H1B Visa Stamping Process

When you leave the US first time after your H1B visa has commenced, you need to get stamping from US Consulate before re-entering US. This info is specially for those who did their masters in the US and started their work in OPT and obtained their H1B. You need to prepare for the interview atleast 2-3 weeks in advance.

1. DS-160 Form

2. Documents required for Booking Visa Interview date:

• DS-160 Barcode (Filled online)
• HDFC Bank Receipt Barcode
• I-797 - USCIS approval notice
• Passport
• Link to Schedule an interview - https://www.vfs-usa.co.in/USIndia/visaappointment.html
• More info: click here
  

3. Documents required for the Visa Interview

• More info: http://chennai.usconsulate.gov/h1bvisas.html
• Official link for Steps for the interview - http://chennai.usconsulate.gov/howtoapply.html

Form DS-160

Currently only DS-160 form need to be filled. Other forms may be required based on some criteria. Please verify the official site for more info. This form is required for the booking the visa interview date.

Details required for filing form DS-160 online:

• Photo as per the specification (Soft copy/scanned copy)
• Passport info
• Parents info
• Employment info
• Education info
• Duration of stay in the US
• Previous Visa info
• I797 - USCIS Approval Notice
• Start your application - https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/
• Official link to DS-160 Application Form - http://www.vfs-usa.co.in/USIndia/applicationformDS160.html

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Documents required for the H1B Visa Interview

Please take the originals for all the documents except where mentioned. Also keep a copy for each, in case you are asked.

• Visa Interview Confirmation Letter
• DS-160 Confirmation page
• HDFC Bank Receipt
• I-797 - USCIS approval notice
• I-129 Petition copy
• Degree certificate (BS & MS)
• Transcripts (BS & MS)
• I-20
• EAD - Employment Authorization Document
• Passport
• Last 3 year Tax documents
• Offer letter (latest and previous if any)
• Paystub 6-12 months (latest and previous if any)
• Letter from current employer confirming employer's intent to hire the applicant
• Note: Keep a copy of all the documents, just in case you are asked.
• Optional - Resume / CV
• Optional - Passport Photo

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