Visa Information Center
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Purpose

For travelers visiting the United States for leisure, tourism, or to visit family and friends.

Duration

Typically 6 months, but can vary depending on the nature of the visit.

Common Requirements

• Travel itinerary (flight and hotel reservations)
• Proof of funds to support yourself during the trip
• Travel insurance
• Sometimes, a return ticket to show you plan to leave the U.S.

Example Countries

U.S. (B-2 Visa for tourism), etc.

Use this visa if: You want to visit the United States for vacation, sightseeing, or visiting loved ones.

Purpose

For international students who want to study at an accredited educational institution in the U.S.

Duration

Usually lasts for the duration of the academic program, up to 5 years or more.

Common Requirements

• Proof of acceptance into a U.S. university/school
• Evidence of funds to cover tuition and living expenses in the U.S.
• Health insurance
• Proof of proficiency in English (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS)
• Proof of no criminal record

Example Countries

U.S. (F-1 Visa for students), etc.

Use this visa if: You’ve been accepted into a U.S. school or university and want to pursue a degree or academic program.

Purpose

For individuals seeking to work in the United States, either temporarily or long-term.

Duration

Varies depending on the job and visa type (typically 1 to 6 years).

Common Requirements

• Job offer or employment contract from a U.S. employer
• Proof of qualifications or skills related to the job
• Evidence of relevant work experience
• Health check (sometimes required)
• Visa fee and processing time

Example Countries

U.S. (H-1B Visa for skilled workers), etc.

Use this visa if: You have a job offer from a U.S. company and wish to work in the United States.

Purpose

For business professionals traveling to the U.S. to attend meetings, conferences, or negotiate deals.

Duration

Usually short-term (a few weeks or months).

Common Requirements

• Invitation letter from a U.S. company or event organizers
• Proof of business activities (e.g., registration documents, contracts)
• Travel and accommodation arrangements
• Proof of sufficient funds for the trip

Example Countries

U.S. (B-1 Visa for business visitors), etc.

Use this visa if: You are traveling to the U.S. for business purposes such as meetings, negotiations, or conferences.

Purpose

For travelers passing through the United States on their way to another destination, without staying for an extended period.

Duration

Short-term (usually a few days or less).

Common Requirements

• Proof of travel to a third country (flight tickets, itinerary)
• Proof of your stay at the U.S. airport or approved transit area
• Sometimes a visa fee or specific travel insurance

Example Countries

U.S. (C-1 Visa for transit), etc.

Use this visa if: You are passing through the U.S. on your way to another country.

Purpose

For family members (spouses, children, parents) of individuals who already reside in the U.S. (either as citizens or residents).

Duration

Typically matches the primary visa holder’s duration of stay.

Common Requirements

• Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage or birth certificate)
• Evidence of the primary visa holder’s status (work, student, permanent resident)
• Financial support documents

Example Countries

U.S. (F-2 Visa for dependents of H-1B visa holders), etc.

Use this visa if: You are joining a family member in the U.S. who is already working, studying, or residing there.

Purpose

For individuals seeking medical treatment in the U.S. This visa allows you to stay temporarily for medical care.

Duration

Temporary; often based on the length of medical treatment.

Common Requirements

• Medical documents showing the need for treatment in the U.S.
• Proof of financial capability to cover medical expenses
• Accommodation and travel plans

Example Countries

U.S., etc.

Use this visa if: You need to travel to the U.S. for medical treatment or consultations.

Purpose

For individuals fleeing persecution, war, or natural disasters in their home country and seeking asylum or refugee status in the U.S.

Duration

Usually long-term or permanent, depending on the situation.

Common Requirements

• Proof of persecution or fear of persecution in your home country
• Application for asylum or refugee status
• Screening process and interview (if required)

Example Countries

U.S., etc.

Use this visa if: You are seeking refuge or asylum in the U.S. due to persecution or a life-threatening situation in your home country.

Purpose

For government officials, diplomats, or individuals working for international organizations traveling to the U.S. on official business.

Duration

Varies based on the diplomatic mission or international work.

Common Requirements

• Official government or organizational documentation
• Invitation or authorization from the U.S. government or international organization

Example Countries

U.S., etc.

Use this visa if: You are a government official or diplomat traveling to the U.S. for official purposes.

Steps to Choose the Right Visa:

• Determine the Purpose of Your Visit: Whether it’s for tourism, work, study, or something else, this will dictate the type of visa.
• Research the Specific USA Requirements: Check the U.S. embassy website for the specific requirements for your visa type.
• Consider the Duration of Stay: Some visas are short-term, while others (e.g., work, student visas) are long-term.
• Check Visa Eligibility: Some countries may have restrictions or additional requirements based on your nationality.