US B1/B2 visitor visa from South Africa
The US B1/B2 visa covers tourism, family visits and business travel. South Africans apply online with the DS-160 form, pay the MRV fee and attend an in-person interview at the consulate in Cape Town or Johannesburg.
Start my United States visaFees and timelines are indicative and change with embassy policy and exchange rates — we confirm current figures in writing before you apply. Our service fee: From ZAR 1,500 per applicant.
Documents you'll need
- Passport valid 6+ months beyond your intended stay
- DS-160 confirmation page with barcode
- MRV fee payment receipt
- Interview appointment confirmation
- One US-spec photograph (5x5cm, white background)
- Proof of employment and approved leave
- Bank statements and proof of assets in South Africa
- Travel itinerary and US accommodation or host details
Insider tips
- Answer only what is asked at the interview — over-explaining triggers follow-up questions.
- Bring evidence of ties to South Africa, but expect not to be asked for it.
- Never book paid tickets before approval; the consulate does not require them.
- A refusal under section 214(b) can be reapplied for once circumstances change.
How the application works
- 1Prepare the DS-160
Every answer is on record at the interview — we prepare it carefully and keep your confirmation safe.
- 2Pay the MRV fee
USD 185 per applicant, non-refundable even if the visa is refused.
- 3Book the interview
Cape Town and Johannesburg slots open in waves; we watch for earlier releases.
- 4Interview coaching
A short, honest, consistent answer set — most interviews last under four minutes.
- 5Passport return
Approved passports are couriered to your chosen collection point within about a week.
United States visa FAQs
How long does a US visa take from South Africa?
The interview wait is the variable — it can range from weeks to several months. Once approved, the passport is usually returned within 5 to 10 working days.
How much does a US visitor visa cost?
USD 185 per applicant for the MRV fee, non-refundable. Our preparation and interview-coaching fee starts at ZAR 1,500.
Do children need to attend the interview?
Applicants under 14 and over 79 can often qualify for an interview waiver. We confirm eligibility for your family before booking.
How long is a US visa valid for South Africans?
B1/B2 visas are typically issued for 10 years with multiple entries; each stay is decided at the port of entry, usually up to six months.
Let us handle the paperwork
Document review, appointment booking and embassy follow-ups — plus flights, accommodation and transfers in the same quote.