Updated: July 2026 · Official sources below
- MRV B1/B2 fee: US$185, non-refundable. (source)
- Next available appointment: Quito ~1.5 months · Guayaquil ~4 months (official data as of June 2026; it changes monthly). (source)
- Interview-waiver renewal: B1/B2 that expired less than 12 months ago, same class, no prior refusals. (source)
- Where: US Embassy in Quito or Consulate General in Guayaquil — you can choose either. (source)
- 10-year visa, stays of up to 180 days per visit.
What does the process involve?
The US B1/B2 visa is the most requested non-immigrant visa in the world. It allows temporary travel for tourism, family visits, medical treatment or business. The process includes completing the DS-160 form online, paying the consular fee ($185 USD), scheduling an appointment at the nearest US embassy or consulate, and attending an in-person interview with a consular officer.
Processing time varies by post and time of year. As of June 2026, the next available appointment is ~1.5 months in Quito and ~4 months in Guayaquil (official State Department data; it changes every month — check their wait-times table). Once approved, the visa is typically granted for 10 years with multiple entries, allowing stays of up to 180 days per visit.
Required Documents (Mandatory)
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
- Completed DS-160 form and printed confirmation
- DS-160 confirmation page with barcode
- Recent photo (2x2 inches, white background, no glasses)
- Consular fee payment receipt ($185 USD)
- Embassy/consulate appointment confirmation page
Optional Supporting Documents
These documents are not mandatory, but they significantly strengthen your case before the consular officer by demonstrating ties to your home country and financial capacity.
- Bank statements (last 3-6 months)
- Employment letter with position, salary and tenure
- Property ownership certificates (house, vehicle)
- Tax return from last fiscal year
- Tentative travel itinerary (flights, hotel)
- Invitation letter (if visiting someone in the US)
- Marriage certificate or children's birth certificates
- Business registration documents (if self-employed)
- Previous travel history (past visas, stamps)
- Enrollment letter (if you are a student)
📋 Key Facts
- Type: B1 (Business) / B2 (Tourism)
- Cost: $185 USD (consular fee)
- Validity: Up to 10 years, multiple entries
- Max stay: Up to 180 days per visit
- Interview: Required (in person)
📍Where to Apply?
Step 1: Online DS-160 Form
Complete the form on the official Department of State website:
ceac.state.gov/gennivStep 2: Pay fee and schedule appointment
Pay the consular fee and schedule your appointment through the appointment system:
ais.usvisa-info.comStep 3: Attend the interview
Go to the nearest US embassy or consulate on the scheduled date. Bring all your documents organized.
💡 Interview Tips
- •Be honest and concise in your answers. The consular officer values transparency.
- •Demonstrate strong ties to your country: stable employment, family, properties.
- •Bring your documents organized in a clear folder. Organization makes a good impression.
- •If your visa is denied, you can apply again. It is not a permanent "no".
Frequently asked questions
How much does the US visa cost in 2026, and what is the $250 Integrity Fee?
$185 today; a 2025 law added a $250 fee that is not yet being collected across the board as of July 2026. It would apply when the visa is issued, not at application. Budget for it in case it is implemented, and confirm with the consulate. (source)
Can I apply in Guayaquil if I live in Quito (or vice versa)?
Yes; the appointment system lets you choose the post. As of June 2026 Quito has sooner appointments (~1.5 months) than Guayaquil (~4 months). (source)
Who can renew without an interview, and what if I do not qualify?
Since October 1, 2025: B1/B2 renewal within 12 months of expiry, issued at full validity, aged 18 or older at that issuance, and applying in your country. Age exceptions were removed (under 14 and over 79 now go to interview). (source)
⚠️ If you opt for the waiver and turn out ineligible, you lose your earlier appointment.
Official Sources
- U.S. Department of State — Visitor Visas (B-1/B-2)
- CEAC — DS-160 Form (Nonimmigrant Visa Application)
- Appointment Portal — Schedule US Embassy interview
Information verified July 2026. Requirements may change. Always check official sources before applying.
Once your visa is approved, where to first?
Our guides to the cities Ecuadorian travelers love most:
Want us to help with your US visa?
At The Clubbe we are visa application experts. We review your DS-160 form, organize your supporting documents and prepare you for the consular interview. Our approval rate is exceptional.