- Visas are obtained from U.S. consuls abroad. It certifies the visa holder has been examined and is permitted to seek permission to the US.
- There are two types of visas: immigrant and nonimmigrant visas.
- Immigrant visas are issued after you have established eligibility. They are for permanent residency. It has a six-month validity period during which time the immigrant must apply for admission.
- To get an immigrant visa, the foreign citizen must be sponsored by a U.S. citizen relative, a U.S. lawful permanent resident (LPR), or by a prospective employer. The person also has to be the “beneficiary” of an approved petition.
- Nonimmigrant visas are for international travelers or businesspeople coming to the U.S. temporarily. Common types of nonimmigrant visas are: Business visitors (B-1), Tourism, vacation, pleasure visitors (B-2) Students (F).
- People from certain countries can enter the U.S. for up to 90 days as a visitor for business or pleasure without first getting a visa. This is called the visa waiver program (VWP). However, if you enter on the VWP there are no extensions or change of status.
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| Visas are obtained from United States embassies or consulates abroad. |
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| Students who intend to study in in the U.S. temporarily may qualify for an F Visa. |
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