Non-immigrant visas are for international travelers, (citizens of other countries), coming to the U.S. temporarily. This visa allows you to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (airport, for example) and request permission of the Department of Homeland Security immigration inspector to enter the U.S. A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States.

International travelers come to the U.S. for a wide variety of reasons, including tourism, business, medical treatment and certain types of temporary work. The type of visa needed is defined by immigration law, and relates to the purpose of your travel. For an overview of the types of non-immigrant visas available under immigration law, please visit the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs webpage “Types of Visas for Temporary Visitors.” The Consular Officer at the consulate will decide what kind of visa you need, when you apply.

Advance planning can smooth the visa application process for you.

Apply for your Visa well in advance of your travel! See our webpage “How to Apply.”

See the links on the left for more information about visas required for temporary visitors to the U.S.

Non-Immigrant Visa Types

• Diplomats and Foreign Government Officials (A visas)
• Employees of International Organizations (G and NATO visas)
• Business, Tourist, Visitors and Medical (B1/B2 visas)
• Student Visas (F and M visas)
• Exchange Visitors (J visas)
• Temporary Workers (H, L, O, P, Q visas)
• Temporary Religious Workers (R visas)
• Treaty Investors (E2 visas)
• Foreign Media (I visas)