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UnitedStatesVisas.gov What is a Visa? Nonimmigrant Visas | Immigrant Visas | Visa Classifications and Categories | Visa Application Forms | Frequently Asked Questions If you’re a citizen of a foreign country, in most cases you’ll need a visa to enter the United States. A visa doesn’t permit entry to the U.S., however. A visa simply indicates that your application has been reviewed by a U.S. consular officer at an American embassy or consulate, and that the officer has determined you’re eligible to enter the country for a specific purpose. Consular affairs are the responsibility of the U.S. Department of State. A visa allows you to travel to the United States as far as the port of entry (airport or land border crossing) and ask the immigration officer to allow you to enter the country. Only the immigration officer has the authority to permit you to enter the United States. He or she decides how long you can stay for any particular visit. Immigration matters are the responsibility of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. There are two categories of U.S. visas: immigrant and nonimmigrant. Immigrant visas are for people who intend to live permanently in the U.S. Nonimmigrant visas are for people with permanent residence outside the U.S. but who wish to be in the U.S. on a temporary basis – for tourism, medical treatment, business, temporary work or study. ______________________Apply Early Recent changes in U.S. visa laws and regulations have increased the amount of time it can take to get a visa. Stricter security measures require more thorough checks and lengthen the visa application process but ensure the safety of visitors and U.S. citizens alike. Even with significant improvements being made in speeding up visa processing, it is inevitable that delays will sometimes occur. Processing times will vary. Please contact your nearest embassy or consulate for a current time estimate and planning recommendations. Doing Business and Working in the U.S. Visiting the U.S. Coming Permanently to the U.S. What is a Visa? U.S. Visa Policy Home | Full Graphic Version | Contact Us | Languages | Privacy Policy |