Getting a US Immigration Visa

2008-04-17 15:01:53

( Technology )



What is a Visa?

Non-citizens need to secure a visa before being allowed to travel to the United States. The procedures you need for securing a US immigration visa generally depends on the type of visa you are applying for.

Before you leave the country, you will need to get a visa from your local US consulate or embassy. This visa is proof that you have undergone screening and interviews with a US consul, and that he or she thinks you are eligible to travel to the US.

However, this is not a guarantee that you will be allowed to enter the US. Once you reach a US port of entry, you will still need to be examined by a US immigration officer, who will decide whether to grant you entry as well as the length of time you can stay. The officer stamps the expiry date of your stay on your passport.

Two Types of Visas

There are two types of visas - immigrant and non-immigrant. You need specific qualifications to get the first type, usually given if you are a spouse or dependent child of a US citizen. This visa type takes time, and the US Immigration and Naturalization Service has very stringent rules about granting such visas.

The second type is the non-immigrant visa, given to people who only wish to enter and stay in the USA for a brief period. Under this category are several types based on purpose - student, tourist or temporary worker. This visa is not permanent, so you will need to leave on or before the expiry date you are given by the immigration officer, as stamped on your passport.

Tips in Securing a US Immigration Visa

While the US welcomes visitors and immigrants, recent trends in terrorism such as the 9/11 incident has compelled the US government to implement tighter security measures on the entry of people from other countries.

In securing a US immigration visa, you need to follow all the rules and policies regarding eligibilities and documentary requirements. However, you must realize that nothing is certain about whether you will be granted the US immigration visa or not. Even though your documents may be complete and you may be eligible, the officer who interviews you may find something in your records that could be a point against approving your visa.

Another reality is the length of time it may take for your visa to be approved. Tourist visas may take as short as a few hours, but immigrant visas may take a few months or even years.

The US Immigration and Naturalization has a website which gives information and explanations about visa applications. You can also consult an immigration lawyer to get more tips and advice about your own case.


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