Many people from different countries find that the United States is an interesting country to come. Foreign nationals are coming to the US for various reasons. Many are visiting the county for business reasons or for vacations. Many others are coming to the country with their own version of American dreams whether it is to study, to work, or even looking to relocate and live there. No matter what the reason is, any foreign nationals would require a US Visa prior to come to the country. Understanding US Visa Requirements is crucial for a successful visa application.
US Visa Application
US Visa is an immigration document that granting access to foreign citizens to enter and stay within US territory for certain time. Visa is placed in the passport of the individual granted the entry permit. US immigration law requires that foreign nationals must obtain US Visa prior entering US territory. It requires certain application process, usually through US embassy or consulate in the country where the applicant live.
Before anyone want to start the application process, it is highly advised to learn that there are different types of US Visa depending on the purpose entering US territory. Those types of visa can be divided into two main categories. The first one is nonimmigrant visa designed for temporary visits such as vacation, business trips, or studying. The last one is immigrant visa, for people wishing to immigrate and live
permanently in the U.S.
Standard Requirements
USVisa Requirements for nonimmigrant or immigrant visa have slight different variations. However, there are standard requirements for all types of US Visa. Those requirements are including these documents:
- US Visa application form ( DS 160 form for nonimmigrant and DS 260 for immigrant). The form can be obtained from US embassies or consulates or can be downloaded online.
- Valid passport with minimum 6 months before expiration date.
- Two photographs compliant with US Visa photo requirements.
- Payment of US Visa fee to get interview scheduled.
Supporting Requirements
Besides standard documents, there are other supporting documents required for USVisa application. Supporting documents are varied depending on the types of Visa to obtain. Those supporting documents are including:
- Previous US Visa
Foreign nationals who have visited US before are advised to bring the previous US Visa during the interview at the US embassy or consulate. This document would help easier visa application process.
- Travel itinerary
It is list of travel plan during your stay in the US. It is including all flight reservations (international and US domestics) as well as proof of accommodation.
- Sponsorship documents
These documents are required when you are coming to the US sponsored by a US resident.
- Family documents
These including birth certificate, marriage certificate, and related documents.
- Medical examination report
All applications must undergo medical examination by US embassy approved physicians.
All required documents written in non English language must be properly translated by certified or competent translators. Making sure that all required documents are provided and compliant with the required US Visa Requirements will save a lot of hassles during the application process.
