Afghanistan passport → United States

United States visa for citizens of Afghanistan

Embassy / VFSNonimmigrant Visa (B1/B2, etc.)

Citizens of Afghanistan need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Nonimmigrant Visa (B1/B2, etc.)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 180 days
Visa validity	3650 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	30–90 days
Government fee	$185
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Required

How to apply

1
Complete DS-160 Form
Fill out the online nonimmigrant visa application form on CEAC website.
2
Pay Visa Fee
Pay the nonrefundable visa application fee of $185.
3
Schedule Appointment
Book an appointment for biometrics and interview at the U.S. embassy/consulate.
4
Attend Biometrics Appointment
Provide fingerprints and photograph at the embassy.
5
Attend Visa Interview
Appear for in-person interview with a consular officer.
6
Wait for Processing
Visa processing typically takes 30-90 days; may require additional administrative processing.
7
Collect Passport with Visa
If approved, passport with visa will be returned via courier or collection.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid Passport
At least 6 months validity.
DS-160 Confirmation Page
Complete online form and print confirmation.
Passport Photo
Must meet U.S. visa photo requirements.

Travel

Travel Itinerary
Optional
Details of planned travel, including flights and accommodation.

Financial

Visa Application Fee Receipt
Proof of payment of $185 fee.
Financial Evidence
Optional
Bank statements or sponsor letter to show sufficient funds.

Supporting

Appointment Letter
Confirmation from U.S. embassy or consulate.
Proof of Ties to Home Country
Optional
e.g., employment letter, property deeds, family ties.
Previous U.S. Visas (if any)
Optional
Copy of any previous U.S. visas.

Good to know

Effective June 9, 2025, U.S. visas may be restricted for Afghan citizens; check eligibility exemptions (e.g., Special Immigrant Visas for former employees).

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient ties to home country

Provide strong evidence of employment, family, and assets in Afghanistan.

Previous visa violations

Ensure compliance with all U.S. immigration laws.

FAQ

Do citizens of Afghanistan need a visa for the United States?

Citizens of Afghanistan need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Nonimmigrant Visa (B1/B2, etc.).

How long can citizens of Afghanistan stay in the United States?

Up to 180 days.

How much does the United States visa cost for citizens of Afghanistan?

Government fee: $185.

How long does United States visa processing take?

Typically 30–90 days.

What documents do citizens of Afghanistan need for the United States?

Valid Passport; DS-160 Confirmation Page; Passport Photo; Appointment Letter; Visa Application Fee Receipt; Proof of Ties to Home Country; and 3 more depending on your situation.

How long must my passport be valid for the United States?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/

Sources

ceac.state.gov

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