A quick guide to renew a US visitor's VISA (B1/B2)

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Just completed the process for my three seniors, who all had US Vistor VISA before. I really wish there is a renew process, but no. You need to go through the same steps as a new applicant. The good news is everything went smoothly and they have gotten their passports back with the VISA attached.


 Step 1. Complete Form DS-160 online
https://travel.state.gov/content/visas/en/visit/visitor.html#overview

Read from top to bottom before you attempt to fill the application form. Then before you start, gather the following:
  • Current valid passport
  • Expired US VISA
  • Last 5 visits to US, go through your custom stamps and write down the date and duration of each visit (If you don't remember exactly, make a reasonable estimate of the time. For us, long weekend visit ~ 3 days, visit families ~ 7 days)
  • Your seniors' parents' names and birthdays (birthdays can be ignored)
  • Pictures (they accept digital copy, there is also a tool to crop your pictures to their standard. However, my picture didn't pass the test, and I ended up having my seniors go to Costco to take a picture)
Important: 
Write down the application number, if you cannot finish it in one shot, you will need the application number to retrieve your form later. You can also save the application to computer, and submit it once you complete the form.

Fill in the form, submit, and printout the confirmation letter.

 Step 2. Make payment and book interview with embassy location
https://ais.usvisa-info.com/en-ca/niv

  • Create an account at the embassy location of your choice
  • You will need to enter the DS-160 application number plus passport and other info
  • Choose the delivery method, mail to home for $$, or pick up in selected location for free
  • Make your payment online
  • Make an interview appointment
  • Printout the confirmation email

Step 3. Bonus for Chinese citizens, Register with EVUS
www.EVUS.gov

  • Once you get your passport back with the VISA, you need to register with EVUS system.


Be patient and thorough with the forms and registrations. Once you get to the interview, it is quick and easy. By all means, it is a renewal in nature. 

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