The most important thing is the official invitation letter from US. There are many other supporting documents, such as family photo, marriage certificate, bank saving, income tax receipt, to name a few. Based on my experience and guideline from company, those are optional, but prepare and bring along just in case. Another important item is fee - remember to pay 904CNY in any CITIC branch. I did see someone on hot spot realized he didn't pay the fee, especially after hours of waiting in the line! To apply for a visa in Shanghai, first I need call to make reservation. The call is pre-paid. I got my reservation number and scheduled time. Both are useless. Only the date is important. On that day, I arrived the Shanghai USA Consular. It is conveniently located nearby Metro #2 West Nanjing Road station, and surprisingly on 8th floor in the Westgate Shopping Mall. First waited outside in the line. Squeezed in the elevator. Another waiting in the line in elevator lobby. After reservation c...