Documents Required:

1. Passport Requirements

Original Passport:

• Issued within the last 10 years.

• Valid for at least three months beyond the intended return date.

• Must have two blank pages facing each other.

• No handwritten amendments or alterations on data pages.

Photocopies:

• First and last pages of the current passport.

• Previous USA visa (if applicable).

• Valid UK, USA, or Canada visas (if applicable).

Old Passport:

• Original old passports (if any).

• If lost, provide proof of loss or an FIR copy.

2. Visa Application Form

• Complete and sign the official visa application form.

• For minors, a parent must sign the application on their behalf.

3. Photo Specifications

• Two recent passport-sized photographs (35x45mm).

• White background, glossy finish, and 70%-80% face coverage.

• Photos must be less than six months old and not reused.

4. Covering Letter

• Content:

Applicant’s name, profession, passport details, purpose, and duration of visit.

• Format:

Self-employed: On company letterhead with a signature and company stamp.

Employed: On plain paper.

• Addressed to:

The Consulate General of USA (based on the jurisdiction of application).

5. Financial Documents

• Bank Statement:

Original personal bank statement for the last six months with bank stamp and signature.

• Income Tax Returns (ITR):

Personal ITR acknowledgement (ITR-V) for the last three years.

• Sponsor Documents:

If sponsored, provide the sponsor’s financial documents and a sponsorship letter.

6. Proof of Occupation

• For Salaried Applicants:

Leave sanction letter from the employer on official letterhead.

Salary slips and bank statements for the last three months.

• For Self-Employed Applicants:

Business registration certificate, GST registration, or proof of proprietorship.

Personal and business bank statements for the last six months.

ITR for the last three assessment years.

• For Retired Applicants:

Pension bank statement for the last six months.

Retirement proof.

• For Students:

Proof of enrollment in school, college, or university.

Bonafide certificate and NOC from the institution.

7. Travel and Accommodation Proof

• Hotel Booking:

Confirmed hotel reservations for the entire stay, matching the travel itinerary.

Include names and addresses of accommodations.

• Flight Reservation:

Return flight ticket or a detailed travel itinerary.

Proof of intra-Schengen travel (if applicable).

8. Travel and Health Insurance

• Minimum coverage: €30,000 (equivalent to $50,000 USD/CHF).

• Must cover the entire stay in the Schengen area.

• Valid for at least 10-15 days beyond the return date.

9. Special Requirements for Minors

• Accompanied by One Parent:

Notarized NOC from the other parent.

Self-attested passport copy or government-issued ID of the other parent.

• Travelling Alone/With a Guardian:

Notarized NOC from both parents.

Self-attested passport copies of both parents.

10. Visiting Friends or Relatives (VFAR)

• An invitation letter stating the purpose of the visit and the relationship.

• Proof of invitee’s status in USA (passport, visa, or residence permit).

• Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill).

11. Additional Documents

• Marriage Proof:

If the spouse’s name is not endorsed on the passport, provide a marriage certificate or affidavit.

• For Honeymoon Couples:

Wedding invitation card or engagement ceremony photos.

12. Passport Collection Process

• Submit a courier form and authorization letter for passport collection.

Important Notes

• Applications must be submitted through VFS Visa Application Centers in India.

• Biometric data is required for first-time applicants and is valid for five years for subsequent applications.

• Submit applications well in advance to secure timely appointments and processing.

By following this comprehensive checklist, applicants can ensure a smooth and hassle-free visa application process.