Das Thema US Visum hat mich schon vor meiner Recherche absolut gestresst.
What options are available? What do I need to consider for my first trip outside the EU that takes place over an extended period?
Even after my research, I wasn't any less stressed. Because a trip to the USA can be straightforward, but in my case, it's a bit more complicated.
While Josh had already begun the process for his visa, I was still considering which visa was right for me.
After researching on various websites, it became clear that I couldn't use ESTA for such an extended period of five months.
Josh applied for a J1 visa. With this visa, he can study in the States. He didn't need to attend an interview as he had already spent time in Texas attending high school during his 11th grade.
In general, ESTA is the simplest way to obtain a visa. It allows entry into the country for a duration of 90 days. This can be used consecutively or split up.
ESTA is simply an online form.
However, since I intended to stay in the States for an extended period, the B1/B2 tourist visa for a duration of 180 days was the only option for me.
Form
To obtain this, you need to first fill out the DS-160 form. This can be done online at Nonimmigrant Visa – Instructions Page (state.gov)You will receive an Application ID, which you should definitely write down. The system ends your session after 20 minutes. Since filling out the form takes longer, you may need to log in again. Remember to save your progress regularly to avoid losing entered data. It's also best to have a biometric photo ready with dimensions of 2 x 2 inches. Since passport photos in Germany don't have these dimensions, a trip to a photographer was necessary. You can also go to a drugstore for this purpose. The machines there can be adjusted in their settings to have the correct dimensions.
Once the form is completed, you will receive a confirmation. You should save or print this file directly.
Interview
The next step is to pay the processing fee and schedule an interview appointment.
You can go to Ein US-Visum beantragen | Home – Deutschland (Deutsch) (ustraveldocs.com) and create a profil. Then enter your Application ID and you will be prompted to pay the processing fee. This fee is currently €152. Payment can only be made using a Visa or MasterCard credit card.
Additionally, you must decide whether you want to personally pick up your visa after it's ready or have it delivered by a courier service. The shipping fee is € 27. I opted for the delivery service.
In the next step, you need to schedule an interview appointment. The interview takes place at the consulate of your choice; in my case, it was Frankfurt. During the holiday season, there may be longer waiting times. I booked my appointment in mid-May and received the next available slot on July 18th. So, it's advisable to complete all the necessary documents promptly and schedule an appointment well in advance if you're planning a trip with a visa.
Preparation for the appointment:
- Be punctual, but not too early (you might not be allowed in if you arrive too early).
- Leave all your electronics in the car, as no cell phones, smartwatches, or laptops are allowed inside the building.
- Do not bring any liquids.
- Bring a small bag; large bags are also not allowed.
- Print out all necessary documents; you can find a detailed list below.
I was quite nervous before my appointment. The uncertainty was the most unsettling. What questions would they ask me? Do I need to answer them in English? What if my visa is denied?
Days before, I watched videos about possible questions. I printed all my documents and neatly placed them in a protective sleeve. I set off early, only to end up waiting in my car for a long time.
Documents I had printed and brought with me:
- Confirmation (document received after completing the DS-160 form)
- Appointment confirmation
- Valid passport
- Passport photo
- Copy of my current lease agreement
- Copy of proof of special leave for a specific period
- Flight tickets (round-trip)
- Proof of my financial situation
- Curriculum Vitae
Hauptsächlich ist es dem Land wichtig, dass du eine Rückkehrintention hast, also nicht vor hast, dauerhaft dort zu bleiben. Außerdem solltest du deine finanzielle Situation offen legen, damit du nicht dazu gedrängt wirst illegal zu arbeiten, dann mit dem B1/B2 Visum ist arbeiten nicht gestattet.
Do thorough research on the requirements and conditions of the visa you have applied for, so that the interviewer doesn't identify any inconsistencies.
During my appointment, the interviewers spoke English. In general, everyone assumes you can speak English and addresses you accordingly. However, there were also some staff members present with whom you could converse in German.
Zuletzt kann ich dir noch die Fragen auflisten, die mir in meinem Interview gestellt wurden:
- Warum nicht ESTA?
- What will you be doing in the USA during this time?
- Is your boyfriend a German citizen?
- What is he studying?
- Which university is he studying at?
Indeed, as you can see, the questions were not particularly difficult. Officials simply want an honest answer and to clear up any doubts about accuracy. Most of my documents weren't requested, but it made me feel more secure and better prepared.
After I answered the questions, the officer just said, "Your Visa is approved." I had to leave my passport there, and within 4 days, it was sent back to me with the visa sticker attached.
However, I still have the documents with me upon entry because the border officials can ask questions and deny entry despite having a visa if there are any discrepancies.
All in all, I did think a lot about the whole process, which might not have been necessary, but it gave me a sense of security. So, if you're like me, scouring the internet for personal experiences or trying to better understand the procedure, I hope this post was helpful for you.