Visiting Visa
Discover the different visa options for short-term visits, whether for business, tourism, or personal reasons, and get help with the application process
The United States offers various visiting visas for individuals seeking to visit the U.S. for different purposes. Each visa category has its requirements and conditions. Explore the different types below to find the one that best suits your visit needs.
Types of Visiting Visas
K-1 Visa
For fiancés of U.S. citizens
K-3 Visa
For spouses of U.S. citizens awaiting the availability of an immigrant visa
C Visa
For individuals in transit through the United States
D Visa
For crew members of ships or aircraft traveling to the United States.
B-1 Visa
For individuals visiting the U.S. for business purposes
B-2 Visa
For individuals visiting the U.S. for tourism, pleasure, or medical treatment
Application Process
Determine Eligibility
Gather Documentation
Submit Your Application
Attend Interviews (If Required)
Receive Decision
Follow Next Steps
Required Documents
- Form I-129F:
Petition for Alien Fiancé(e). - Proof of Relationship:
Evidence of a bona fide relationship, such as photographs, correspondence, and affidavits. - Proof of Meeting:
Evidence that you and your fiancé(e) have met in person within the last two years.
- Form I-130:
Petition for Alien Relative. - Proof of Marriage:
Marriage certificate and proof of the relationship. - Proof of Citizenship:
Evidence of the U.S. citizen’s status.
- Form DS-160:
Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application. - Travel Itinerary:
Details of the transit route and destination. - Proof of Transit Purpose:
Evidence that the purpose of the transit is legitimate and temporary.
- Form DS-160:
Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application. - Employment Letter:
Letter from the employer confirming employment as a crew member. - Travel Itinerary:
Details of the travel route and schedule.
- Form DS-160:
Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application. - Purpose of Visit:
Letter outlining the purpose of your business visit. - Financial Evidence:
Proof of funds to cover the expenses during the stay. - Ties to Home Country:
Evidence of strong ties to your home country, such as a job, property
Processing Times
- Processing times for visiting visas can vary depending on the type of visa and the applicant’s circumstances. Typically, it can take several weeks to several months. Check the current processing times on the U.S. Department of State website for the most up-to-date information.
Fees
The fees for visiting visas vary by visa type and may include:
- Form I-129F Fee
$535 (K-1 Visa) - Form I-130 Fee
$535 (K-3 Visa) - Form DS-160 Fee
$160 - Visa Issuance Fee
Varies by country
For full details and any updates on fees, visit the U.S. Department of State Visa Fees Page.
Frequently Asked Questions
- The K-1 visa is for fiancés of U.S. citizens who intend to marry within 90 days of entering the U.S. The K-3 visa is for spouses of U.S. citizens awaiting the availability of an immigrant visa.
- It may be possible to extend your stay on a visiting visa under certain circumstances. You must file a request with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before your current visa expires.
- No, visiting visas do not permit employment in the United States. You would need to apply for a work visa if you intend to work.
Success Stories
John M.
John had been running a successful business in South Africa and saw a potential partnership with a U.S. company. He applied for a B-1 Business Visa to attend a series of meetings in New York. Within a month, his visa was approved, allowing him to negotiate contracts and form valuable business relationships in the U.S. John’s company has since expanded into the U.S. market, helping him grow his global footprint.
Chinelo A
Chinelo had not seen her son, who moved to the U.S. for college, in over three years. Determined to reunite with him, she applied for a B-2 Tourist Visa to visit him in Texas. With all the necessary documents in place, her visa was approved. Chinelo was overjoyed to spend quality time with her son, exploring local landmarks and creating cherished memories. Her visit strengthened their bond, and she plans to return for his graduation next year.
Sara R.
Sara met her fiancé while he was traveling in the Philippines. After deciding to marry, they applied for a K-1 Fiancé Visa, allowing Sara to join her fiancé in the U.S. and plan their wedding. The application process went smoothly, and within a few months, she was able to enter the U.S. on her K-1 visa. Sara and her fiancé were married shortly after her arrival and are now happily building their life together in California.
Yusef A.
Yusef needed to attend a critical business conference in the U.S. to network and pitch his start-up idea to potential investors. With clear documentation and purpose, his B-1 visa was approved within weeks. The conference was a success, and he secured funding to expand his operations globally. The experience proved to be a turning point for his start-up.
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