Visitor Visa Overview - United States

Visitor Visa Overview – United States

Generally, a citizen of a foreign country wishing to enter the United States must obtain a visa—either a nonimmigrant visa for a temporary stay or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Visitor visas, categorized as B-1 for business, B-2 for tourism, or a combination of both (B-1/B-2), are nonimmigrant visas for individuals seeking temporary entry. Visitor Visa Overview – United States  

Permitted Activities with a Visitor Visa:

1. Business (B-1)
2. Tourism (B-2)

Travel Purposes Not Permitted on Visitor Visas: Visitor visas will not be issued for birth tourism—traveling for the primary purpose of giving birth in the United States to obtain U.S. citizenship for a child.

How to Apply

There are several steps to apply for a visa, and the order may vary by U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Consult the specific instructions on their website. The process includes:

1. Complete the Online Visa Application (Form DS-160).
   • Upload a photo during the application.
   • Schedule an interview, which is generally required for applicants aged 14-79.
2. Schedule an Interview
   • Interviews are generally required, with exceptions for certain age groups.
   • Schedule an appointment at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you live.
   • Be aware that applying outside your country may affect eligibility.

   Wait times for interview appointments vary, so apply early.

3. Prepare for Your Interview
   • Pay the non-refundable visa application fee.
   • Review instructions on the Embassy/Consulate website.
   • Gather required documents, including passport, DS-160 confirmation, application fee receipt, and photos.
   • Additional documentation may be required based on the purpose of your trip.
4. Attend Your Visa Interview
   • A consular officer will interview you to determine eligibility.
   • Digital fingerprint scans may be taken.
   • Further administrative processing may be required post-interview.

Entering the United States

A visa allows entry to a U.S. port-of-entry, but admission is determined by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials. A visa doesn’t guarantee entry.

Extending Your Stay

Visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website for information on extending your stay beyond the indicated date on your admission stamp or Form I-94.

Change of Status

If your plans change while in the U.S., you may request a change in nonimmigrant status through USCIS without applying for a new visa.

Additional Information

• Individuals on a visitor visa (B1/B2) are not permitted to work or accept employment in the U.S.
• There is no guarantee of visa issuance. Do not finalize travel plans until obtaining a visa.
• A valid U.S. visa in an expired passport remains valid until expiration. Do not remove it; use it with a new valid passport.

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