United States visas are needed by citizens of foreign countries in order to enter the United States. The U.S. Department of State is responsible for these consular affairs. Visas indicate that your application has been reviewed by a U.S. consular officer at an American embassy or consulate, and that the officer has determined you are eligible to enter the country for a specific purpose.

A United States visa does not guarantee entry to the country but allows the individual to travel to the United States as far as a port of entry. The immigration officer at the airport or land border crossing determines if the traveler will be granted admission to the United States. They are the only people who have the authority to admit foreign travelers to the United States. Immigration officials also decide how long individuals are permitted to remain in the country for a particular visit. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security oversees all immigration matters. Application requirements for B-2 Tourist Visas became more strict following the terrorist attacks of 9/11. Citizens of Visa Waiver countries are allowed to enter the United States visa-free for up to 90 days. Check if you qualify for the Visa Waiver Program.

U.S. Visa Types
There are two main types of United States visas: Immigrant Visas and Non-Immigrant Visas.

• Immigrant Visas: These are for people who intend to live permanently in the United States without any time limitations.
• Non-Immigrant Visas: These are for people with permanent residence outside of the United States but who wish to be in the U.S. on a temporary basis.

Temporary stays in the U.S. are usually for temporary work or study, tourism, medical treatment or business.

To obtain a United States Non-Immigrant visa, such as a Tourist Visa or Student Visa, applicants must show that they qualify by law under the provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act. The presumption of this law is that every visitor visa holder is an intending immigrant, so applicants must overcome this presumption by demonstrating the following about their trip to the United States:

1. The visa is needed for business, tourism or medical treatment

2. The visitor plans to stay for a specific and limited time

3. The applicant has a residence outside of the United States and also binding ties that ensure their return abroad at the end of the visit

U.S. Immigration Support offers an extensive list of downloadable U.S. visa application guides. Use the left navigation menu to select the United States visa(s) you would like to apply for. With our system it is easy to download the application and complete it according to the clear and detailed instructions provided. Once these steps are completed, all that is remaining is for you to submit your application to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country for processing.

Do not hesitate to contact us if you require any assistance with U.S. visa application.