How to Apply for a US Visa

In order to visit or enter the United States, a foreign citizen must first obtain a visa. This can either be a non-immigrant visa for temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. The type of visa you must have is defined by immigration law and relates to the purpose of your travel.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Valid passport from your country of citizenship
• Application form
• Proof employment
• Bank statements
• Application fees
• US consulate in your country

1. Get on the Internet and visit www.UnitedStatesVisas.gov. The website gives information on the current visa policy and procedures quickly and easily, based on your own situation and circumstance.There are many different types of visas, and this site can help you determine which kind you need and how to obtain it. If you do not have access to the Internet, contact your nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for more information.
2. Determine what kind of visa you are applying for. You may be entering as a student, a sponsor, a tourist, or on business.
3. Make an appointment to visit the U.S.Embassy or Consulate in your country. This can be done by telephone, mail, over the Internet, or in person, depending on circumstances in your country.
4. When making your appointment, ask about the fees and the form of payment. The fees must be paid before the appointment and depending on the country, the Consulate will let you know how to pay the fees in advance.
5. Get all your documentation together. These are:-your valid passport-your application form depending on what type of visa. These can be obtained from your consulate or on the internet at www.unitedstatesvisa.gov-Documents to support the application detailing employment, reason for travel and financial status and any additional documents depending on the type of visa requested.-proof of payment of fees.
6. Submit your application, passport, and supporting documents to the U.S.Embassy or Consulate. Note that the consular may request additional documentation to support your reason to visit the US.The process may take from 4 to 6 weeks depending on the Consulate.

Tips & Warnings

• Apply early for the visa since it takes time.
• Ensure that you have enough documentation to support your travel to the USA.
• Due to the high volume of visitors coming to the USA and not returning to their countries of origin, it is advisable to submit proof that you will be returning to your country. Examples of these are a letter of employment from your current employer or a land title or property title you own in your country.
• -Note that the visa fees are non-refundable and that by paying it does not guarantee that you will get a visa.
• -A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States.
• -Most Canadian citizens and many citizens from Visa Waiver Program countries can come to the U.S. without a visa if they meet certain requirements. Visit www.UnitedStatesvisa.gov to see if you qualify for a visa waiver.
• -Visa application procedures vary somewhat among Embassies and Consulates, depending on local needs.The processing time, for example, may be longer.