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Call Us Today

630-392-8101 | 630-392-8101
info@kasturilaw.com

A non-immigrant visa allows foreign nationals to enter the U.S. temporarily for a specific reason, such as business, pleasure, or education. Unlike immigrant visas, which are issued to individuals intending to live permanently in the U.S., non-immigrant visas are strictly for short-term visits, and each visa type has its own set of eligibility requirements and duration of stay.

Here, we provide an overview of the most common types of non-immigrant visas.

Non-Immigrant Visa Overview

Common Types of Non-Immigrant Visas

Here is a guide to the most common types of non-immigrant visas, including their purpose, eligibility, and typical duration:

The B-1 visa is designed for individuals who wish to visit the U.S. temporarily for business purposes, such as attending conferences, meetings, or negotiating contracts. It does not permit employment in the U.S. The B-2 visa is for individuals visiting the U.S. for tourism, vacations, or visiting friends and family. It also covers those traveling for medical treatment.

The F-1 visa is the most common visa for international students seeking to study in the U.S. It allows individuals to enroll in full-time academic programs at U.S. institutions, such as universities, high schools, or language schools. To qualify for an F-1 visa, you must first be accepted by a U.S. school approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). You’ll also need to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover tuition and living expenses and show ties to your home country, indicating your intent to return after completing your studies.

The J-1 visa is designed for individuals participating in exchange programs that promote cultural exchange and learning. It is commonly used for internships, teaching, research, and au pair programs. J-1 applicants must be accepted into a U.S. Department of State-designated exchange program. The program sponsor is responsible for issuing the necessary documentation to apply for the visa.

The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant work visa that allows U.S. employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations requiring specialized knowledge, such as engineering, IT, or healthcare. Applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a related field and a job offer from a U.S. employer willing to sponsor them. The position must require a degree or equivalent expertise in a specific field.

The O-1 visa is designed for individuals with extraordinary abilities in fields such as science, education, business, athletics, or the arts. High-level professionals, researchers, artists, and entertainers often use it. To qualify, applicants must provide substantial evidence of their extraordinary ability and achievements, such as awards, published work, or recognition by peers in their field. A U.S. employer or agent must sponsor the visa.

The L-1 visa allows international companies to transfer employees from a foreign office to a U.S. office. Multinational companies often use it to bring executives, managers, or employees with specialized knowledge to their U.S. operations. To qualify, the employee must have worked for the company abroad for at least one year within the last three years and be transferred to a related U.S. company in an executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge capacity.

If you’re unsure which visa to apply for or need assistance with the application process, contact our immigration law firm today to schedule a consultation. With over 27 years of legal experience and a decade of experience representing individuals and families throughout Illinois. Shobhana Kasturi can provide personalized advice and help you navigate the complexities of the U.S. visa system.

Whether you prefer an in-person meeting, a phone call, or a Zoom session, we are here to accommodate you. You can even schedule a consultation directly using our online calendar, choosing between 30-minute or 60-minute timeframes. We value your time and want to ensure that your immigration questions receive the attention they deserve, helping you move forward confidently.

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