Visa applications require a standardized set of documents that vary slightly depending on the destination country and visa type, but several core requirements remain consistent across most jurisdictions. A valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond the intended stay is universally mandatory, as is a completed visa application form—often submitted online, such as the U.S. DS-160 or France’s visa wizard-generated form. Supporting documents typically include proof of legal residence (for non-citizens applying from a third country), financial evidence, travel itineraries, and biometric data like fingerprints and photographs. Some countries, such as China, have recently simplified requirements by eliminating the need for round-trip tickets or hotel reservations for certain visa types, while others, like Australia, impose stricter health and character checks, including FBI and state police clearances.

• Universal requirements: Valid passport (6+ months validity), completed application form (e.g., DS-160 for U.S.), passport-sized photos, and biometric data (fingerprints in most cases) ^[1][4][6].
• Country-specific variations: The U.S. requires a DS-160 confirmation barcode for interviews ^[4], France mandates in-person appointments for biometric collection ^[6], and China no longer requires itineraries for tourist (L) visas as of 2024 ^[7].
• Additional documents: Proof of legal residence (e.g., green card, I-20 for U.S.-based applicants) ^[7], financial statements, and travel insurance may be requested depending on the destination.
• Special cases: Visa Waiver Program (VWP) travelers to the U.S. need an approved ESTA (valid passport + $21 fee) instead of a visa ^[8], while U.S. citizens can enter Japan visa-free for stays under 90 days ^[9].

Visa Application Document Requirements by Country

United States Visa Requirements

The U.S. visa application process is standardized but varies slightly between nonimmigrant (e.g., B-1/B-2 tourist/business) and immigrant visas. All applicants must complete the DS-160 form online and bring the confirmation page with a barcode to their interview, a requirement enforced since April 7, 2025 ^[4]. The passport must remain valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay, though some countries (e.g., Canada, Bermuda) have exemptions ^[1]. Supporting documents are critical and may include:

• Mandatory documents for all applicants:
• Passport with at least one blank page for the visa stamp ^[1].
• DS-160 confirmation page with barcode (required for interview scheduling) ^[4].
• One 2x2 inch (51x51 mm) photograph meeting U.S. visa photo requirements ^[5].
• Receipt proving payment of the $185 nonimmigrant visa application fee (varies by visa type) ^[4].
• Supporting documents (varies by visa type):
• Proof of ties to home country (e.g., employment letter, property deeds) to demonstrate intent to return ^[1].
• Financial evidence (bank statements, tax records) to cover travel expenses ^[5].
• For business visas (B-1): Invitation letters from U.S. companies or conference organizers ^[1].
• For student visas (F-1/M-1): Form I-20 issued by the U.S. school ^[7].
• Special cases:
• ESTA for Visa Waiver Program (VWP) travelers: Citizens of 40+ countries (e.g., UK, Japan) can apply for ESTA instead of a visa, requiring a valid e-passport, $21 fee, and approval before travel ^[8].
• Diplomatic/official visas: Additional documents like a diplomatic note may be required ^[2].

Interviews are mandatory for most applicants aged 14–79, though waivers may apply for renewals under specific conditions ^[2]. Applicants must schedule interviews through the U.S. Embassy’s online system and bring all original documents, as photocopies are not accepted unless specified ^[4].

France and Schengen Zone Visa Requirements

France, as part of the Schengen Zone, enforces a uniform visa policy for short-stay (up to 90 days) and long-stay visas. The process is digital-first, with applicants required to use the France-Visas wizard to determine their specific document list before scheduling an in-person appointment ^[6]. Biometric data (fingerprints and a digital photo) is collected during the appointment, and first-time applicants must appear in person ^[6]. Key documents include:

• Core requirements for all applicants:
• Valid passport issued within the last 10 years, with at least two blank pages and 3+ months validity beyond the departure date ^[6].
• Completed and signed visa application form (generated online via France-Visas) ^[6].
• Two recent passport-sized photos (35x45 mm, white background, less than 6 months old) ^[6].
• Proof of travel medical insurance covering at least €30,000 in medical expenses and repatriation ^[6].
• Type-specific documents:
• Tourist visa (short stay): Round-trip flight reservation, hotel bookings or invitation letter from a host in France, proof of financial means (e.g., bank statements for the last 3 months) ^[6].
• Business visa: Invitation letter from the French company, proof of employment in home country, and a letter from the employer authorizing the trip ^[6].
• Student visa (long stay): Acceptance letter from a French educational institution, proof of accommodation, and evidence of sufficient funds (€615/month minimum) ^[6].
• Biometric and processing notes:
• Fingerprints are taken during the appointment and remain valid for 5 years, allowing repeat travelers to skip biometrics for subsequent applications ^[6].
• Processing time is typically 15 days, though delays may occur during peak seasons ^[6].
• Applicants must apply at the visa center responsible for their place of residence (e.g., VFS Global or TLScontact) ^[6].

France also offers biometric exemption for children under 12 and certain diplomatic passport holders, though photos are still required ^[6]. Unlike the U.S., France does not waive interviews for renewals; all applicants must submit documents in person unless exempt ^[6].