5 life-saving tips to improve your chances of getting a US visa

A visa to the United States is one of the most difficult to obtain. And yet, it is very popular and desirable. It can take up to 180 days from the moment you submit your documents to the consulate to receive the green light. Thus, be prepared to wait. In the meantime, OBOZREVATEL has prepared 5 life hacks on how to pass an interview at the embassy the first time.

1. Gather all the documents in a separate folder

This is a very important point. If you are missing any one piece of paper, you will not pass the interview. Check the website in advance to see what originals and copies of documents are required and what the requirements are for their execution. However, do not gather everything that you have been keeping in your drawers for years. No one needs your refrigerator receipts and a hundred-year-old bank statement. Also, do not skimp on the quality of printing. For example, it is unlikely that you will be granted a visa if you take a photo of yourself on your phone and just print it out.

2. Write down all possible questions and answers

The interview usually lasts no more than three minutes, so you can easily get confused and forget about everything. Practice answering the consular officer's questions at home. Most often, they ask about the purpose of the trip, its duration, your plans for living and spending time in America, whether you have friends or relatives in the country, and whether you can pay for all current services.

3. Be punctual

Being late for the interview will surely deprive you of the opportunity to get a visa. However, you don't have to stand at the entrance from 5 a.m. either. The best option is to arrive 15-20 minutes before the appointment and wait until you are called. Don't try to shout out to the security guards or any other employee that you've been waiting for half an hour. Be patient and polite. Remember that the interview starts as soon as you arrive at the embassy.

4. Do not take unnecessary things with you

A huge bag with a bunch of small things, keys, headphones, a cup just in case, a book, a tablet, and 250 other different items are, of course, necessary things. But not in this case. It's best to take only your passport, relevant documents, and phone. Leave everything else at home or in the car. If that's not possible, you can put everything in the nearest luggage storage.

5. Stay calm

It's a strange and trite advice, but it works. You're just applying for a visa, it's not painful or fatal. You are facing an officer who has no need to refuse you. They are just doing their job. You should do yours as well - be polite, calm, speak briefly and to the point. Your confidence will bring good results.

The visa application procedure is available on the official website of the US Department of State. The rules for entering the country can also be found there.