Common types of US visas
| Purpose | Length of stay | Application | Key requirements | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B1/B2 Visa | Tourism, visits, and business travel. | Up to 6 months. | Complete the online DS-160 application. | 1) Evidence that your stay in the United States will be temporary. |
| F-1 Visa | Study in an academic or language-training program at a qualifying US college or university. | Until graduation or your last day as a student, plus a 60 day grace period. | Obtain an I-20 from your school, and complete the online DS-160 application. | 1) Enrollment in an SEVP-approved school. 2) In an academic or language-training program (vocational programs do not qualify). |
| H-1B Visa | Employment in a specialty occupation. | Duration of employment relationship. | Your employer handles the application process. | 1) Position in a specialty occupation. 2) Position related to your field of study. 3) Pay at or above the actual or prevailing wage. 4) Valid employment relationship. 5) Available at time of petition. |
| H-4 Visa | Family members of an H-1B worker. | Duration of the H-1B visa used as the basis for the H-4 visa. | Complete the online DS-160 application once the H-1B holder has received their I-797 notice of approval. | 1) Spouse or child of an H-1, H-2, or H-3 visa holder. |
| J-1 Visa | Participation in an exchange visitor program. | Dependent on program. Ranges from 4 months to 7 years, plus a 30 day grace period. | Complete the DS-2019 form provided to you by your program’s sponsor. | Varies by program. |
| K-1 Visa | Fiancee of a US citizen traveling to the US to marry that citizen. | 90 days, during which marriage must occur. | US citizen completes the I-129F petition, then fiancee completes the DS-160 application. | 1) US citizen petitioner. 2) Marrying within 90 days of fiancee’s entrance. 3) Free to marry. 4) Has met fiancee in person at least once in the 2 years before application (with certain exceptions.) |
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