A clear path to your application
The right application channel depends on your destination and where you legally live.
Prepare your application
Complete Form DS-160 and bring its confirmation page. Follow the local U.S. post instructions for your interview; applicants should use a post in their country of nationality or residence, or a designated processing post. Interview waits vary by location.
Submit through the official channel
Use a U.S. B visitor visa. Check the current instructions and total government charges before paying.
Review the decision before departure
Check the passport details, dates and entry conditions on the permission you receive.
Check your trip dates
Count your travel days and compare your passport expiry with the entry rule.
What to prepare for your trip
Check each item as you prepare it. Labels show which documents are required, conditional, or recommended.
Your circumstances may require additional documents. Ticks track preparation, not eligibility or admission.
Costs & timing
Government charges and decision times for this route. Check the official service for your final fee.
Government fees
- B-1/B-2 application processing fee
- USD 185
- Visa Integrity Fee (FY2026 statutory amount)
- USD 256
The State Department lists a non-refundable USD 185 B-1/B-2 application fee, and a nationality-dependent reciprocal issuance fee may also apply. Federal law separately requires a Visa Integrity Fee when a nonimmigrant visa is issued; its calculated FY2026 amount is USD 256. The State Department's published fee page still lists the USD 185 application fee but does not explain how or when the separate fee is collected. Confirm current payment instructions with your U.S. post before paying. The law allows reimbursement only after the visa expires and only if its conditions are met. Read the official fee guidance.
Details that can change your plans
Your admission date controls how long you may stay
A visitor visa's validity does not set the length of an individual stay. CBP records your admission class and admit-until date on your Form I-94; check that date after arrival and leave by it. An approved visa does not guarantee admission.
Official guidanceChoose the correct U.S. interview post
Applicants should schedule at a U.S. post in their country of nationality or residence. If routine services are not offered there, use the designated processing post. Applying elsewhere can make qualification harder, and fees are not transferable.
Official guidanceUnited States at a glance
- Capital
- Washington, D.C.
- Currency
- USD
- Calling code
- +1
Questions for this route
Do travelers with an ordinary passport from Democratic Republic of the Congo need a visa for the United States?
For tourism in the United States, travelers using an ordinary passport from Democratic Republic of the Congo should obtain a visa before travel. Complete Form DS-160 and bring its confirmation page. Follow the local U.S. post instructions for your interview; applicants should use a post in their country of nationality or residence, or a designated processing post. Interview waits vary by location.
How much passport validity do I need?
At least 6 months after planned departure.
How much is the government fee?
B-1/B-2 application processing fee: USD 185 per person. Visa Integrity Fee (FY2026 statutory amount): USD 256 per person. Check the official payment page for exemptions and any additional charges.
How long can I stay in the United States with a visitor visa?
A visitor visa's validity does not set the length of an individual stay. CBP records your admission class and admit-until date on your Form I-94; check that date after arrival and leave by it. An approved visa does not guarantee admission.
What fees apply for a United States visitor visa?
The State Department lists a non-refundable USD 185 B-1/B-2 application fee, and a nationality-dependent reciprocal issuance fee may also apply. Federal law separately requires a Visa Integrity Fee when a nonimmigrant visa is issued; its calculated FY2026 amount is USD 256. The State Department's published fee page still lists the USD 185 application fee but does not explain how or when the separate fee is collected. Confirm current payment instructions with your U.S. post before paying. The law allows reimbursement only after the visa expires and only if its conditions are met.
What if I’m going to work, study or stay longer?
This guide is for a short tourist visit on an ordinary passport. It does not establish eligibility for employment, study or residence. Use the destination’s official guidance for your actual purpose.
Does my country of residence change the answer?
Passport nationality and legal residence are different. This page starts with your passport. Residence can change where you apply and which application channel is available; an existing visa or residence permit may also create an exception. Check the official eligibility guidance for your circumstances.
Official websites
Use these government websites to confirm requirements and complete any application.
Open a U.S. B visitor visa
Complete Form DS-160 and bring its confirmation page. Follow the local U.S. post instructions for your interview; applicants should use a post in their country of nationality or residence, or a designated processing post. Interview waits vary by location.
Check U.S. visitor visa guidance
Visitor visa categories, application steps and links to the Visa Waiver Program.
Check U.S. visa interview wait times
Interview appointments vary by location and the estimate is not a guaranteed appointment date.
Read the Visa Integrity Fee law
The statute covers the fee due when a nonimmigrant visa is issued and the conditions for reimbursement.
Check the State Department fee schedule
The public schedule lists the B visitor visa application and possible reciprocity fees. Confirm your payment instructions with the U.S. post handling your case.
About this guide
This guide covers short tourist visits on an ordinary passport. Your nationality, residence, travel document and purpose can affect the entry conditions. Check the linked official guidance before travel; the border authority decides admission and your permitted stay.
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