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Originally Posted On: https://innewsweekly.com/an-overview-of-the-different-types-of-visas/
Everyone wants to come to the United States. And why wouldn’t they?
The USA is the land of opportunities. Americans have a long tradition of generosity toward people in need. And the government has set up generous programs for accepting immigrants and asylum seekers.
The only problem is that it can be rather complicated to arrange your internationally-minded life around American immigration laws.
Visiting the USA can be as simple as buying a plane ticket. But getting a proper visa that will allow you to make your home there is more complicated.
We’ll take a look at the different types of visas available for foreign residents wanting to live in the United States. Read on!
Tourist Visa
A tourist visa allows a person to enter the U.S. for up to six months to engage in tourism and recreational activities. For example, sightseeing, visiting friends or family, shopping, and attending events.
The traveler may also engage in limited activities for business purposes. These are attending a conference, consulting with a business associate, or negotiating a contract.
Tourists may refrain from gaining employment while on a tourist visa in the United States. You must have a valid passport, travel itinerary, and proof of enough funds to support your stay in the U.S.
To be eligible, you must meet several requirements. These include a completed application form, a valid passport, and proof of financial resources. Applicants must also provide evidence of the purpose of their trip, such as a copy of their itinerary.
An interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate is also needed. There are extra requirements for those under 14 and over 79. It includes criminal background checks and other document requirements. Extra fees may apply depending on the length of stay and the purpose of travel.
Work Visa
Work visas are a type of entry visa for those hoping to come to the United States to perform temporary or permanent work. There are several categories of work visas, including H-1, L-1, and O-1.
The H-1 visa is a particular category issued to persons of extraordinary ability, outstanding professors and researchers, and managers and executives. The L-1 visa is for managers and executives transferring within the same company with the same U.S. job opportunities and responsibilities. The O-1 visa is for individuals who prove extraordinary ability in their field. such as journalists, scientists, actors, and athletes.
Each type of work visa has different requirements, including proof of intention to return to their home countries and other regulations. Depending on the type of work, it has limits to specific times and locations.
Generally, they will issue the visa anywhere from 3 months to 3 years. For more extended contracts, sponsorship is also one of the requirements from the employer.
Student Type
Student visas, also known as F-1 visas, are for those international students wishing to pursue an academic or language program of study in the United States. The requirements for obtaining one are rigorous. Students must meet specific educational and financial benchmarks to qualify for this type.
It is important to note that it is a nonimmigrant passes. It means that visa holders are usually limited in the time they are granted to remain in the United States. Also, students holding one are typically only allowed to work with obtaining more documentation or authorization.
The application process begins with obtaining an acceptance letter from a U.S. university. Once they received it, the student should complete and submit the student visa application form. During the interview, the applicant must prove that they can pay for their tuition, books, supplies, and living expenses.
Applicants must also show that they are able to stay in the U.S. for the period of the visa and return home to their home country when it expires. Also, they must show that they are not a threat to U.S. national security and have valid intentions of entering.
Business Type
It entitles individuals to stay in the country for a determined period. It is to attend business meetings, negotiate contracts, consult with associates, and perform other activities related to business interests. Business visas generally fall into four categories: B-1, B-2, E-1, and E-2.
The B-1 visa is short-term and lasts up to six months. It applies to individuals attending business meetings or consultations. The B-2 visa is a longer-term visa valid for up to one year and covers individuals entering the U.S. for pleasure or tourism.
The E-1 is the same as the E2 visa. They are for those foreign nationals of countries with trade agreements with the U.S.
These are good for up to five years.
It usually requires applicants to show proof of substantial financial resources and an essential purpose for entering the country. A consulate or embassy must approve all applications.
The application process depends on the nature of the traveler’s visit, the length of time they intend to stay, and the type of documentation they can provide. Applicants should submit a passport, valid visa, and proof of both temporary and permanent residence when they apply. Depending on the requirement, they will also have to provide evidence of financial resources and/or a letter of invitation from the company they plan to visit.
There are other requirements that you must give depending on the type of visa. It can be a validation letter from the applicant’s employer or employee registration records.
Marriage and Extended Family
It is generally designed for individuals living abroad permanently. Individuals must be married to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident of the United States to be eligible for this type. It is also possible for a foreign national to apply if they are really related to the individual already in the States.
If an individual is related through familial ties, they may be eligible for an Extended Family Visa. It can be a parent, grandparent, sibling, adult son or daughter, aunt, uncle, cousin, or in-law. Those who qualify for it may remain in the United States for an additional two years.
The petitioning spouse to be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident to qualify for a spousal visa. Applicants must provide evidence of a legally recognized marriage.
The extended family visa requires a more rigorous application process that involves completing a form and submitting documents. It includes birth certificates and proof of family relationships. Also, it would help if you met medical, employment, and financial requirements.
The application process usually takes six to eight months, but the first step is to consult an immigration lawyer. They can help you gather all the necessary information and documents. Once all the necessary paperwork is complete and they approved the application, the applicant can enter the U.S. and begin the next steps in the process.
Exchange Visitor
These are available for students, au pairs, and those participating in educational and cultural programs in the U.S. This type is for individuals who plan to stay in the U.S. for a short period to join in a cultural exchange or educational program approved by the Department of State.
Exchange visitors can only stay in the United States for up to 18 months, although exceptions apply. They are subject to J-1 visa regulations and must have the necessary supporting documents. It includes letters of support from the sponsoring organization and proof of adequate finances.
To obtain a J-1 visa, individuals must receive a valid Certificate of Eligibility from the program sponsor. Also, they must receive international health insurance coverage for their stay.
Diplomatic Visa Process
A diplomatic visa is a special visa issued to foreign government officials and their families traveling to the United States on official business. Unlike other types, it prioritizes the safety and security of foreign officials and those traveling with them. These are usually granted for a predetermined period and will not change or extend under any circumstances.
Diplomats are not allowed to seek any form of employment while in the U.S., nor are they permitted to establish residency. They are usually issued only to those representing their governments in international forums to achieve diplomatic priorities.
With this, foreign diplomats are generally entitled to privileges unavailable to other visa holders. It includes immunity from prosecution, taxes, and duties.
The process for obtaining one requires that a formal diplomatic note be sent. On official government letterhead, you must send it to the United States Embassy or Consulate in the applicant’s home country. The letter should specify the length of time the person will be in the USA.
It must also indicate the purpose and activities of their visit and the country they represent. Once the applicant pays the fees and the letter is approved, the applicant will get one.
Types of Visas that You Must Know
Overall, USA types of visas come in many shapes and sizes, and the chosen type will depend on many different factors. Many helpful resources are available to help one determine the best for their specific needs. If you need assistance navigating the U.S. visa system’s complexities, consider reaching out to a U.S. immigration attorney for guidance.
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