Non-Immigrant Visas

Temporary Visit

Most temporary visitors to the United States must apply for and obtain a nonimmigrant visa before beginning their journey.

There are several types of nonimmigrant visas, in order to apply for a nonimmigrant visa your travel purpose must be temporary in nature.

The information in this website is designed to help you to understand the process and, if a visa interview is required, to come to the interview prepared. Simply click on one of the links on the left side of the page to begin.

A visa allows a foreign citizen to travel to the United States port-of-entry, and request permission from Department of Homeland Security to enter the United States. A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States.

Most Non-Immigrant Visa applicants must appear in person for an interview. Interviews are held on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Applicants should be prepared to wait up to three hours during peak visa processing times, particularly before school holidays and during the summer. Children applying for visas are required to be present at the interview.

Due to the high interest in travel to the United States, we encourage visa applicants to schedule their appointments at least one month in advance of travel plans. Current visa wait times are published online (see Visa Wait Time).

Types of Non Immigrant Visas:

Business & Tourism (B1/B2)

Domestic Employees (B1/B2)

Studying in the U.S. (F, M)

Exchange Visitors (J)

Petition Based Employment (H,L,O,P)

NAFTA Professionals (TN)

Investing in the US (E1, E2)

Media and Journalists (I)

Transit (C)

Crewmembers (D)

Religious Occupations (R)