USA Non-immigrant Visas

USA non-immigrant visas allow foreign nationals to stay for a period of time and sometimes work in the United States; they are broken down into separate categories, each denoted by a letter and sometimes followed by a number. Some of the most common types of USA non-immigrant visas are as follows:

  • A: Career Diplomats
  • B: Temporary Visitors for Business and Pleasure
  • C: Aliens in Transit
  • D: Crewmembers
  • E: Treaty Traders and Investors
  • F: Students
  • G: International Organization Representatives
  • H: Temporary Workers
  • I: Foreign Media Representatives
  • J: Exchange Visitors
  • M: Students in Non-Academic Institutions
  • N: Parents and Children of Special Immigrants
  • O: Aliens with Extraordinary Abilities
  • P: Entertainers
  • Q: Cultural Exchange Program Participants
  • R: Religious Workers
  • TN: NAFTA Professionals

Remember that nationals of certain countries are exempt from the visa requirement in some instances, so be sure to check out the Visa Waiver Program to determine whether you qualify.

While tourist visas are generally straightforward to obtain, other types of non-immigrant visas, particularly those that permit employment or education, may be more complicated. Accordingly, you might consider consulting with an immigration lawyer if you think your case may be of the more complex variety or if you simply want expert advice regarding the process. With each visa, there is an application

Most visas are granted to tourist and business visitors (B-1/B-2); tourist visas are for those visiting the country for pleasure, while business visas are for those conducting or participating in commercial transactions in the United States but not employment (although in the case of a B-2 visa, its holder may continue to work for a foreign company located in the United States). These visas are valid for one year and are renewable in six-month segments.

Another popular category is the F-1 visa granted to students who will study at an established school, language school, university, college, seminary, or conservatory; those who hold this visa are generally allowed to work while in the country. For students in non-academic institutions, an M visa is required, and the student’s ability to work while in the country is limited.

For more complete information on temporary, non-immigrant visas, be sure to check out the U.S. Department of State website.