US Visa

If you are seeking entry to the United States there are many different visa categories to consider depending on your purpose of travel. Each visa category has specific eligibility requirements and application procedures.

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Visa categories

Whether you're visiting the USA for an extended period as a tourist, business traveler, employee of a U.S.-based company, student, or intern, it's crucial to select the appropriate US visa based on the purpose and duration of your stay. Specifically, you'll require a nonimmigrant visa, which permits you to remain in the USA for a specified period.

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Tourists and business travelers

When embarking on a journey to the US for either tourism or business endeavors, you are faced with the decision between two options: obtaining an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) or applying for a visa. Choosing between an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) and a visa depends on various factors such as your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and the duration of your stay.

Visa Waiver Program / ESTA

The visa waiver program is a U.S. government initiative that allows citizens of certain countries to travel to the United States for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa. It was created to promote tourism and business travel to the United States, and currently includes 39 countries, primarily in western Europe and parts of Asia.

Click here to learn more about the Visa Waiver Program / ESTA.


It's important to note that while an ESTA allows for visa-free travel for eligible individuals, a visa may be required for travelers from countries not in the Visa Waiver Program or for those who do not meet the requirements for ESTA. Additionally, specific documentation and proof of purpose may be necessary for both tourist and business visas.

Applying for a US Visa

When applying for a US visa, you must go through the following application steps:

  • Visa Category
    You must identify the type of visa you need depending on the purpose of your visit such as work, study or tourism.
  • Submit form DS-160
    Complete the online Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) form and pay the visa application fee. This form must be submitted to the US authorities electronically. You must create an account with the Visa Information Service CGI which can later be used to pay fees and schedule appointments.
  • Interview at a US embassy or consulate
    You must schedule an appointment for an interview at the nearest US embassy or consulate.
  • Prepare all necessary documents
    You must prepare all necessary documents like your passport, photograph, and supporting documents related to the purpose of your visit and attend the interview with the visa officer.
  • After the interview
    Wait for your visa to be approved. The US consulate will keep your passport and send it back to your address.

Make sure to start the application process well in advance, as visa applications can take several weeks or even months to be processed.

Visa requirements

The requirements for obtaining a US visa may vary depending on the purpose of your visit. Generally, applicants must fill out an application form, pay a fee, provide a valid passport, and attend an interview at a US embassy or consulate. You must also demonstrate a genuine intention to return to your home country after the visit which means you may need to provide additional documents such as proof of income, travel itinerary, and health insurance. Additional screening may be required for applicants from certain countries or backgrounds.

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Non-immigrant Visas

Non-immigrant visas are temporary visas for travellers who wish to stay in the United States for a specific purpose and a limited period of time. These visas include categories such as tourist visas, student visas, business visas, and work visas. The application process for non-immigrant visas typically involves filling out an online application, scheduling an interview at a US embassy or consulate, and submitting supporting documents. The specific requirements and eligibility criteria for each type of non-immigrant visa may vary depending on the purpose of your visit.

Here is a list of the main US Visa categories for traveling to the United States:

Tourism/Visit and Temporary Business (B1 / B2 Visa)

The B1/B2 visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows you to enter the United States temporarily for business (B1) or pleasure/tourism (B2) purposes. With this visa, you can stay in the U.S. for up to six months, unless a shorter period is granted by the immigration officer at the port of entry. The B1 visa can be used to attend business meetings or negotiations, participate in short-term training or to consult with business associates. The B2 visa is for travellers who want to enter the US for tourism, visiting friends or relatives, attending social events or seeking medical treatment.

B1 / B2 Visa
Who can apply You
Permitted activities Tourism, Business, visiting relatives, medical treatment, enrollment in a short course of study
Where to apply At a US consulate
Student Visa (F1 / M1 Visa)

The United States is one of the primary destinations for international students. F1 and M1 are both types of student visas. The F1 visa is for academic students while the M1 visa is for vocational students. Both visas allow you to study in a US institution and work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week. The F1 visa also allows you to work off-campus under certain circumstances while holders of the M1 visa are not allowed to work off-campus unless they have an approved practical training program. The F1 visa allows you to stay in the US up to 60 days after finishing your academic program. The M1 visa allows you to stay in the USA for up to one year (plus a 30-day departure period), or for as long as you are enrolled as a full-time student.

F1 / M1 Visa
Who can apply You
Permitted activities Studying at universities, colleges, high schools, language schools and elementary schools
Where to apply At a US consulate
Application for a Student Visa

To apply for a Student Visa you need an acceptance letter from a school or university in the US. Then you must complete the online application on the website of the US embassy or consulate in your country of residence. You must pay the application fee and schedule an interview at the embassy. During the interview, you'll need to provide documents proving your intention to leave the US after your studies and your financial stability to support yourself during your studies. If approved, you'll receive your visa and can begin preparing for your studies in the US.

Exchange visitor / Internships (J Visa)

The J Visa allows you to participate in cultural exchange programs in the United States. This type of visa can be used to work and study in the US for a limited period, usually up to 12 months. To apply for a J visa, you must first be accepted into a J-1 Exchange Visitor Program by a designated sponsor organization. The sponsor organization will provide you with Form DS-2019, which you need to complete in order to obtain a J visa. You also need to complete the online DS-160 Nonimmigrant Visa Application, pay the application fee, schedule an interview and attend and interview at you local U.S. consulate or embassy with the required documents, including your DS-2019, passport and a proof of financial support. If approved, you will be issued a J visa and can travel to the United States.

J Visa
Who can apply You with the help of a sponsor organization
Permitted activities Participating in exchange visitor programs
Where to apply At a US consulate
Employment Visas (H, L, O, P, Q Visa)

Temporary work visas provide a unique opportunity to come to the United States for temporary work or cultural exchange. Here are the various categories of work visas in the US:

H Visa

The H visa is a visa for professionals to work in a specialty occupation. It requires a higher education degree or its equivalent.

Temporary Workers (L visa)

The L Visa allows companies to transfer foreign employees to their offices in the United States. It includes two categories: L-1A for executives and managers and L-1B for professionals with specialized knowledge. To qualify, the employee must have worked for the company for at least one year before the transfer and the employer must show that the employee's skills and knowledge are needed in the US office. The visa is initially granted for up to three years and can be extended up to seven years for L-1A visa holders and five years for L-1B visa holders.

Individuals with Extraordinary Ability (O Visa)

The O Visa is a temporary work visa that is available to people who possess extraordinary abilities in the sciences, arts, education, business, athletics, motion picture, and television fields. This visa may also be granted to people who have achieved national or international recognition in their field. To qualify for an O visa, you must provide evidence of your outstanding achievements, such as published work, awards, or professional memberships.

Athletes/Entertainers (P visa)

The P Visa allows athletes, artists, entertainers, and their support staff to temporarily work in the United States. The P visa is divided into three categories: P-1 for athletes and entertainment groups, P-2 for artists and entertainers in reciprocal exchange programs, and P-3 for artists and entertainers who perform culturally unique performances. The duration of the visa depends on the length of the event or performance and can be extended for up to five years.

Cultural Exchange (Q Visa)

The Q Visa is intended for Participant in an International Cultural Exchange Program It allows applicants to participate in cultural exchange programs in the United States. This visa is specifically designed for international cultural exchange programs that promote the sharing of knowledge, skills, and cultural experiences. It is available to people who are invited to participate in programs that are sponsored by U.S. organizations, businesses, or educational institutions. The Q visa is valid for up to 15 months, and can be extended for an additional 15 months, for a total of 30 months.

H, L, O, P, Q Visa
Who can apply You with the help of a sponsor organization
Permitted activities Participating in exchange visitor programs
Where to apply At a US consulate

Immigrant Visa (Green Card)

Having a U.S. Permanent Resident Card, commonly known as a Green Card, grants you the privilege to reside and work in the United States indefinitely. As a holder of the Green Card, you enjoy nearly all the rights of a U.S. citizen and have the opportunity to pursue citizenship after residing in the USA for five years. Thus, the Green Card serves as your gateway to the land of your dreams!

The four main types of Green Cards

here are many different Green Card options available depending on your specific situation.
Here are the four main types of Green Cards:

Green Card Lottery
Who Yourself
Where We submit your Application
Obstacles Very few
Employment-based Green Card
Who Your employer in the US
Where U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Obstacles Long wait times and significant uncertainty
Family-based Green Card
Who Your relative*
Where U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Obstacles Long wait times
Investment-based Green Card
Who Yourself
Where U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Obstacles Minimum investment of $800,000

*Your relative must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident

The Green Card serves as proof of your lawful permanent resident status in the United States. Without it, you may have difficulties accessing certain services and benefits, employment opportunities, healthcare, and educational resources. Therefore, it is important to keep your Green Card with you at all times to avoid any potential issues. If you lose your Green Card or it is stolen, it is essential to report the loss or theft to the proper authorities and apply for a replacement as soon as possible.

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