Canadian citizens may travel freely to the U.S. provided that their identification as a legal resident of Canada is officially established and the purpose of the visit will be as a private citizen and of temporary duration. In certain instances, the U.S. requires Canadian visitors to obtain a passport visa. A common example affects family members of U.S. citizens, such as spouses and children, who are themselves not citizens. A passport visa is required for such Canadian travelers.
Bermudian citizens are not required to obtain a non-immigrant visa when traveling to the United States for visits of 180 days or less except in special circumstances, such as those non-citizen family members (noted above under Canadian Citizens), foreign officials and international organization employees.
Permanent residents and citizens of Mexico must have either a non-immigrant visa or Border Crossing Card to legally enter the U.S. Applications may be obtained at the U.S. embassy in Mexico.
Visitors wishing to enter the United States on student visas must obtain a valid passport and non-immigrant visa in their native country prior to traveling. The State Department requires additional qualifications for student visas based on country of origin, type of study intended and duration of the stay. A prospective traveling student may check with the U.S. embassy or consulate in his native country for more details on which regulations apply to his specific situation.
Visitors to the United States that are required to obtain a passport visa must furnish basic personal information during the application process. For example, passport number, city, state, and country of issuance, all names used (past and present), place of birth and nationality are among the identifying data required. In addition, the applicant must provide details as to the nature of her intended visit, such as the location of her visit, whom she will be staying with or visiting, how long she will stay, the purpose of the trip and who will pay for her travel. The application also requires the prospective visitor to answer, under penalties of law, questions concerning any previous illegal activities. The application reemphasizes the standard policy that obtaining a visa does not mean that the applicant can be assured of crossing the border or clearing customs at an entry port.
