Visas
- Translation:
- فارسی
The United States welcomes visitors to its shores from around the world, with secure borders and open doors. International visitors and our lawful immigrants add greatly to our nation's cultural, education and economic life.
General Visa Information
Before traveling to the United States, a citizen of a foreign country must obtain a nonimmigrant visa for temporary stay or an immigrant visa for permanent residence to live in the United States. The type of visa you will need is based on the purpose of your travel. As part of the visa application process, applicants are required to demonstrate that they are qualified and eligible to receive the visa for which they are applying.
To learn more review:
• What is a Visa?
• U.S. Visa Policy
Important Announcements for 2013
- New Appointment System for Non-Immigrant Visas
As of January 6, 2013, the U.S. Consular Sections in the UAE, Ankara, and Yerevan have a new appointment service for applicants applying for a non-immigrant visa to come to the United States. If you would like information on this new service or on how to schedule an appointment, please visit http://usvisa-info.com/en-IR/selfservice/ss_country_welcome.
- Legal Permanent Residents Who Remain Outside of the United States More Than One Year Must Obtain a Returning Resident Visa
As a reminder, if you are a legal permanent resident (LPR) of United States who has been outside of the country for longer than one year, you will need to obtain a returning resident visa (an SB-1 immigrant visa) to re-enter the United States. You may apply for an SB-1 visa at any U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you do not obtain an SB-1 visa, you risk being refused entry into the United States. For more information on how to apply and qualify for an SB-1 visa, please visit here.
If you are an LPR and know prior to leaving the United States you will be outside of the country for more than one year, you may apply for a re-rentry permit before you leave the United States. For more information please visit Department of Homeland Security.
- What to Expect When Visiting the United States
For information on what to expect when arriving and departing the United States, please visit the Department of Homeland Security’s website at http://www.dhs.gov/us-visit-what-expect.
