Individuals applying for tourist visas for their families often wonder if they can use visa services. According to the latest guidance, while assistance from relatives or private businesses is common, applicants must review their applications before submission to the embassy. The responsibility for all information on the visa application form ultimately lies with the applicant.
If someone assists in completing the DS-160 form, it is crucial that they are identified on the form. Applicants should review this form before submission to ensure accuracy. The DS-160 confirmation or barcode page presented during the interview must match the one used to schedule the appointment. Discrepancies will require rescheduling of interviews.
Eligibility for a non-immigrant visa is determined by a consular officer during the interview. Applicants should be honest about past travel history or police records, as providing fraudulent information can result in denial and future ineligibility.
Even when using a service provider, visiting the official Information and Appointment website (https://ais.usvisa-info.com/) is recommended for updates and official visa information. This site allows access to the DS-160 form, registration for service, selection of payment options, and interview scheduling.
The B1/B2 tourist visa application fee is $185 USD, payable via credit card on the website or at Scotiabank branches.
On interview day, each family member must present a valid passport (with at least six months validity), a passport photo (white background/no glasses), and a DS-160 barcode page matching their appointment booking. Minor applicants need to provide a polymer birth certificate.
Additional documents showing economic, social, and family ties in Trinidad and Tobago may be brought but might not be requested by officers.
Applicants who uploaded photos electronically still need to bring recent passport photos (less than six months old) without spectacles. If new photos are required via courier, processing delays of two weeks may occur.
Approved visas mean passports return within seven to ten business days; immediate travel plans should be communicated to officers.
For specific inquiries, applicants can use the consular navigator at tt.usembassy.gov/visas/.