I get a US visa from Bangladesh?
You can get a US visa from Bangladesh in 3 major steps. Fill out your DS-160 form, schedule an appointment with the US Embassy in Dhaka, and attend your visa interview at the scheduled time.
How long does it take to get a US visa from Dhaka?
It takes 3-7 days to process your US visa from Bangladesh, from filling out the DS-160 form to getting an appointment. But there is a long queue to get an appointment date from the US Embassy in Dhaka.
Currently, the US visa interview schedule is available after almost 12-15 months. If you want an earlier interview date, please feel free to contact us so we can assist you.
How to check the US visa status in Bangladesh?
You can check your US visa status from this website.
How much is the US visa interview fee?
The US Visa fee is $160, converted into local currency at the time of application. If you take professional processing help from any consultant, the cost varies.
What is the Address and phone number of the US Embassy in Dhaka?
U.S. Embassy in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Madani Avenue, Baridhara, Dhaka -1212, Bangladesh. Phone: (+88) 02 885 5500, Fax: (+88) 02 882 3744, Website: www.dhaka.usembassy.gov/ Office Hours: Sunday to Thursday (08:00 AM – 16:30 PM) except holidays.
How to collect the passport after visa approval?
You can collect your passport from the VFS Global Dhaka office.
VFS Global (Pvt) Limited, 4th Floor, Delta Life Tower, Plot 37, Dhaka – 1212