How to Obtain an American Visa

You can visit the United States as a non-immigrant for vacation, work or study, or come as an immigrant to live permanently. Because of the high number of aliens working illegally in the country, United States Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires extensive proof that non-immigrants have strong enough ties to their home country that they would not stay to work illegally. Other programs allow family members of citizens and permanent residents and certain skilled workers to immigrate permanently. Some programs allow refugee immigration or political asylum. Follow the steps closely to improve your chances of obtaining an American visa.

• 1

  Determine which type of visa you will need: a non-immigrant or immigrant visa. Non-immigrants apply for business or pleasure visas. The B-1 visa allows you to attend conferences or seek medical treatment. The B-2 visa allows you to enter temporarily for vacation or to visit family or friends. All visitors must show that they have funds to support themselves for the trip, as well as a permanent residence that they have no intention of abandoning. Students, workers and immigrants must prove that they qualify for their specific programs. See the References Section for more detailed visitor, student and permanent resident information.

• 2

  Visit uscis.gov and go to "Log in to E-Filing" to set up a user account. Create a user name and password. Enter the type of visa for which you want to apply. The site will route you to the necessary forms. Have your passport handy to enter the number.

• 3

  Fill in the forms as prompted. Depending on the type of visa, enter personal data, financial data, work experience, family ties or any other required information. Save the file and return to it later to any enter data you don't immediately have on hand.

• 4

  Submit the form when prompted. All visa application forms require fees. Pay by credit card or direct transfer from your bank account. USCIS will immediately send you a payment receipt.

• 5

  Follow all USCIS instructions you receive while checking your application status online. Instructions may also come via regular mail. If a medical examination or fingerprinting is required, your instructions will include the addresses of where you will need to go.

• 6

  Report to the United States Embassy for your interview at the time and date instructed. All visa applicants must appear for a personal interview. Bring your passport and any other documentation requested for your particular visa application.