Financial Sufficiency for USA B1/B2 Visas
One of the most common reasons for a US visitor visa rejection under Section 214(b) is the inability to prove sufficient funds. Many applicants ask: 'How much money must be in my bank account?' Here is the practical guide to US tourist visa funding.
1. The Reality of the 'Minimum Balance'
The US Department of State does not specify any official minimum bank balance. The visa officer evaluates your financial profiling to determine if you can easily cover a trip costing roughly $3,000 to $5,000 without seeking illegal work in the US.
2. Recommended Savings Profile
For a standard 2-week tourist trip, we recommend showing a stable bank balance of ₹3 Lakhs to ₹5 Lakhs per applicant. This should not be a sudden deposit; officers look for seasoned, gradual savings over a period of 6 months.
3. Supporting Income Documents
Liquid balance is only part of the story. You must attach stable income proofs to establish ties to India:
- Salaried: 3 years of Income Tax Returns (ITR), Form 16, and salary slips.
- Business Owners: Company registration, GST certificates, and corporate bank statements.