In general, individuals from foreign countries intending to enter the United States must secure either a nonimmigrant visa for temporary stays or an immigrant visa for permanent residence.
Visitor visas fall under nonimmigrant visas and cater to those seeking temporary entry for business (visa category B-1), tourism (visa category B-2), or a combination of both (B-1/B-2).
Here are approved activities under a visitor visa:
- Business (B-1)
- Consulting with business associates
- Participating in scientific, educational, professional, or business events
- Resolving an estate
- Negotiating contracts
- Tourism (B-2)
- Holiday or vacation
- Visiting friends or relatives
- Seeking medical treatment
- Attending social events by fraternal or social organizations
- Participating in amateur events, not paid, in music, sports, or similar activities
- Enrolling in short recreational courses (non-degree-related) during vacation
- Travel Activities Not Permitted on Visitor Visas
- Certain activities not allowable under a visitor visa necessitate different visa categories:
- Study
- Employment
- Paid performances or professional work for a paying audience
- Entry as a crewmember of a ship or aircraft
- Working for foreign press or information media
- Seeking permanent residence in the United States
Visitor visas are not issued for birth tourism (traveling primarily to secure U.S. citizenship for a child born in the U.S.).
How to Apply
The visa application process involves various steps that may differ per U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Follow these steps as per instructions on their respective websites:
- Complete the Online Visa Application
- Fill out the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160. Ensure that you print the confirmation page for the interview.
- Photo Submission
- Upload your photo following the format described in the Photograph Requirements while completing Form DS-160.
- Schedule an Interview
Typically, visa applicants require an interview, though there are exceptions. Consular officers reserve the right to interview any visa applicant.
Based on your age, the necessity of an interview is as follows:
- 13 and younger: Generally not required
- 14-79: Required (exceptions for renewals may apply)
- 80 and older: Generally not required
To schedule your visa interview, arrange an appointment at your country’s U.S. Embassy or Consulate. While planning at another U.S. Embassy or Consulate is possible, securing a visa outside your residing country might be more challenging.
Appointment wait times vary based on location, season, and visa type. Hence, it’s advisable to apply for your visa well in advance.
Review the estimated wait time for a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at your selected U.S. Embassy or Consulate.