B1/B2 visa: A US B1/B2 visa applicant holding an Indian passport and studying in Canada has shared a detailed account of his interview experience at the US Consulate in Vancouver.
The applicant, who did not wish to be identified, is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Canada on a study permit and appeared for his US tourist visa interview on January 5, 2026. His experience highlights how clarity, honesty and composure can play a crucial role during the visa process, even when paperwork details change after submitting the DS-160 form.
Permit Extension and Travel Date Changes
According to the applicant, his DS-160 was filled in May 2024, when his Canadian study permit was set to expire on December 31, 2025. He later received an extension until July 2026 due to an academic deferment, but chose not to update the DS-160 as he was close to the modification deadline and was advised that changes could be explained directly to the visa officer.
The originally stated travel plan for October 2024 had also passed by the time the interview took place. The applicant said he was prepared to clarify that his intended travel would instead be for tourism in 2027, if asked.
The appicant said, “After some waiting, went up to the 20th floor. My Visa Officer wasn’t at the desk initially, so waited a bit more.”
Inside the Visa Interview Room
The interview day began with long waits despite arriving early, followed by security screening and biometric verification. The applicant said he was briefly confused by questions around his academic timeline and program duration but clarified that he was enrolled in a bachelor’s degree rather than a short-term course.
The visa officer also asked detailed questions about his part-time job in Canada, which caught him off guard. Still, he responded honestly, explaining his role and responsibilities.
After reviewing the information, the officer approved the application on the spot.
“Okay, your visa is approved. Leave your passport here, we’ll mail it.”
Approval and Delivery Timeline
The applicant said his passport was returned within four days, arriving at his home on January 9. He noted that opting for home delivery proved useful amid postal disruptions in Canada.
Sharing the experience, the applicant said his goal was to help others understand what to expect, particularly students whose circumstances change between submitting their application and appearing for the interview.