Considering applying for a US visa in Indonesia? You have the option to either seek assistance from specialized agencies or apply independently.
In this article, we'll provide information on both options.
Applying for a US Visa in Indonesia with Legal Indonesia
Legal Indonesia provides a comprehensive service package, including:
- Initial consultation: Covers inquiries about the US visa process in Indonesia and an assessment of potential risks associated with visa refusal.
- Assistance with completing the application form.
- Guidance in preparing answers to common questions and navigating the nuances of the interview process.
- Assistance with processing the consular fee through an Indonesian bank. Please note that the consular fee is not included in the cost of our services and must be paid separately.
- Scheduling interviews at the US consulate.
The service cost is 3,600,000 IDR, approximately $245 (consular fee of $185 is paid separately).
Applying for a US Visa in Indonesia: A DIY Approach
1. Fill out the DS-160 Form: Start by filling out the DS-160 form here.
Ensure you have all necessary information at hand, including passport details, diplomas, work certificates, and electronic photographs.
If you're applying together with family members, use the "Create Family Application" option to provide their details.
Once you've completed the form, click "send confirmation to email." You'll receive an email confirmation with a barcode to confirm your form submission. Print it out and keep it safe as you'll need it during your embassy visit.
Useful tip: You must prove your non-immigrant intentions to the consul. In the form, demonstrate ties to your country of residence, which in this case is Indonesia. Freelancers and remote workers should state their occupation as "freelancer."
2. Pay the Consular Fee: The consular fee for a B1/B2 visa is typically $158 per person.
Click on the "Deposit Slip $185" here, print it out, and take it to the main branches of Permata Bank or Standard Chartered in Denpasar for payment. Keep the receipt (referred to as MRV FEE) safe as you'll need it to schedule your interview and at the embassy.
3. Schedule Your Interview: Register on the US Travel Docs website and schedule your interview.
Fill in your passport details and provide the address where you want your passports to be sent if your visa is approved. Usually, there are 2 options: delivery to your home address as indicated in the form, or pick up from a FedEx office in Bali.
Next, enter the MRV FEE receipt number and schedule your interview at your preferred interview location for available dates and times. There are 2 US consulates in Indonesia: in Surabaya and Jakarta. Surabaya is the nearest US consulate, just a 50-minute flight away from Bali.
After scheduling your interview, you'll receive a confirmation email, which you should also print out and bring with you to the interview.
Note that the US immigration website states that you can schedule your interview 3-4 hours after payment at the bank. If you encounter any issues with scheduling your interview after making the payment, be sure to contact their Customer Service for assistance.
4. Attend the Interview: Arrive at the consulate, register, undergo security checks, and wait for your number to be called.
Note that despite the scheduled appointments, everyone enters on a first-come, first-served basis. It is advisable to arrive as early as possible.
Submit all mandatory documents, including your passport (and your expired passports if you have them), DS-160 confirmation, interview appointment confirmation, and MRV FEE receipt. Provide fingerprints when requested. Wait for your interview and answer the consul's questions regarding your travel plans.
You may be asked questions such as:
- What is the purpose of your visit to the USA?
- What do you want to visit in the USA?
- How long do you plan to stay in the USA?
These questions help the consulate assess the nature of your visit and determine if you meet the criteria for the visa you are applying for. It's essential to answer these questions honestly and provide clear and concise responses.
Once your visa is approved, expect to receive your passports with the visas in about a week.
Good luck with your application!
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