United States of America Visa Services
United States of America
At Visas Abroad, we understand that U.S. visa processing times can vary depending on the type of visa and individual circumstances. While we provide the most accurate and up-to-date information, these timelines are subject to change as per U.S. Government regulations.
Staying informed about the latest processing times and ensuring you have all the required documentation is key to a smooth visa application process. Below, we outline the most common requirements for U.S. visitor visas, followed by the current processing times for B1/B2, C1/D, and J1 visas.
Photo-copies | Please ensure all your photocopies of original documents as requested by the embassy have been made prior to submission. |
Processing times | 5-10 working days – Canadian Embassy will contact the applicant directly should they have any queries or require any further assistance, should they contact you the visa application processing times will depend on the Canadian Embassy. Please be advised that foreign passport holders processing times may differ. |
Cost | Complete pricing and quotes can be obtained through our website. Our service includes collection and delivery to and from your office/ home within an approximate 60km radius of CBD. |
Minors (Under 18) | An Original notarized parental consent letter for minor children (under 18) travelling unaccompanied by their parents or guardian, if one parent is travelling with the child then the other parent must submit a notarized |
Business application | Must include a letter from the company in South Africa detailing the nature of the business and supporting letter(s) from the company/companies to be visited in Canada. |
Self employed | Evidence of operation of business (e.g. ownership documents. Business registration certificates, VAT registration, bank statements etc) accompanied by letter on own business letterhead indicating period of absence from S.A. |
Employers Letter | An original detailed letter from the employer is required stating the duration of leave granted, the date you commenced your employment and confirmation of your current position. |
Bank letter | An original letter from your bank is required stating you have sufficient funds to travel. Bank Statements are not considered as proof of funds. |
Itinerary Accommodation | Detailed itinerary required showing dates and full flight itinerary Proof of pre-paid and pre-booked accommodation. If applicable: Letter from host in Canada such as a friend or family |
Passport photographs | Two RECENT COLOUR photographs taken against a white back-ground only. Please no headgear, sunglasses etc and applicant must have neutral expression – mouth closed ONE photograph must be signed on the back along with date of birth clearly written. |
Application form | Application form to be completed online, Visas and Passports will do the online application on your behalf; please complete the form we have available on our website for your submission, Please be sure to download the additional family information sheet, http://www.visasunlimited.co.za/forms/visa/canada/canada_family_information_form.pdf , as the Embassy requires this for all submissions. |
Passport | Valid passport. (valid for at least 6 months after return date) Passports must have at least two blank pages. |
What are three things you can't do with a visitor visa?
Travel Purposes Not Permitted On Visitor Visas
Study.
Employment.
Paid performances, or any professional performance before a paying audience.
Arrival as a crewmember on a ship or aircraft.
Work as foreign press, in radio, film, print journalism, or other information media.
Permanent residence in the United States.
How long does it take to get a US visa in South Africa?
Getting a US visa in South Africa involves appointment wait times (which can be months) plus processing time (typically 3-10 days after interview), so apply at least 3 months ahead, checking current waits for Johannesburg (e.g., ~104 days), Cape Town (~120 days), and Durban (~100 days) on the U.S. Department of State's website. After a potentially long wait for an interview slot, the actual visa processing post-interview is usually quick (days) unless extra administrative checks are needed, which can add weeks or months.
What is a red flag in a US visa?
Saying you're applying for a tourist visa but mentioning plans for a business meeting or training. Giving vague responses like “I just want to travel for a few months” without a concrete itinerary.
What not to say to an immigration officer?
6 Things You Should Never Say to Immigration Officers — and the Risks if You Do
“I Don't Know Where I Am Staying”
“I Am Here to Work” (Without a Work Visa)
“I'm Visiting a Friend I Met Online”
“I Don't Have a Return Ticket”
“I'll Figure Things Out Once I'm There”
Joking About Drugs, Bombs, or Crime.
Why do visitor visas get rejected?
Most UK Visitor Visa refusals happen because applicants fail to prove they will return to their home country, not because of weak travel plans. Strong home ties—such as employment, property, dependants, and long-term commitments—are essential for approval.
How much bank balance is required for a visitor visa?
There is no fixed financial eligibility requirement or minimum amount of money that a visitor must have to enter the UK on a Standard Visitor visa. However, you must be able to demonstrate that you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay without working or accessing public funds.