Any tips on getting a visitors visa for the US from Chile?

Question

what is the best way to go about it? what helps you, what hurts you?

Answer 1

best to read here and follow the steps.

www.unitedstatesvisas.gov/ www.unitedstatesvisas.gov/

www.immigration.com/

www.uscis.gov/ www.uscis.gov/

Answer 2

Quite simply, you need substantial ties to another country. In your case, Chile.  Substantial ties is most frequently associated with an income stream, like a job. Let's assume you have a good job. Prove it.  Documents that you don't generate are best.  Social security, taxes, other government-issued documents that indicate you receive income.

Couple of asides:  A huge bank account isn't worth much for this purpose- what's to keep you from drawing it all out and staying int he USA? Ditto a shoebox full of currency.  A record of a successful business is good, but make sure you can demonstrate that YOU are the same as the business,

Judging from your command of English, I think you're fairly well-educated. That probably indicates you have something going for you in Chile. Bring evidence of that.  

Letters of recommendation from your priest, your mayor, your university professor(s) are good, but do not guarantee you'll return to Chile after a visit. Others before you have documented their saintliness and civic merit. And have overstayed nonetheless.

Be prepared to answer truthfully about your ties- Do you have a sibling who's a resident of the USA? Do you have a boyfriend or girlfriend in the USA? Are you married? Where is your spouse and/or children? Will they accompany you on this visit?

Have you ever been to the USA?  Even if it was a long time ago as a child with your parents, that helps. If so, don't forget your expired passport with admission stamp(s).

I wouldn't fret much about the purpose- everyone has a good reason to visit- Disneyland or the Grand Canyon are common reasons. If you plan to visit some universities in order to try for a student visa, that's OK, too.  

Dress nicely, but don't overdo the clothing issue. Bring your passport and documents that show your ties to Chile. (See above).  Be on time. Be prepared for delays. (This is the "hurry up and wait" kind of government.)  

Good luck!