{"id":102018,"date":"2017-11-21T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2017-11-21T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/travelstartblg.wpenginepowered.com\/step-by-step-us-visa-application\/"},"modified":"2025-11-04T13:54:37","modified_gmt":"2025-11-04T13:54:37","slug":"step-by-step-us-visa-application","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.travelstart.co.za\/blog\/step-by-step-us-visa-application\/","title":{"rendered":"Step by Step: U.S. Visa Application"},"content":{"rendered":"

From the voodoo mystique of New Orleans<\/a> and honky-tonk rhythms of Nashville<\/a> to the glittering lights of New York City<\/a> and Las Vegas<\/a>, the United States beckons to be explored. And to make your journey less stressful, we\u2019ve decided to make things a little easier by breaking down the U.S. Visa application process. This step-by-step guide covers everything from what documents you will need to what questions will be asked during the interview. Now all that\u2019s left to do is book your flights<\/a>!<\/p>\n

South African passport holders require a visa for the United States of America. Fortunately, it is a relatively straightforward process. You will need to apply at the U.S. Consulate General<\/a> in one of the major cities (Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban) and apply at least 15 days before you travel to allow for ample processing time.<\/p>\n

Please note this process is applicable to South African passport holders.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

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Types of Visas<\/h2>\n

Although there are multiple types of U.S. Visas, the two main visas are the B-2 Visitor Visa and B-1 Business Visa.<\/p>\n

Validity of U.S. visa<\/h3>\n

A B-2 Visitor Visa allows the holder to stay within the U.S. for up to six months. The validity of the visa itself is usually anything between 1 to 10 years.<\/p>\n

Find out more about the B-1 Business Visa<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Note: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the date of return.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

How long does it take to get a U.S. Visa?<\/h3>\n

The estimated processing time for a U.S. Visa is between 5 to 15 working days. However, it can take longer if additional documents are required. You will be able to track your visa application online.<\/p>\n

If you did not opt for the courier service when applying, you will be able to collect your passport and visa from your nearest DHL office.<\/p>\n

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Visa Costs<\/h2>\n

The U.S. Visa cost in South Africa is $160 USD (approximately R 2200.00 depending on exchange rate). Visa courier services are an additional R 90.00 or R 400.00 depending on the type of delivery.<\/p>\n

Application fees can be paid in cash or by credit card.<\/p>\n

For credit card payments, you can call the Visa Information Service Center (VISC) on 087 550 2160 during business hours, or visit the U.S. Department of State Visa Appointment Service website<\/a> to make payment and to schedule your appointment.<\/p>\n

For cash payments, you can create an account on the U.S. Department of State Visa Appointment Service website<\/a>, follow the steps until you reach the payment page, and then download, print, and follow the payment instructions page.<\/p>\n

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U.S. Visa Requirements<\/h2>\n