For non-citizens to visit or live in the United States legally, you need the right visa. This guide explains the different types of US visas in simple terms, so you can choose the one that fits your needs.
Living in the U.S. Short-Term
If you want to visit the United States but plan to go home, you’ll need a nonimmigrant visa, which is like a temporary pass to the U.S., with different types for different reasons. They can include:
- Tourist Visa (B-2). Perfect for sightseeing, visiting family and friends, or just having fun on vacation.
- Business Visa (B-1). Have a meeting to attend or a deal to close? This visa lets you do business for a short time.
- Student Visa (F). This visa lets you enroll in a full-time program at an approved school in the U.S., while you get an education.
- Temporary Worker Visa (H, L). If you have skills the U.S. needs, this visa lets you work in specific jobs.
- Exchange Program Visa (J). Learn about American culture with this visa, for cultural exchange programs.
- Transit Visa ©. If you have to pass through the U.S. when traveling to another country or place, this visa lets you do that.
Living in the U.S. Long-Term
If you are planning on staying in the U.S. for good, then you’ll need an immigrant visa. Unlike visas for short visits, this one allows permanent residency.
Obtaining an Immigrant Visa
The process of obtaining an immigrant visa can be complex and time-consuming, but it is possible with careful planning and preparation. Steps are also better completed with the help of an experienced immigration lawyer, and will include:
- Determine your eligibility. Figure out which category of immigration visa you are eligible for. Categories include:
- Family-Sponsored Immigration. If you have close relatives who are US citizens or green card holders, they can sponsor you to come and live with them permanently.
- Employment-Based Immigration. If you are a skilled professional, and your services are in high demand in the U.S., a company can sponsor you for a green card if you have the right qualifications.
- Diversity Visa Lottery. If you would like a chance to live in the U.S. without being sponsored, you can enter the annual lottery for a limited number of green cards that are available to people from countries with low immigration rates.
- Gather the required documents. Once you know which visa category you are eligible for, you will need to gather the required documents. These may include proof of your identity, proof of your relationship to your sponsor (if applicable), financial documentation, and medical records.
- File your petition. File a petition with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The type of petition you will need to file will depend on your visa category.
- Attend an interview. Once your petition has been approved, you will be scheduled for an interview with a USCIS officer. The interview is your chance to explain your reasons for wanting to immigrate to the United States, and to demonstrate your eligibility for the visa category you applied for.
Immigration Support from IDG Legal
If you want to apply for a short-term or long-term visa but are not sure where to start, IDG Legal Legal’s preferred immigration lawyer is here to help.
They can assist with a list of immigration issues – free of charge – and guide you through the process. Tap below to fill out a form for assistance.
