A U.S. Visa is a stamp on the passports of foreign citizens who are eligible to enter the United States. US Visas are divided into two main categories. The 2 main types of U.S. Visas are immigrant and nonimmigrant visas. A U.S. immigrant visa is given to foreign citizens who are eligible for permanent residence (green card) status in the US. A U.S. nonimmigrant visa is given to foreign citizens who are staying temporarily in the US for purposes of tourism, business, employment, or education.
Immigrant U.S. Visa types are divided into Immediate and Family-based Immigration Visas and Employment-based Immigration Visas. Immediate and Family-based Immigration Visas shorten the separation of eligible spouses, children, fiancé(e)s, parents, and siblings from U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Employment-based Immigration Visas are given to persons with exceptional abilities, skilled workers, special immigrants, and foreign investors who are employed permanently in the US. Nonimmigrant US Visa types are classified into Student Visas, Visitor Visas, Exchange Visitor Visas, Diplomatic and Official Visas, and Temporary Work Visas. Nonimmigrant U.S. Visa holders have to return to their home countries upon expiration of their nonimmigrant status.
What are the Immigrant Visas?
An immigrant visa is a stamp on the passport of foreign citizens that indicates their eligibility to enter the United States as permanent residents. An immigrant visa allows the holder to work, live, and travel anywhere in the United States indefinitely. Most U.S. immigrant visas are obtained through sponsorship from family or employers.
Immediate Relative and Family Preference immigrant visas are granted to foreign citizens who have close familial relationships with U.S. citizens and/or permanent residents which include IR1, CR1, K-3, K-4, IR2, CR2, F2A, and F2B Visas. Employment-based immigrant visas are granted to foreign citizens who are employed permanently in the U.S. and include EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, EB-4, and EB-5 visa categories. Other immigrant US visas are the diversity immigrant visa and returning resident visa. We will further discuss each of these immigrant visa types in the next section.
1. IR-1 and CR-1 Visas
The IR-1 (Immediate Relative) and CR-1 (Conditional Resident) Visas are marriage-based green cards that allow the foreign spouses of U.S. citizens to become permanent residents of the US. The IR1 Visa is given to foreign spouses who are married to a US citizen for more than 2 years. The IR-1 Visa is valid for 10 years before a renewal is required to maintain U.S. permanent residence. The CR1 Visa is given to foreign spouses who have been married to a U.S. citizen for less than 2 years. The CR-2 Visa is valid for an initial 2-year period which can be renewed to a 10-year green card. The IR1 and CR1 Visas permit foreign spouses to work, live, and study anywhere in the US with their American spouses.
The foreign spouse must be legally married to a U.S. citizen who is at least 18 years old. Evidence of legal marriage such as marriage certificate, marriage photos, and flight itineraries must be provided during the CR1 or IR1 Visa application. The US citizen sponsoring the IR-1 Visa or CR-1 Visa must be living in the United States or plan to return to the U.S. with their foreign spouse. These are the main costs for a CR-1 or Ir-1 Visa.
- Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative: $535
- DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application: $325
- Biometrics fee: $85
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) fee: $220
- Costs for a medical exam, documentation, and travel expenses vary
2. IR-2 and CR-2 Visas
The IR-2 Visa is an immigrant visa for the unmarried child under 21 of an IR-1 Visa holder. The CR-2 Visa is an immigrant visa for the unmarried child under 21 of a CR-1 Visa holder. The immigrant child can study and work without an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) as a permanent resident.
The IR2 and CR2 Visas are petitioned by the US citizen parent. The US citizen must have legal custody of the child for a minimum of 2 years. The minor applicant must have lived with the sponsoring US citizen for 2 years before the visa application. Documents such as birth certificates are needed to prove the parent/child relationship for the CR-2 and IR-2 Visas. Here are the costs of filing an IR-2 Visa or CR-2 Visa.
- Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative: $535
- DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application: $325
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) fee: $220
- Costs for a medical exam, documentation, and travel expenses vary
3. K-1 and K-2 Visas
The K-1 Visa is a dual intent visa for foreign fiancé(e)s of U.S. citizens. Dual intent means that a nonimmigrant visa holder can apply for permanent residence legally in the United States. The K-2 Visa is a nonimmigrant visa granted to unmarried children under 21 of K-1 Visa holders. The K1 Visa allows foreign fiancé(e)s to enter the US to marry American citizens within 90 days of their arrival.
The US citizen sponsors both K-1 and K-2 Visas. The foreign fiancé(e) and the U.S. must have met at least once in person within 2 years before the visa application. Documents such as photographs, flight itineraries, and hotel reservations are required to prove the legitimacy of the engagement. These are the costs for filing a K-1 Visa or K-2 Visa.
- Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e): $535
- Embassy fee: $265
- Biometrics fee: $85
- Costs for a medical exam, documentation, and travel expenses vary
4. K-3 and K-4 Visas
The K-3 Visa is a dual intent visa that allows for permanent residence for the foreign spouse of a US citizen. The K-4 Visa is granted to unmarried children under 21 of K3 Visa holders to become permanent residents in the US. The K-3 and K4 Visas shorten the physical separation between the foreign spouse and the US citizens and applicable dependent children. K4 and K-3 Visa holders are allowed to stay in the US while awaiting the approval of their green cards. K-3 Visa and K-4 Visa holders are only eligible to work in the U.S. with an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
The US citizen files the petition for the K3 and K4 Visas. Birth certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce or death certificates are needed when applying for the K-3 Visa or K-4 Visa. The following are the costs of K3 and K4 Visa applications.
- Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative: $535
- DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application: $325
- Biometrics fee: $85
- Costs for a medical exam, documentation, and travel expenses vary
5. IR-3, IH-3, IR-4, IH-4 Visas
The IR-3, IH-3, IR-4, and IH-4 Visas are intercountry adoption immigrant visas for children adopted by U.S. citizens.
The IR-3 Visa is issued to children adopted by US citizens from Hague Convention countries and non-Hague Convention countries. The Hague Convention established the global standards for intercountry adoptions. Hague Convention countries include the Netherlands, Colombia, Israel, Thailand, and South Africa. Application procedures are different when adopting from a Hague Convention Country and a non-Hague Convention Country. The IR3 Visa is granted when at least one of the adoptive parents personally saw and observed the foreign child prior to or during the adoption process overseas. Another option for IR-3 Visa approval is to obtain a final adoption certificate recognized both by the child’s home country and the US.
The IH-3 Visa is issued to children with full and final adoptions from a Hague Convention country. The U.S. citizen should have completed the final adoption that is recognized both by the child’s country of origin and the United States for approval of an IH-3 Visa. The child with an IR3 or IH3 Visa automatically becomes a US citizen upon entry into the US.
The IR-4 Visa allows U.S. citizens to obtain guardianship of a foreign child in their country of origin and travel with them to the US to complete the adoption. The foreign child can be from a Hague Convention country or a non-Hague Convention country. The foreign child can legally study and work without an EAD with an IR-4 Visa.
The IH-4 Visa is for children of U.S. Citizens from Hague Convention Countries who will complete the adoption process in the US. Both the IR-4 and IH4 Visa holders obtain green cards upon entry into the US. IR4 Visa and IH-4 Visa children become U.S. citizens once their adoption has been completed in the United States.
Documents such as the child’s birth certificate, evidence that the child’s biological parent/s gave them up for adoption, and proof that confirms the US citizen’s guardianship need to be prepared in processing intercountry adoption immigrant visas. These are the general costs for intercountry adoption visas.
- Form I-600, Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative: $775
- Form I-800, Application for Determination of Suitability to Adopt a Child from a Convention Country: $775
- Biometrics fee: $85
- Costs for a medical exam, documentation, and travel expenses vary
6. IR-5 Visa
The IR-5 Visa is an immigrant visa that allows foreign parents of U.S. citizens to obtain green cards. The IR5 Visa allows foreign parents to live with their children in the U.S. and work without an EAD.
The IR-5 Visa is sponsored by a U.S. citizen child who is at least 21 years old of a foreign parent. The U.S. sponsor must have a valid address in the United States. The parent/child relationship must be established with documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce or annulment decrees. These are the fees for an IR5 Visa application.
- Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative: $535
- DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application: $325
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) fee: $220
- Costs for a medical exam, documentation, and travel expenses vary
7. F-2A and F2B Visas
The F-2A Visa and F-2B Visa are second-preference family-based immigration visas. The F2A Visa is granted to spouses and unmarried children under 21 of US permanent residents. The F2B Visa is granted to unmarried children aged 21 and above of US permanent residents. The F-2B and F-2A Visas reunite green card holders with their foreign spouses and children and allow them to become US permanent residents.
The sponsoring green card holder must be at least 18 and have a registered address in the US. Documents needed to apply for the F-2A Visa and F-2B Visa are marriage certificates, birth certificates or adoption certificates, and divorce or death certificates. Here are the fees associated with submitting an F2A or F2B Visa application.
- Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative: $535
- DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application: $325
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) fee: $220
- Costs for a medical exam, documentation, and travel expenses vary
8. F-3 Visa
The F-3 Visa is given to foreign married children over 21 of U.S. citizens. The F3 Visa allows the spouse and minor children along with the foreign married child to become green card holders.
The sponsoring U.S. citizen parent should have a valid US address and prove the parent/child relationship. Supporting documents need in the F-3 Visa application include birth or adoption certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce certificates. Here are the fees for filing an F3 Visa.
- Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative: $535
- DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application: $325
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) fee: $220
- Costs for a medical exam, documentation, and travel expenses vary
9. F-4 Visa
The F-4 Visa is an immigrant visa for the foreign siblings of U.S. citizens. The F4 Visa allows the dependent spouses and minor children of married foreign siblings to become permanent residents of the US.
The U.S. citizen must be at least 21 years old and live in the US to sponsor an F-4 Visa. Birth certificates and applicable marriage or divorce certificates are needed documents to qualify for an F4 Visa. Here are the costs of an F-4 Visa application.
- Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative: $535
- DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application: $325
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) fee: $220
- Costs for a medical exam, documentation, and travel expenses vary
10. EB-1 Visa
The EB-1 Visa is the first-preference employment-based immigration visa for persons with extraordinary ability (EB-1A), outstanding professors or researchers (EB-1B), and multinational managers or executives (EB-1C). A person with extraordinary ability (EB-1A) in the arts, sciences, education, or athletics must have extensive documentation and proof of national or international acclaim in their field. EB1A applicants are able to enter the US to continue their work in their fields of expertise. Outstanding professors and researchers (EB-1B) must have at least 3 years of experience in teaching or research and be recognized internationally. EB1B applications are allowed to pursue tenure or comparable research positions at U.S. universities or institutions of higher education. Multinational managers and executives (EB-1C) must have been employed for a minimum of 1 year within the 3 years of the visa application. EB1C applicants are able to work as managers and executives of multinational companies with a US branch.
There is no requirement for labor certification for an EB1 Visa application. A labor certification is obtained from the Department of Labor (DOL) and proves that there is no available qualified American to fill the job position. EB-1A applicants do not need to have a job offer and can self-petition for an EB-1 Visa. EB-1B and EB-1C applicants need to have job offers and a sponsoring employer to qualify for the EB-1 Visa. These are the fees for filing an EB1 Visa.
- Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker: $700
- DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application (applicants outside the US): $325
- Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence (applicants within the US): $1,140
- Biometrics fee: $85
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) fee: $220
- Costs for a medical exam, documentation, and travel expenses vary
11. EB-2 Visa
The EB-2 Visa is the second-preference employment-based immigration visa for professionals with advanced degrees (EB-2A), persons with exceptional ability (EB-2B), and persons with a National Interest Waiver (EB-2C). Persons holding an advanced degree (EB-2A) must have at least a bachelor’s degree and 5 years of work experience in their field. Persons with exceptional ability (EB-2B) in the arts, sciences, or business must benefit the U.S. economy, education, culture, and welfare. Persons with a National Interest Waiver (EB-2C) do not need a labor certification by proving that waiving the conditions of a job offer would benefit the US.
Employers need to secure a labor certification for their EB2A and EB2B Visa applicants. An EB2C applicant can file for the EB2 Visa on their own. These are the fees for an EB-2 Visa application.
- Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker: $700
- DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application (applicants outside the US): $325
- Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence (applicants within the US): $1,140
- Biometrics fee: $85
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) fee: $220
- Costs for a medical exam, documentation, and travel expenses vary
12. EB-3 Visa
The EB-3 Visa is the third-preference employment-based immigration visa for skilled workers, professionals, and unskilled workers. Skilled workers are persons with a minimum of 2 years of training or experience. Professionals are persons with at least a bachelor’s degree or its foreign equivalent. Unskilled workers are persons with less than 2 years of training or experience.
All applicants for the EB3 must have labor certification and employer sponsorship. Biographic records, academic qualification documents, and a letter of job offer are key documents in an EB-3 Visa application. Here are the fees for an EB3 Visa application.
- Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker: $700
- DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application (applicants outside the US): $325
- Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence (applicants within the US): $1,140
- Biometrics fee: $85
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) fee: $220
- Costs for a medical exam, documentation, and travel expenses vary
13. EB-4 Visa
The EB-4 Visa is the fourth-preference employment-based immigrant visa for an Amerasian (born after December 31, 1950 and before October 23, 1982), a widow(er) of a US citizen, and special immigrants. Special immigrants include the following.
- Religious workers
- Panama Canal Company Employee, Canal Zone Government Employee, or US Government in the Canal Zone Employee
- Certain Foreign Medical Graduates
- G-4 International Organization Employee or Family Member or North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)-6 employee or family member
- Broadcasters in the U.S.
- Afghan or Iraqi translators, or nationals who worked for or on behalf of the US government
EB4 Visa applicants are generally sponsored by a US employer. There are cases when a foreign citizen can self-petition for the EB-4 Visa such as parents, spouses, and children of abusive US citizens. EB4 Visa applicants must have a valid and permanent full-time job offer from a US employer supported by documents such as curriculum vitae, diplomas, and certificates. These are the costs of filing for an EB-4 Visa.
- Form I-360 Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant: $435
- DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application (applicants outside the US): $325
- Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence (applicants within the US): $1,140
- Biometrics fee: $85
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) fee: $220
- Costs for a medical exam, documentation, and travel expenses vary
14. EB-5 Visa
The EB-5 Visa is the fifth-preference employment-based immigrant visa for foreign investors. The EB5 Visa grants a green card to the foreign investor, his/her spouse, and unmarried children under 21. The minimum investment required for an EB 5 Visa is $800,000 in a targeted employment area (TEA). A targeted employment area (TEA) is a rural area or region of high unemployment. The U.S. business investment must create at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. citizens.
The foreign investor does not need sponsorship or labor certification to apply for the EB-5 Visa. The investment must be from legal sources of funds including salaries, business profits, gifts, inheritance, or loans. These are the fees for filing an EB5 visa application.
- Form I-526, Immigrant Petition by Alien Investor: $3,675
- DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application (applicants outside the US): $325
- Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence (applicants within the US): $1,140
- Form I-829, Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status: $3,750
- Biometrics fee: $85
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) fee: $220
- Costs for a medical exam, documentation, and travel expenses vary
15. Diversity Visa
The Diversity Immigrant Visa Program (DV Program) is given to foreign citizens from countries with low rates of immigration (less than 50,000) to the United States in the past 5 years. Random lottery selection is used to pick foreign citizens to be granted green cards via the Diversity Visa. Diversity Visa applicants must have at least a high school education or 2 years of work experience in the past 5 years in a job that requires at least 2 years of training or experience.
- The fee for DV-2022 applicants is $330 per person. Additional green card fees include the following for the Diversity Visa.
- DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application (applicants outside the US): $325
- Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence (applicants within the US): $1,140
- Biometrics fee: $85
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) fee: $220
- Costs for a medical exam, documentation, and travel expenses vary
16. Returning Resident Visa
The Returning Resident Visa (SB-1) is an immigrant visa for permanent residents who have remained outside the U.S. for more than 1 year or beyond the validity of their Re-entry Permit. Applicants for the Returning Resident Visa must have had permanent resident status at the time of departure from the US with the intent of returning. The reasons for the extended temporary visit outside the U.S. must be proven to be out of the applicant’s control and responsibility.
Documents required for a Returning Resident Visa include the applicant’s green card, re-entry permit, proof of ties to the US, airline tickets, and passport stamps. These are the fees associated with a Returning Resident Visa.
- Form DS-117, Application to Determine Returning Resident Status: $180
- Processing fee: $205
- DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application: $325
- Costs for a medical exam, documentation, and travel expenses vary
What are the Nonimmigrant Visas?
A nonimmigrant visa is a stamp on the passport of a foreign citizen that indicates their eligibility to enter the United States temporarily. A U.S. nonimmigrant visa is commonly issued for education, employment, business, tourism, and diplomatic purposes. Nonimmigrant visa holders are required to return to their home countries once their nonimmigrant status expires.
In this section we will go over nonimmigrant visa classification under Student Visas (F and M), Visitor Visas (B), Exchange Visitor Visas (J and Q), Diplomatic and Official Visas, and Temporary Work Visas (H, I, L, O, P, R, TN).
1. F and M Student Visas
The F-1 Visa and M-1 Visa are nonimmigrant visas for foreign students who wish to study in the United States. The F1 Visa is for students studying at Student Exchange and Visitor Program (SEVP)-approved academic institutions. Student Exchange and Visitor Program (SEVP)-approved institutions include universities, high schools, seminaries, private elementary schools, and conservatories. The M1 Visa is for foreign students studying vocational courses such as cooking, cosmetology, and mechanical classes in SEVP-approved institutions. F-1 Visa holders are able to work with restrictions and bring their dependents under the F-2 Visa. M-1 Visa holders can get a driver’s license and open a bank account during their stay in the US.
Student Visa holders have to return to their home countries after finishing their studies. Foreign students need to have strong ties to their home countries in order to prove nonimmigrant intent. Foreign students need to be proficient in English or be enrolled in English-language courses. Proof of funds is needed to support the financial capacity to study in the US. Here are the common fees for the F-1 Visa and M-1 Visa.
- SEVIS I-901 fee: $350
- Visa application processing fee: $160
2. B Visitor Visas
Visitor Visas are nonimmigrant visas for foreign citizens going to the US temporarily for business (B-1) or tourism (B-2) purposes. B-1 Visa holders are allowed to negotiate contracts, consult with business associates, sell an estate, and attend conventions or conferences in the US. B-2 Visa holders are able to vacation, visit friends or relatives, get medical treatment, enroll in short recreational courses, and attend events in the US. Visitor Visa holders cannot study and work in the U.S. as nonimmigrants.
B Visitor Visa applicants must provide evidence of funds to finance their trip and expenses while traveling to and staying in the US. Evidence of strong ties to their home country such as their job, properties, and family is needed to prove nonimmigrant intent. The cost of filing a B-1/B-2 Visa is $160.
3. J and Q Exchange Visitor Visas
J and Q Exchange Visitor Visas are nonimmigrant visas for foreign citizens approved to participate in exchange visitor programs in the United States. The J-1 Visa is for foreign citizens in exchange programs administered by the U.S. Department of State (DOS).
The Q-1 Visa is for foreign citizens in exchange programs administered by the USCIS. Exchange visitor visa holders are able to gain valuable knowledge, skills, and cultural insights during their stay in the US. Exchange visitors cannot engage in activities other than their intended purpose in the US. The cost for a J-1 Visa is $160. The cost for a Q-1 Visa is $190.
4. Diplomatic and Official A Visas
Diplomatic and Official Visas (A) are nonimmigrant visas granted to diplomats and foreign government officials traveling to the U.S. for duties and activities on behalf of their national government. Diplomats and Government officials are able to bring their immediate family members, personal employees, attendants, and domestic workers of diplomats and government officials under the A Visa category. Diplomats and officials performing activities other than their government functions have to apply for a different visa when entering the US. A diplomatic note and Form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application are key requirements for a Diplomatic and Official A Visa. Consular officers determine whether persons with diplomatic passports can be exempt from paying visa fees.
5. E-1 Visa
The E-1 Treaty Trader Visa is a nonimmigrant visa for nationals of U.S. treaty countries who will be engaging in international trade in the US. Treaty countries are nations that maintain a treaty of commerce and navigation with the United States such as Egypt, France, Mexico, Thailand, and Australia. The E1 Visa is eligible for employees of treaty nation companies, foreign treaty traders, and dependents of E1 Visa holders. The E-1 Visa is valid for 2 years and must be renewed to retain legal E1 status in the US.
Documents required for an E1 Visa are Form DS-160, proof of nationality, business registration documents, stock or share certificates, and trade brochures. Here are the fees for an E-1 Visa.
- Visa application processing fee (if applying at the U.S. consulate): $205
- Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker (if applying at USCIS): $460
- Reciprocity fees and Issuance fees vary per country
6. E-2 Visa
The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa is a nonimmigrant visa for foreign investors from treaty countries seeking to operate a business in the United States. The E2 Visa is a dual intent visa available to foreign investors that generate a substantial investment for a U.S. business. E-2 Visa holders can apply for the EB-5 Visa or other employment-based immigration visas to become permanent residents.
Business registration and a business plan are important documents to prepare for an E2 Visa. These are the main costs of an E-2 Visa application.
- Visa application processing fee (if applying at the U.S. consulate): $205
- Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker (if applying at USCIS): $460
- Reciprocity fees and Issuance fees vary per country
Read more information about E2 Visa
7. E-3 Visa
The E-3 Visa is a nonimmigrant visa for Australian nationals working in specialty occupations. A specialty occupation involves the theoretical and practical application of highly specialized knowledge that requires at least a bachelor’s degree. The E3 Visa applicant must have a job offer and proof of qualification to be able to work temporarily in the US. E3 Visa holders can bring their spouses with them to the US where they can work legally.
A labor certification is required for an E-3 Visa application. The cost of an E3 Visa is $270.
8. H-1B Visa and H-4 Visa
The H-1B Visa is a nonimmigrant temporary work visa for foreign citizens in specialty occupations. The dependents of the H-1B visa holder can come to the US under the H-4 Visa. H-4 Visa spouses can work with an EAD in the US. The H1B Visa has a provision for dual intent that allows foreign workers and their H-4 Visa dependents to apply for permanent residence in the US. The H-1B Visa is subject to random lottery because of the limited number of visas available per year.
A US employer has to sponsor a foreign worker and file a labor certification prior to the H-1B Visa application. Supporting documents such as diplomas, certificates, and job contracts are needed to file an H1B Visa. These are the costs for an H-1B Visa most of which are paid for by the sponsoring employer.
- Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker: $460
- Registration fee: $10
- Public Law 114-113 Fee: $4,000
- USCIS Anti-fraud Fee: $500
- American Competitiveness and Workforce Improvement Act (AICWA) of 1998 fee: $750 (for employers with less than 25 employees); 1,500 (for employers with more than 25 employees)
- Immigration attorney, visa stamping fees vary per country
9. H-1B1 Visa
The H-1B1 Visa is a temporary nonimmigrant visa for specialty occupation workers from Singapore and Chile. The H1B1 has a short validity of 18 months that can be renewed indefinitely.
U.S. employer sponsorship and labor certification must be secured before filing an H-1B1 Visa. A letter of a job offer and evidence of education or work experience are needed documents for the H1B1 Visa. These are the fees for an H-1B1 Visa for Chile and Singapore nationals.
- Visa application fee: $190
- Visa issuance fee varies per country or location
10. H-2A and H-2B Visas
The H-2A Visa and H-2B Visa are nonimmigrant visas for foreign temporary seasonal workers. The H2A Visa is for temporary workers performing seasonal agricultural services. The H2B Visa is for temporary foreign workers performing seasonal non-agricultural jobs. H-2B and H-2A Visa workers are allowed to bring their dependents with them to the US. H2A and H2B Visa holders are usually only allowed to stay in the U.S. for 1 year or less.
The U.S. employer petitions the seasonal worker and files a temporary labor certification. Here are the fees for an H-2A Visa or H-2B Visa.
- Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker: $460
- Visa application at a US embassy or consulate abroad: $190
11. H-3 Visa
The H-3 Visa is a nonimmigrant visa for foreign trainees and special education exchange visitors granting temporary entry into the United States. Foreign citizens must be coming to the U.S. to enroll in a training program that is not available in their home countries. The training cannot be an academic degree or medical training. H3 Visa holders must return to their home country to apply the knowledge and skills they gained during their stay in the US. H-3 Visa holders are allowed to bring their dependents with them to the US. H3 Visa holders cannot work in the US unless necessary for their training.
The H-3 Visa applicant must have a formal invitation from a U.S. training institution. Supporting documents should include the curriculum and structure of the training, the careers and professions that will benefit from the training, and reasons why the training program does not exist in the applicant’s home country. These are the costs of an H-3 Visa application.
- Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker: $460
- Visa application fee: $190
12. L-1 Visa and L-2 Visa
The L-1 Visa is a nonimmigrant visa for intracompany transferring of managers and executives (L-1A) or specialized knowledge workers (L-1B) of multinational companies to the US. The L1 Visa applicant must be working for at least a year for the multinational company within 3 years of the L-1 Visa application. Dependents of L1 Visa holders are able to enter the US on an L-2 Visa. L2 spouses of multinational managers and executives can work without an EAD. The L1 Visa and L-2 Visa allow for dual intent and application for a green card. L-1 Visa holders can transition to the EB5 Visa or an employment-based immigration visa to become permanent residents. L1 Visa holders can only work for the multinational company that transferred them to the US.
Both the multinational employer and foreign employee need to provide documents such as organizational charts, proof of intracompany transfer, and business financial statements for an L1 Visa application. The L1 Visa costs are below.
- Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker fee- $460
- Visa application processing fee- $190
- Anti-Fraud Fee- $500
- Public Law 113-114 Fee (applies if your employer has over 50 employees with more than half under L-1A, L-1B, or H-1B status)- $4,500
13. O Visas
The O-1 Visa is a nonimmigrant visa for foreign citizens with extraordinary abilities or achievements in sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics. O-1 Visa applicants must have nationally or internationally recognized awards and achievements. O1 Visa holders can bring their assistant/s under the O-2 Visa and their dependents under the O-3 Visa. O3 Visa holders are not allowed to work legally in the US.
The O-1 Visa is sponsored by an employer or agent. A written contract, itinerary, and proof of extraordinary abilities and achievements are key documentation required of the O1 Visa applicant. Here are the costs for an O-1 Visa.
- Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker (Form I-129)- $460
- Visa application processing fee- $190
14. P Visas
The P Visa is a short-term nonimmigrant work visa for individual or team athletes and entertainers (P-1), artists and entertainers in exchange programs (P-2), and culturally unique artists and entertainers (P-3). Dependents of P1, P2, and P3 Visa holders can come to the US under the P-4 Visa. P Visa holders are only allowed to work for their sponsoring employer and can remain in the US only to complete an event, tour, or season.
Evidence of international recognition, nomination or receipt of an international award, and records of commercial or critical success are some documents to support a P Visa application. The P Visa filing fee is $460.
15. R-1 Visa
The R-1 Visa is a nonimmigrant visa for foreign religious workers employed by a religious organization in the US. R1 Visa holders can live and work for the duration of their visa in the US. the R1 Visa is valid for an initial 30 months and can be extended one time for another 30 months.
A petition for the R-1 Visa is filed by the U.S. employer or organization. Proof of affiliation to the religious organization, income tax returns, and evidence of religious purpose are needed documents for an R1 Visa. The costs for an R-1 Visa are the following.
- Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker (Form I-129)- $460
- Visa application processing fee- $190
16. TN Visa
The TN Visa is a temporary nonimmigrant work visa for citizens of Canada and Mexico with jobs under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) List of Professions. Examples of North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) professionals are accountants, engineers, dentists, and registered nurses. The TN Visa is valid for 3 years and can be extended unlimitedly. Dependents of the TN Visa holder cannot work legally in the US.
A job verification letter, evidence of citizenship, diplomas, and certificates are needed for a TN Visa. Canadian citizens can apply directly at a U.S. port of entry. Mexican nationals have to apply at a UE embassy or consulate in Mexico. The costs for a TN Visa include the following.
- Total cost at the border including the cost of filing and the cost of Arrival/Departure Record for Canadians (I-94 ) – $56
- Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker (optional for a Canadian citizen who wants to obtain a TN Visa)- $460
- Visa application processing fee for Mexicans – $160
17. I Visa
The I Visa is a nonimmigrant visa for representatives of the foreign press, radio, film, and other information media carrying out professional activities for their organization in the US. The I Visa allows for attending and speaking at conferences, conventions, or seminars with certain restrictions. Creating content for documentaries, informative, and educational nature is within the coverage of the I Visa. Engaging in activities that are not related to your purpose disqualified you from getting an I Visa.
The home office or organization of the I Visa applicant should be situated outside the United States. Proof of employment, credentials issued by a foreign journalistic association, and evidence of returning to your home country are some requirements for the I Visa. These are the costs of filing an I Visa.
- Visa application fee: $160
- Visa issuance fees vary per country
Which Type of Visa is Required for Temporary Stay in the United States?
A nonimmigrant visa is needed for short and temporary stays in the United States. Nonimmigrant visas require applicants to maintain strong ties to their home countries as evidence of their nonimmigrant intent. Most nonimmigrant visas are issued to international students, temporary foreign workers, business and tourist visitors, diplomats, and foreign government officials.
Which Type of Visa is for Students in the United States?
The F-1 Visa and M-1 Visa are student visas for international citizens getting an education in the US. The F1 Visa is for students studying at accredited academic institutions. The M1 Visa is for students enrolled in vocational courses.
Which Type of Visa is for Workers in the United States?
Immigrant and nonimmigrant visas are available for foreign workers. Employment-based immigration visas have a direct path to permanent residence in the US. The EB-1 Visa, EB-2 Visa, EB-3 Visa, and EB-4 Visa are sponsored by U.S. employers on behalf of foreign applicants. Foreign workers with green cards have no restrictions on their employment and residence in the US. Nonimmigrant visas for temporary work in the US include the H Visas, L-1 Visa, O Visas, P Visas, TN Visa, R-1 Visa, and I Visas. Temporary work visas require foreign citizens to return to their home country upon the expiration of their nonimmigrant status. Temporary work visa holders can only work for the employer that sponsored their application. Specific visas for working in the US such as H-1B and L-1 are dual intent which means that these foreign workers can apply for a green card legally during their stay in the US.
Which Type of Visa is for Investors in the United States?
The EB-5 Visa and the E-2 Visa are the two investor visas in the United States. The EB5 Visa is an immigrant visa that grants the foreign investor in USA a green card via investment. The minimum investment should create at least 10 full-time employment for Americans. The E-2 Visa is a dual intent nonimmigrant visa for foreign investors from US treaty countries. The E2 Visa holder must invest a substantial amount in a US business and be directly involved in its operations and management. Changing to an EB 5 Visa is one way for an E2 investor to become a permanent resident in the United States.
Is a Visa Required for Entry Into the United States?
Yes, most foreign citizens are required to obtain a U.S. Visa to be eligible for U.S. entry. Countries that fall under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) and select visa-exempt countries allow foreign nationals to enter the United States without a US Visa. The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows nationals from 40 countries to temporarily enter the US without a visa for 90 days. Citizens eligible for the VWP must secure an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to their US arrival. Countries that are eligible for the VWP include the United Kingdom, Singapore, New Zealand, Taiwan, and Australia. Visa exemption is applicable to citizens from Canada, Palau, the Marshall Islands, Micronesia, and Bermuda.