USA Tourist Visa: Apply While in Germany

"Yes — you can apply for a U.S. B1/B2 tourist visa from Germany even if you are an Indian citizen staying in Germany on a short-term visitor visa (Schengen C visa), BUT approval becomes more difficult.

Here’s what you need to know:

1. Is It Allowed?

✔ Yes, it is legally allowed.

The U.S. accepts visa applications from any country where you are physically present, regardless of nationality.

But…

 A short-term visitor status (Schengen C visa) is considered weak evidence of ties.

You must convince the U.S. officer that you will return to your home country after the trip.

2. Requirements to Apply from Germany

You must show very strong evidence because you are not a resident of Germany.

You will need:

Your Indian passport

Your German Schengen visitor visa (C visa)

Proof of strong ties to India (very important)

DS-160 confirmation page

Interview appointment confirmation

U.S. visa fee receipt

Strong ties can include:

Job offer/Employment letter in India

Property ownership

Family ties (spouse/parents/children in India)

Ongoing business or studies

Return flight ticket from Germany to India

3. Application Steps

Exactly the same as normal U.S. visa process:

Step 1: Complete DS-160

Select interview location:

Berlin, Frankfurt, or Munich

Step 2: Pay the $185 fee

Step 3: Book your interview

Step 4: Attend the Interview

Be prepared for these questions:

Why are you applying from Germany instead of India?

What ties do you have in India?

How long will you stay in the U.S.?

What do you do in India?

⚠ Important Reality Check: Approval Chances

U.S. consulates prefer applicants who:

Live legally in the country

Have long-term residence status

Have stable ties (job, address, family)

Since you are only a visitor in Germany, your application will be viewed as high risk unless you show strong proofs of return to India.

High refusal risk if:

You quit your job in India

You have no strong ties

You cannot explain why you are applying from Germany

Your funds are low

Approval more likely if:

You have a permanent job or business in India

You have family dependents in India

You have strong travel history

Your reason to apply in Germany is genuine (e.g., attending a conference soon, travel timing)"