Visa Categories
- Non-Immigrant (Temporary): Includes B-1/B-2 (business/tourist), F-1/M-1 (students), H-1B (specialty workers).
- Immigrant (Permanent): Family-sponsored, employment-based, or Diversity Visa Lottery programs.
Immigration & visas · North America
General Immigration Guidelines for the U.S.
Visa Application
- Complete Form DS-160 (non-immigrant) or DS-260 (immigrant).
- Attend an interview with required documents, including a valid passport and financial proof.
Entry Process
- Undergo screening by Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
- Receive an I-94 record, indicating the authorized stay duration.
Maintaining Status
- Follow visa terms (e.g., tourists cannot work).
- Avoid overstaying or violating visa conditions.
Pathways to Citizenship
Green card holders can apply for citizenship via naturalization after meeting residency requirements.
Rights and Responsibilities
- Know your legal rights, including protection against unlawful searches.
- Notify USCIS of address changes within 10 days of moving.
Violations
Overstaying or illegal entry can lead to bans or deportation.
Special Programs
Programs like Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) assist eligible individuals facing hardship.
Helpful resources
Official government and agency websites.
- Apply for Visa
- USCIS
- Travel.state.gov
- CBP
- Student Visa
- Citizenship
- Tourist Visa
- H-1B Visa
- Employment-Based Visas
- Family-Based Immigration
- US Green Card
- Green Card Eligibility
- US Immigration Process
General guidance only. Rules change often, so confirm details on the official sites above before applying.
