Required Documents for US Visa and How Much Should be in the Bank Account?

The US B1/B2 (Tourist and Business) visa application is slightly different from the visa procedures of other countries. The US Consulate does not ask you to upload documents during the application stage; the entire decision is made based on the DS-160 form and the interview. However, you must take "Supporting Documents" with you to the interview.

How Much Money Should Be in the Bank Account?

The most wondered topic by visa applicants is the amount that needs to be shown in the bank account.

• There is no fixed figure: The US does not set a condition saying "you must have this much money in your account".
• Logical Budget: The balance in your account should easily cover the expenses of your planned trip (flight tickets, hotel, and daily expenses) and be at a level that will not put you in financial distress when you return.
• Example Budget: Considering an average flight ticket of $1,000, accommodation of $1,000, and expenses of $1,000 for a 1-week New York trip, it is ideal to have a balance of at least $3,000 (or its TL/Euro equivalent) in your account. However, just having the money is not enough; how that money was earned must also appear consistent on the account statement (salary deposits, etc.).

Documents You Must Have With You When Going to the Interview

Make sure to have the following documents with you when you go to the US Consulate (Ankara or Istanbul) on the day of your appointment:

1. Mandatory Documents: Valid passport (old passports if any), DS-160 Confirmation Page (Barcoded printout), and Appointment Confirmation Page.
2. 1 Photo: 5x5 cm biometric photo with a white background (the exact same one you uploaded to the system).
3. Financial Documents: Your salary and personal checking account statements for the last 3 months, stamped and signed by the bank (along with circular of signature). Photocopies of title deeds and vehicle licenses, if any.
4. Occupational Documents (For Employees): Duty and leave letter written in English on company letterhead, SGK Employment Declaration, barcoded SGK Registration and Service Statement, salary slips for the last 3 months.
5. For Employers: The company's current tax plate, trade registry gazette, circular of signature, certificate of activity.
6. Travel Documents: Your hotel and flight reservations, if any (purchasing is not mandatory, just a reservation is sufficient).

Note: Do not hand these documents through the glass on your own unless the consular officer asks for them. Only give the relevant document when asked, "Can I see your account statement?".