The US visit visa (B1/B2) process has two parts: the DS-160 online form and an in-person interview at the US Embassy in Islamabad or the Consulate in Karachi. Unlike many countries, the decision is made largely at the interview — so being consistent and confident matters as much as your documents.
Filling in the DS-160
The DS-160 asks about your identity, travel plans, family, work, education and travel history. A few rules make a big difference:
- Be complete and honest. Declare previous refusals, past travel and all required social media handles.
- Match your documents. Your job title, salary and employer details should match your employment letter and payslips exactly.
- Use your real travel plan. If you are visiting a relative, give their correct address and relationship.
- Save your application ID. You can save the form and come back to it later.
Tip: Print the DS-160 confirmation page and keep a copy of the full form. Re-read it the night before your interview — the officer's questions will come from it.
After the form
- Pay the visa application fee.
- Book your interview appointment (and biometrics, if required).
- Prepare your documents in a simple folder.
What to take to the interview
- Passport, old passports and the DS-160 confirmation page
- Appointment confirmation
- Proof of employment or business, and income
- Bank statements
- Proof of family and property ties in Pakistan
- If visiting family: your relative's status in the US and an invitation letter
The officer may not ask to see most documents, but have them organised in case they do.
How to answer interview questions
Interviews are short — often just a few minutes. Common questions include:
- Why are you going to the United States?
- Who will you stay with?
- What do you do in Pakistan, and how much do you earn?
- Who is paying for the trip?
- Have you travelled abroad before?
Answer directly and truthfully, in a sentence or two. Don't memorise long speeches, and don't offer documents unless asked.
If you are refused
A refusal under section 214(b) usually means the officer was not convinced of your ties to Pakistan. Reapplying immediately with the same situation rarely helps. Wait until something meaningful has changed — a promotion, more travel history, or stronger financial ties — before applying again.
Planning a US trip?
We can help you organise your documents and plan flights and hotels once your visa is approved. Contact our team for guidance.