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Visitor Visas to the United States

This document provides information regarding temporary visitor permits to enter the United States. These permits are granted for various short-term purposes, including tourism, leisure, and some forms of medical treatment. Applicants must demonstrate that they qualify based on United States law.

Types of Visitor Permits

  • B-1: For business visitors engaged in activities such as consulting with business associates, attending professional or business conventions, or negotiating a contract. Compensation must not come from a U.S. source.
  • B-2: For tourism, vacation, visiting friends and relatives, medical treatment, or participating in social or recreational activities.
  • Combined B-1/B-2: A single permit covering both business and tourism purposes.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate they meet specific criteria to receive a visitor permit. Failure to meet these requirements can result in denial.

  • Intent to Depart: Applicants must prove they intend to return to their home country after their temporary stay in the U.S.
  • Sufficient Funds: Applicants must demonstrate they have sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the U.S. or provide credible assurance that such funds are available.
  • Residency Abroad: Applicants must maintain a residence outside the U.S. that they have no intention of abandoning.
  • No Intent to Immigrate: Applicants must clearly demonstrate that they do not intend to immigrate to the U.S.

Application Process

The application process typically involves several steps.

  • Form DS-160: Completion of the online Nonimmigrant Permit Application.
  • Application Fee: Payment of the required non-refundable application fee.
  • Scheduling an Interview: Scheduling an interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the applicant's country of residence (if required). Interview waiver programs may exist for certain applicants.
  • Interview: Attending the interview and answering questions truthfully and completely.
  • Document Submission: Providing required documentation to support the application, such as a passport, financial statements, and travel itinerary.

Required Documentation

Specific documentation requirements may vary, but generally include:

  • Passport: A valid passport with an expiration date at least six months beyond the intended period of stay in the U.S.
  • DS-160 Confirmation Page: The confirmation page printed after completing the online application.
  • Application Fee Receipt: Proof of payment of the application fee.
  • Photograph: A recent photograph that meets the requirements specified by the U.S. Department of State.
  • Supporting Documents: Documents that demonstrate the applicant's ties to their home country and their intent to return, such as employment verification, property ownership documents, and family records.

Denial of Application

Applications can be denied for various reasons, including failure to meet the eligibility requirements, providing false information, or having a criminal record. A previous refusal does not automatically preclude future approval, but the applicant must address the reasons for the initial denial.

Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

Citizens of certain countries may be eligible to travel to the U.S. without a through the Visa Waiver Program. This program allows stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business. An approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is required prior to travel.

Important Considerations

  • Permit validity and permitted length of stay are determined by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry.
  • Entering the U.S. does not guarantee a specific length of stay; the authorized stay is determined upon arrival.
  • It is crucial to adhere to the terms and conditions of the permit and to depart the U.S. before the authorized stay expires. Overstaying can have serious consequences, including deportation and difficulty obtaining future permits.