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Step 6: Gather Supporting Documentation.
 

The consular officer will only consider documents brought along to the interview. Documents faxed or mailed to the Consulate General in advance of the application will not be considered.

REQUIRED

Visa Class Dependent
Depending on the type of visa with which you are traveling to the U.S., specific documentation may be required.

Please see the Non-Immigrant Visa Check List (pdf) to find out about document requirements for your visa class. 

RECOMMENDED

Supporting Documentation
During the interview, the Consular Officer may request additional documentation in support of your application. This may include, but is not limited to, documents supporting claims of employment, student status, place of residence, financial status, intended itinerary, purpose of travel, etc.
If your German residence permit was issued after August 30, 2011, it will no longer be placed in your passport. Please remember to bring your electronic residence permit (eAT) card with you to the interview.
It is suggested that applicants bring documentary evidence to the interview to support claims made on the application. If an applicant does not have documentation requested by the Consular Officer, s/he may be asked to send it in after the interview. Therefore, you will save time by being prepared. Such information may include:

Proof of Employment
A letter from your employer on original letterhead, stating how long you have been employed and in what capacity, what your basic monthly salary is, and how long you will be away from work is suggested. If you are traveling on business, your letter should detail the nature of your business, including U.S. companies or offices you will visit. If you are self-employed, it is advisable to bring proof of your business registration.

Proof of Finances
Applicants are advised to bring an itemized bank or investment statement going back at least two months reflecting that you have adequate funds to pay for their intended stay in the U.S. Students, for example, should be able to prove that they have adequate finances to pay for their entire program of study and living expenses. If you own property or real estate, you may bring evidence of this.

Please note that bank letters that state that you have sufficient funds or letters from family members promising to cover your expenses are not sufficient. Applicants are advised to bring bank statements that reflect their account balances.

Proof of Previous Travel/U.S. visas
Please bring any old passports showing international travel and/or previous U.S. visas. If you were issued a U.S. visa that is still valid but is in a passport that has been lost or stolen, please bring a copy of the police report.

Proof of Travel Plans
If you have made arrangements for your trip to the United States, please bring an itinerary or travel plan. This should not include purchased plane tickets, as we strongly urge that you not purchase tickets or make irrevocable travel plans before obtaining a visa.

Proof of Relationship to Principal Applicant, if applying for a derivative visa
To qualify for a dependent visa, applicants must bring civil documents to prove relationship to the principal applicant, i.e. spouses: original marriage certificate, children: original birth certificate.

Students, Scholars, and Exchange Visitors
It is advisable to bring a letter from your current institution stating your level of study and detailing your program start date and anticipated end date. School transcripts showing your grades in your current program are also recommended.

Pensioners
Evidence of pension, property ownership, health insurance (to cover healthcare expenses in the U.S.), and finances is suggested.

Unemployed Spouses
Proof of your husband/wife's employment is suggested.

Visitor Information

  • Forbidden Items and
    Entry Regulations
    (pdf)

    • NO cell phones
    • NO USB Sticks
    • NO portable game devices
    • More restricted items (pdf)

    If you fail to follow these security requirements you may face delays or cancellations to your visit.

    Items cannot be deposited at the U.S. Embassy/U.S. Consulate


    no cell phones allowed inside