USA

US Visa Application Process Guide (2026 Updated Information)

Citizens of the Republic of Turkey planning to travel to the United States must obtain a visa appropriate for their purpose of travel. The US visa application process is a multi-step procedure that requires careful and complete preparation. The correct completion of the DS-160 form, which is the foundation of the application, and performance during the visa interview play a critical role in determining the outcome. This guide details the application steps based on current 2026 information.

Most Common US Visa Types

Before applying, it is mandatory to determine the most suitable visa type for your travel purpose. The most common nonimmigrant visa categories are:

B1/B2 Visitor Visa (Tourist and Business)

This is the most frequently applied-for visa type. It is issued for purposes such as tourism, visiting family or friends (B2), attending business meetings, conferences, or trade shows (B1), and short-term medical treatment. This visa type does not grant the right to work or engage in long-term study.

F-1 Student Visa

This visa is for students who have been accepted into a language school, high school, university, or other academic institution in the US.

J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa

This visa is required for individuals participating in approved exchange programs such as Work and Travel, internships, research, or au pair programs.

How to Get a US Visa: A 5-Step Application Guide

The standard steps to obtain a US visa are summarized below. Completing each step fully is important for the process to proceed smoothly.

Step 1: Complete the DS-160 Form

The DS-160 is an online form that must be completed in English and is the most fundamental document of your application. All information on the form (personal, family, work, travel history, etc.) must be accurate, complete, and consistent with the information in your passport. It is mandatory to print the confirmation page with the barcode after completing the form.

Step 2: Pay the Visa Application Fee

After completing the DS-160 form, you must pay the fee for the visa type you are applying for. For example, the US B1/B2 tourist/business visa fee for 2026 can be paid through the online portal or specified bank channels. This fee is non-refundable.

Step 3: Schedule Your Visa Appointment (CGI Federal)

After paying the visa fee, you can schedule an appointment by creating a profile on the official visa services portal, CGI Federal. Appointments are made for the US Embassy in Ankara or the US Consulate General in Istanbul. Appointment availability may vary during peak seasons.

Step 4: Prepare the Required Documents

The essential documents you must have with you on your appointment day are a valid passport, the DS-160 confirmation page, the appointment confirmation letter, and a visa photo. In addition, it is recommended to prepare supporting documents that prove your purpose of travel, financial situation, and ties to Turkey (e.g., employment letter, pay stubs, bank statements, hotel/flight reservations).

Step 5: Attend the Visa Interview

You must be present at the consulate at the appointed date and time for your visa interview. The interview is conducted by a consular officer and its purpose is to verify the information you provided on the DS-160 form and to confirm the authenticity of your travel purpose.

The US Visa Interview: Questions and Preparation Tips

The interview is often seen as the most stressful step of the application. The consular officer expects you to prove that your visit to the US is temporary and that you will return to your home country at the end of your trip. Common US visa interview questions revolve around these topics:

• Purpose of Travel: Where are you going? Why? Who will you be staying with?
• Financial Situation: Who is financing your trip? What is your occupation? What is your monthly income?
• Ties to Your Home Country: Elements that bind you to your country, such as your family, job, and property you own.

It is extremely important that your answers are clear, honest, and consistent with the information on your DS-160 form.

Visa Renewal Without an Interview (Interview Waiver)

Applicants who meet certain criteria may benefit from the US visa interview waiver renewal program. Generally, individuals whose visa of the same category has just expired or expired within the last 48 months can benefit from this right. Criteria such as age (under 14 and over 80) may also provide an interview waiver. This simplifies and speeds up the application process considerably.

Common Visa Refusal Reasons: Section 214(b)

The most common reason for a US visa refusal is Section 214(b). This refusal means the applicant failed to convince the consular officer that their travel to the US is temporary and that they will return to their country upon completion of their visit. The officer has found that the applicant's economic and social ties (job, family, property, etc.) to Turkey are not strong enough. A US visa refusal under 214(b) is not permanent, and a new application can be made when there is a significant change in circumstances.

The US Visa Process with Hermes Vize

The US visa application process can be complex and detailed. Hermes Vize provides professional consulting services during this challenging process, helping you to complete your application accurately and completely. To manage your process with an expert perspective and minimize potential errors, you can contact us to learn more about our consultancy services.