There are two main types of U.S. visas: immigrant and non-immigrant. Non-immigrant visas are necessary for those wishing to temporarily travel to the U.S. for things such as business, sporting competitions, or study. An immigrant visa is needed for those who wish to eventually live permanently in the U.S. It is important to note that anyone who wants to apply for a U.S. visa will first need a valid passport issued from their country of origin, and that the issuance of a U.S. visa does not guarantee access into the country.
Prospective students wishing to study in the U.S. will need to file for one of the four student and exchange visas. All students and exchange visitors will need to be accepted to their programs before they can apply for a student/exchange visa. The F and M visas are for students wishing to attend a university or vocational school in America while the F1 visa is for public high school students. Exchange students wishing to visit the United States must apply for the J visa.
All non-citizens of the U.S. wishing to work in the country must apply for a temporary worker visa. The temporary worker visa is a non-immigrant visa that lets workers live and work in the U.S. The visa must be filed in conjunction with a petition from your prospective employer on your behalf. Their are 21 different temporary workers visas to apply for, each one requiring a different occupation, skill set, or qualification.
The temporary visitor visa is a non-immigrant visa required for travel to the United States. Most Canadian citizens and citizens of nations listed on the Visa Waiver Program do not need to apply for a temporary visitors visa. For those who do need a temporary visitor visa, there are many to choose from. Prospective travelers should apply for the visa that most closely fits their reasons for visiting the U.S.
