The United States has a complex and multifaceted visa system, offering various pathways for individuals to visit, work, study, or live in the country. Whether you’re seeking temporary entry for tourism or business, pursuing higher education, or aiming for permanent residency, understanding the US visa system is crucial.
This page provides a concise overview of the different visa categories and directs you to official government resources for detailed information and application procedures.
Key aspects of the US visa system include:
- Nonimmigrant Visas: For temporary visits, including tourism, business, work, and study.
- Immigrant Visas: For individuals seeking permanent residency, often through family sponsorship or employment.
- Visa Waiver Program: Allows citizens of certain countries to travel to the US for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa.
- The Diversity Visa Lottery: A program that makes a limited number of immigrant visas available to individuals from countries with low rates of immigration to the US.
Explore the links below to learn more about specific visa categories and access relevant government websites:
Service Links | Short Description |
---|---|
Employment | For permanent employment or investment by entrepreneurs |
Family Based | For certain family member(s) of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) |
B-1 | Athlete, amateur or professional (competing for prize money only) |
B-2 | Tourism, vacation, pleasure visitor |
DV | Diversity Immigrant Visa |
H-1B | Specialty occupations in fields requiring highly specialized knowledge |
F, M | Student: academic, vocational |
Apply for Asylum | Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal |