Editing USA Travel Visa Requirements for Foreigners (section)

==== '''Types of U.S. Visas''' ====

# '''Tourist Visa (B-2 Visa)''' The '''B-2 Visa''' is for tourists visiting the U.S. for leisure, medical treatment, or social activities. It’s the most common type of visa for those traveling for vacation or to visit family and friends.
#* '''Eligibility''': Available to individuals from countries not part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
#* '''Duration''': Typically issued for 6 months, but you can request an extension.
#* '''Application Process''':
#*# Complete the DS-160 form online.
#*# Pay the visa application fee.
#*# Schedule and attend an interview at your nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
#*# Provide required documents (passport, photo, proof of financial support, travel itinerary).
#* '''Important Tip''': Demonstrating strong ties to your home country (job, family, property) helps increase your chances of approval.
# '''Business Visa (B-1 Visa)''' The '''B-1 Visa''' is for travelers coming to the U.S. for business purposes, such as attending meetings, conferences, or negotiating contracts.
#* '''Eligibility''': Available for individuals engaging in business activities that do not involve gainful employment in the U.S.
#* '''Duration''': Usually valid for up to 6 months.
#* '''Application Process''': The process is similar to the B-2 tourist visa, requiring completion of the DS-160 form and an interview.
#* '''Required Documents''': In addition to standard documents, include a letter of invitation from the U.S. business partner and evidence of the business purpose of your visit.
# '''Visa Waiver Program (VWP)''' Citizens of 40 countries, including most European nations, Australia, Japan, and South Korea, can travel to the U.S. without a visa under the '''Visa Waiver Program''' (VWP). Travelers must obtain an '''ESTA''' (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) approval before their trip.
#* '''Eligibility''': For tourism, business, or transit purposes for up to 90 days.
#* '''Application Process''':
#*# Complete the ESTA application online.
#*# Pay the $21 ESTA fee.
#*# Receive approval, usually within minutes (valid for 2 years or until your passport expires).
#* '''Important Tip''': You cannot extend your stay beyond 90 days or change your status while in the U.S. under the VWP.
# '''Student Visa (F-1 Visa)''' The '''F-1 Visa''' is for individuals who wish to pursue academic studies or language training programs in the U.S. It is required for full-time study at U.S. universities, colleges, high schools, and other academic institutions.
#* '''Eligibility''': You must be accepted by a U.S. institution and receive an I-20 form.
#* '''Duration''': Valid for the length of the academic program, plus an additional 60-day grace period.
#* '''Application Process''':
#*# Obtain your I-20 form from the educational institution.
#*# Complete the DS-160 form.
#*# Pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee.
#*# Attend the visa interview with proof of acceptance, financial support, and educational background.
#* '''Important Tip''': You may be allowed to work on-campus during your studies and apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) post-graduation.
# '''Exchange Visitor Visa (J-1 Visa)''' The '''J-1 Visa''' is for individuals participating in exchange programs, including internships, research programs, and teaching assignments in the U.S.
#* '''Eligibility''': You must be sponsored by a U.S. government-approved organization and obtain a DS-2019 form.
#* '''Duration''': Varies depending on the exchange program, typically ranging from a few months to a few years.
#* '''Application Process''': The process is similar to the F-1 student visa, with the addition of the DS-2019 form from the sponsoring organization.
#* '''Important Tip''': Some J-1 visa holders may be subject to the two-year home-country residency requirement, meaning they must return to their home country for two years before applying for certain U.S. visas.
# '''Work Visa (H-1B Visa)''' The '''H-1B Visa''' is for individuals who are employed in specialty occupations in the U.S. It is one of the most common work visas for foreign professionals.
#* '''Eligibility''': You must have a job offer from a U.S. employer who will sponsor your visa. The job must require specialized knowledge, and you must hold at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in the field.
#* '''Duration''': Typically issued for 3 years, with the possibility of extension up to 6 years.
#* '''Application Process''':
#*# The employer files a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
#*# Once approved, you can apply for the H-1B visa through the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
#* '''Important Tip''': H-1B visas are subject to annual caps, and the demand often exceeds the supply, so early application is crucial.
# '''Transit Visa (C-1 Visa)''' The '''C-1 Visa''' is for travelers passing through the U.S. on their way to another destination. If you have a layover in the U.S. but do not plan to stay, this visa allows you to transit through the country.
#* '''Eligibility''': Required for travelers from countries not part of the VWP, and the stay in the U.S. must be for transit only.
#* '''Duration''': Valid for the duration of your transit.
#* '''Application Process''': Follow the same steps as for the B-2 visa, with the addition of proof of onward travel.