Kinds of US visas
The United States offers a variety of visas to individuals seeking entry into the country for different purposes. Here are some of the commonly known visa categories:
B-1/B-2 Visitor Visa: The B-1 visa is for temporary business visitors, allowing individuals to engage in business-related activities such as attending conferences or meetings. The B-2 visa is for tourism, pleasure, or visiting family and friends in the United States.
F-1 Student Visa: The F-1 visa is for international students pursuing academic programs at U.S. universities, colleges, or other educational institutions. It allows students to study full-time in the United States.
H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa: The H-1B visa is designed for individuals in specialty occupations that require specialized knowledge, such as professionals in fields like science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Employers sponsor H-1B visa holders.
J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa: The J-1 visa is for individuals participating in approved exchange programs, including research scholars, professors, students, and cultural exchange participants.
L-1 Intracompany Transfer Visa: The L-1 visa is for employees of multinational companies transferring from a foreign branch to a U.S. branch of the same company. It allows for temporary work in the United States.
O-1 Extraordinary Ability Visa: The O-1 visa is for individuals with extraordinary ability in fields such as science, arts, business, education, or athletics. It requires demonstrating outstanding achievements in the respective field.
E-1/E-2 Treaty Trader and Investor Visas: The E-1 visa is for individuals engaged in substantial international trade between the United States and their home country. The E-2 visa is for foreign investors who have made a significant investment in a U.S. business.
K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa: The K-1 visa is for individuals engaged to U.S. citizens who intend to marry and reside in the United States.
Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery Program: The Diversity Visa Lottery Program, also known as the Green Card Lottery, offers a limited number of visas to individuals from countries with low rates of immigration to the United States.
It’s important to note that each visa category has specific requirements, limitations, and application processes. Visa applicants should consult the U.S. Department of State’s official website or seek professional guidance to understand the specific details and procedures for each visa type.