Which Visa Do You Need for a Trip to the USA: Types, Features, and Tips

How to Obtain a U.S. Visa on Your Own?

Each person has their own story of applying for a visa. Experiences can vary — for some, it was a straightforward process, while others faced unexpected rejections. However, overall, the U.S. visa system is considered fair.

If you want to apply for a visa but are unsure where to start, don't worry. Below, you'll find all the necessary and up-to-date information on this topic.

Types of U.S. Visas

Before diving into specifics, it's important to understand that U.S. visas are divided into two main categories:

• Non-immigrant Visas — for those planning a temporary stay in the U.S.
• Immigrant Visas — for those intending to reside permanently in the U.S.

The U.S. attracts visitors for its tourist attractions, medical facilities, business opportunities, and a variety of training and educational programs. Therefore, before traveling, determine the purpose of your visit. Your objective will dictate the type of visa you need to apply for.

For anything other than permanent residency, a non-immigrant visa is required. If you aim to move to the U.S. permanently, an immigrant visa is necessary.

American Butler is happy to provide you with details about the types of visas and the application process.

Overview of Non-Immigrant Visas

Non-immigrant visas are for those planning a temporary stay in the U.S. — whether for business, tourism, study, or work. Here are the main types of non-immigrant visas and their requirements:

Business Visa (B-1)

The U.S. is a land of opportunity for bold and creative individuals. If you're looking to expand your business and form new partnerships, a B-1 Visa is essential for:

1. 01. Attending conferences.
2. 02. Holding business meetings.
3. 03. Signing contracts.
4. 04. Buying or selling property.

Key Tips:

• Make sure you have supporting documents like invitations to meetings or proof of conference attendance.
• Be prepared to answer questions clearly, without unnecessary details or exaggeration.

Tourist Visa (B-2)

The most popular visa of all. The B-2 Visa is necessary for travel and tourism purposes. Currently, U.S. consulates issue a combined B-1/B-2 Visa, but each requires separate documentation and justification.

You need a B-2 Visa if you:

1. 01. Visit relatives or friends.
2. 02. Wish to explore U.S. landmarks.
3. 03. Attend short lectures not exceeding 18 hours per week.
4. 04. Plan to give birth in the U.S.
5. 05. Seek medical treatment in America.

Do not hesitate to inform the consulate about seeking medical care in the U.S. Provide medical documentation and proof of financial support for the trip. This should suffice for a visa officer. After discharge from a medical facility, obtain payment confirmation to avoid future entry issues.

Keep in mind that all B-2 applicants are seen as potential immigrants, so you must prove ties to your home country. This may include property, stable employment, or family members who remain at home.

For a successful interview, maintain a friendly demeanor, a courteous smile, and show a travel history.

Student Visa (F-1, M-1)

Planning to study in the U.S.? A student visa might be required to attend top educational institutions.

• F-1 — for university, college, or language courses.
• M-1 — for non-academic or vocational training programs.

The advantage of these visas is that they can be extended to family members (spouse and children under 21), allowing them to stay with you, though they are not permitted to work. Answer questions confidently and truthfully to secure a chance to study at the best universities.

Work Visa (H, L, P, O, Q)

This visa is for temporary work and is usually valid for two years. Applicants must meet specific qualifications and have a U.S. employer sponsor.

Primary Categories:

• H-1B — for professionals in specialized fields.
• L-1 — for intra-company transferees.
• O — for individuals with extraordinary abilities in science, art, or sports.

This is one of the most expensive visas, with a $190 consular fee, compared to $160 for other non-immigrant visas. Employer sponsorship is often necessary.

Exchange Program Visa (J-1)

The J-1 Visa is intended for students, interns, teachers, and experts in science, culture, arts, or education. Its purpose is to facilitate cultural and professional exchanges.

No consular fee is charged if the program is government-funded.

Transit Visa (C-1)

If your destination is not the U.S. but your route passes through it, and you do not have a B-1/B-2 visa, a C-1 Visa is required.

For a transit visa, provide travel tickets and a valid visa for your final destination.

Media Visa (I)

For journalists, cameramen, and other media professionals working in the U.S., an I Visa is needed. Employers must submit a request specifying the employee’s name, role, nature of the task, and duration of the stay.

For personal visits, photographers and videographers can apply for a B-2 Visa, provided they do not intend to profit from their activities in the U.S.

Immigrant Visas: Moving to the USA

Immigrant visas allow foreign nationals to move to the United States permanently. Unlike non-immigrant visas, which are granted for temporary stays, immigrant visas offer the opportunity to gain lawful permanent resident status (Green Card). Here’s a detailed overview of the main categories of immigrant visas to help you choose the right one based on your situation.

Family-Based Visas

These visas are for relatives of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. Family-based visas are among the most common ways to obtain a Green Card.

• IR-1 and CR-1: These visas allow spouses of U.S. citizens to receive permanent residency status.
• IR-2 and CR-2: These are for children of U.S. citizens under 21 years old who are unmarried.
• F1, F2, F3, F4: These visas cover adult children over 21 and spouses of U.S. citizens.

Tip: Family-based visas require sponsorship from a U.S. citizen or resident, who must prove they can financially support the applicant.

Employment-Based Visas

These visas are designed for skilled professionals, investors, and workers whose expertise is in demand in the U.S. The main employment-based categories include:

• EB-1: For individuals with extraordinary abilities who have made significant achievements in sciences, arts, sports, business, or research. This category also includes outstanding researchers and top-level executives of multinational companies.
• EB-2: For professionals with advanced degrees and exceptional abilities. Requires at least a Master's degree or equivalent professional skills. It also includes the National Interest Waiver (NIW) category for those whose skills benefit the U.S.
• EB-3: For skilled workers and professionals. This category requires specific qualifications or a minimum of two years of professional experience.
• EB-4: For special immigrants, including religious workers, translators, employees of international organizations, and other unique categories.

Refugee and Asylum Visas

The U.S. offers asylum and refugee status to individuals facing persecution in their home countries due to race, religion, nationality, social group membership, or political beliefs.

• Refugees: Applications are made outside the U.S. Refugees can apply for a Green Card after one year of residency in the U.S.
• Asylum Seekers: Applications are made within U.S. territory. Once granted, asylees can apply for a Green Card after one year.

Tip: To qualify for this status, applicants must provide evidence of persecution in their home country.

Diversity Visa Lottery (Green Card Lottery)

The Diversity Visa (DV) program grants up to 50,000 visas annually to individuals from countries with low immigration rates to the U.S. Winners are chosen randomly, but they must still go through the standard visa application process.

• Advantages: No need for a sponsor or employer.
• Restrictions: Participants must have at least a high school education or two years of work experience in a qualified profession.

Tip: The DV program is a random opportunity, but thorough preparation for the interview and proper documentation is essential.

Special Immigrant Categories

Some visas are available for specific groups of individuals:

• T-Visa: For victims of human trafficking.
• U-Visa: For victims of violent crimes.
• IW-Visa: For widows or widowers of U.S. citizens.

Tip: These visas have specialized requirements and procedures. Consulting an immigration attorney can simplify the application process.

Investments in the U.S. and Business Visas

If you’re considering investing in the U.S. economy, there are specialized E-category visas available. These non-immigrant visas are intended for citizens of countries that have treaties of commerce and navigation with the United States. The visas are divided into several categories based on the purpose of the visit:

E-1 (Treaty Trader Visa)

A visa for traders engaged in substantial international trade between their home country and the U.S.

Requirements:

• There must be a treaty of commerce between the applicant's country and the U.S.
• At least 50% of the company’s trade should involve the U.S.
• Trade can include goods, services, banking, transportation, and more.

E-2 (Treaty Investor Visa)

For investors who wish to make significant financial contributions to a U.S. business.

Requirements:

• Investments must be substantial and aimed at developing an economically active enterprise.
• The applicant must control the business (own at least 50% of the company).
• Investments should generate a significant economic impact, including creating jobs for U.S. citizens.

E-3 (Australian Specialty Occupation Visa)

Specifically for Australian citizens seeking temporary work in specialized professions in the U.S.

Requirements:

• The applicant must be an Australian citizen.
• The job offer must be in a specialized field requiring a higher education degree or equivalent experience.
• The employer needs to file a petition for the visa.

E-4 (Special Immigrant Visa)

This visa applies to certain special categories of immigrants, such as religious workers, translators, international organization employees, and more.

Details:

• This category is more aligned with immigration, falling under broader categories like the EB-4 (immigrant visa).

E-5 (Immigrant Investor Visa)

For foreign investors who aim to obtain a Green Card through investments in the U.S.

Requirements:

• Investments range from $800,000 to $1,050,000 in a new commercial enterprise in the U.S.
• The investment must create at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. citizens.
• This is an immigrant visa, enabling successful investors to acquire permanent resident status in the U.S.

Key Differences Among E Visas:

• E-1 and E-2 visas are only available to citizens of countries with specific trade or investment treaties with the U.S.
• E-3 is exclusive to Australian citizens.
• E-5 is an immigrant visa, allowing for permanent residence in the U.S., unlike other E-category visas that are temporary.

By understanding the nuances of these visa categories, you can choose the best route that aligns with your investment and business goals in the U.S.

Visa Application Process for the U.S.

The process of obtaining a U.S. visa involves several key steps:

1. 01. Determine the Purpose of Your Visit
   Identifying the reason for your trip will help you select the appropriate visa category (e.g., tourist, business, student, work).
2. 02. Gather Necessary Documents
   Essential documents include a valid passport, recent photographs, proof of trip purpose, financial stability, relationship verification (for family visas), or job offer letters.
3. 03. Complete the DS-160 Form (DS-260 for Immigrant Visas)
   Ensure all information provided is accurate and truthful, as this form is crucial for your application.
4. 04. Pay the Visa Application Fee
   The fee varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for.
5. 05. Undergo a Medical Examination
   Certain visa categories require a medical check-up at approved medical facilities.
6. 06. Attend an Interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate
   Prepare for questions about your travel purpose, background, and plans in the U.S.