Non-Immigrant Visas
Understanding Non-Immigrant Visas
A non-immigrant visa is a type of visa granted to individuals who wish to enter a foreign country temporarily for a specific purpose. Unlike immigrant visas, which are for those seeking permanent residency, non-immigrant visas are issued for limited stays and are designed for people visiting for reasons such as tourism, business, education, temporary work, or medical treatment. The duration and terms of the stay are usually defined by the type of visa issued.
Some common types of non-immigrant visas include:
- Tourist Visas (e.g., B-2): For individuals visiting a country for leisure, vacation, or family visits.
- Business Visas (e.g., B-1): For those attending business meetings, conferences, or negotiating contracts.
- Student Visas (e.g., F-1, M-1): For international students pursuing academic or vocational studies.
- Work Visas (e.g., H-1B): Temporary work visas for skilled professionals sponsored by employers.
- Exchange Visitor Visas (e.g., J-1): For individuals participating in educational and cultural exchange programs.
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Non-Immigrant Visa Overview
F1/F2 Visa
F1 visa allows international students to study in the U.S., while the F2 visa is for their dependents.
B1/B2 Visa
B1 visa is for business travelers, while the B2 visa is for tourism, medical visits, or family visits.
H-1B Visa
(Specialty Occupations)
A non-immigrant visa for skilled professionals in specialized fields like IT, engineering, and finance.
H-2A Visa
(Agricultural Workers)
Issued to foreign agricultural workers for seasonal or temporary jobs in the U.S.
H-2B Visa
(Non-Agricultural Workers)
For temporary, seasonal non-agricultural jobs, such as hospitality, landscaping, and construction.
L-1 Visa
(Intra-Company Transfers)
Allows multinational companies to transfer employees to U.S. offices in managerial or specialized roles.
M-1 Visa
(Vocational Students)
For students enrolled in vocational or technical schools in the U.S.
J-1 Visa
(Exchange Visitors)
For students, researchers, and professionals participating in cultural and educational exchange programs.
K-1/3
(Spouse of a U.S. Citizen)
K1 visa allows a foreign fiancé(e) to enter the U.S. for marriage, while the K3 is for spouses of U.S. citizens.