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Applying for a U.S. tourist visa is more than just filling out a form. The process begins with having a legitimate reason to visit and the right documents to support that reason.
✅ Before You Start the Application
1. Identify Your Purpose of Travel (Tourism, Visit, Business, Medical)
Make sure your reason for travel fits into one of the following:
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Tourism (sightseeing, vacation)
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Visiting family/friends (you’ll need an invitation letter)
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Business meetings or conferences
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Medical treatment (bring supporting medical documents)
2. Secure an Invitation Letter (If Visiting Someone in the U.S.)
If your trip involves visiting friends or family, ask them to send you an invitation letter. It should include:
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Their full name, address, and legal status in the U.S.
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A clear statement inviting you
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Purpose and duration of the visit
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A copy of their U.S. passport or visa/residency document
📝 Step 1: Fill Out the DS-160 Form
Go to the official site:
👉 https://ceac.state.gov/genniv
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Answer all questions honestly.
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Use your invitation letter details if applicable.
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Upload a passport-style photo that meets U.S. visa standards.
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After submitting, save and print the confirmation page.
💵 Step 2: Pay the Visa Fee
The non-refundable application fee is $185 USD. Pay using methods listed on the U.S. Embassy Ethiopia site:
👉 https://et.usembassy.gov
📅 Step 3: Schedule Your Visa Interview
Book your appointment at:
👉 https://www.ustraveldocs.com/et/
You’ll need:
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Your passport
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DS-160 confirmation number
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Visa payment receipt
📂 Step 4: Prepare the Required Documents
Bring these to your interview:
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Valid passport
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DS-160 confirmation page
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Appointment confirmation
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Visa fee receipt
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Invitation letter (if applicable)
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Proof of financial means (bank statements, payslips)
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Proof of ties to Ethiopia (employment, property, family)
🗣 Step 5: Attend Your Interview
Be calm, clear, and honest. The consular officer may ask:
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Why are you going to the U.S.?
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Who is paying for your trip?
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What is your relationship with the inviter?
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Do you plan to return to Ethiopia?
If approved, your visa will be processed, and your passport returned within a few days.
🛑 Remember:
Having strong ties to Ethiopia like a job, family, school, or property helps show you will return after your visit.
