The United States offers two main visa types: Non-Immigrant Visas for temporary stays and Immigrant Visas for permanent residence (Green Cards).

Non-Immigrant Visas

Purpose: Temporary travel for business, tourism, education, or specialized activities.

B Visitor Visas

• B-1 Visa: For business-related travel (e.g., meetings, conferences).
• B-2 Visa: For tourism, family visits, or medical treatment.
• Combined B-1/B-2 Visa: For travelers engaging in both business and leisure.

Who Needs a B Visitor Visa?

• Passport holders from countries not in the US Visa Waiver Program.
• Individuals intending to stay longer than 90 days or whose purpose exceeds the scope of the Visa Waiver Program.

Criteria:

• Proof of strong ties to your home country (e.g., job, residence).
• Temporary travel intentions (business or tourism).
• Evidence of sufficient funds and a clear travel purpose.

Interview Process:
Applicants must attend an interview at a US Embassy or Consulate, providing details about their travel plans and ties to their home country. Supporting documents may also be submitted.

Student Visas

• F-1 Visa: For academic studies at accredited institutions (e.g., universities, language programs).
• M-1 Visa: For vocational or non-academic training.
  Requirements:
• Acceptance into a US educational program.
• Proof of financial ability to cover tuition and living expenses.

E Visas (Investment & Trade)

• E-1 Treaty Trader Visa: For individuals or companies engaging in significant trade between their country and the US.
• E-2 Treaty Investor Visa: For investors developing or managing a US business.
• EB-5 Immigrant Visa: Permanent residency for individuals investing at least $500,000–$1,000,000 in a US business that creates jobs for at least 10 workers.

Immigrant Visas (Green Cards)

Purpose: Permanent residence in the US through family sponsorship, employment, or investment.

Family-Based Immigrant Visas

1. Immediate Relative Visa: Unlimited visas for:
   • Spouses of US citizens.
   • Unmarried children (under 21) of US citizens.
   • Parents of US citizens aged 21+.
2. Family Preference Visa: Limited visas for:
   • Adult children or siblings of US citizens.
   • Spouses and children of permanent residents.

Process:

• The US citizen or permanent resident must file a Petition for Alien Relative with the USCIS.
• Visas are issued based on priority dates and visa availability.

Employment-Based Visas

1. EB-1 Visa: For individuals with extraordinary abilities or multinational executives.
2. EB-2 Visa: For advanced degree holders or individuals with exceptional abilities.
3. EB-3 Visa: For skilled workers or professionals with a bachelor’s degree.