USA Guide: Visas & Permits
Which documents do you need when going abroad? What are the regulations on visas and residence permits? Our legal guide will help you understand the paperwork you need to complete before moving abroad.
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American ESTA
What is it and why do I need one?
As of 2009, citizens of countries which are listed under the Visa Waiver Program (VMP) are able to get a ESTA in order to travel to or via the United States. A ESTA gives you the permission to go to the US for either leisure or business purposes should your application be accepted. A ESTA acts as an alternative to a non-immigrant visa.
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Visas to the US
Differentiating between visa types
Most foreign citizens will require a visa to enter the United States. US immigration rules and regulations change rather frequently, so it is advised to check government websites each time you apply. For all types of travel, we recommend you seek advice from the US consulate in your country of residence to ensure you have the correct information.
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Visa applications
Applying for an immigrant visa
The application procedure and documentation for immigrant visas can vary depending on your visa category and your local US embassy or consulate. The first step to applying is to submit a petition for visa application, the processing period of this alone can take from around 5 months to several years depending on your sponsor.
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Non-immigrant visas
Visas for restricted stay in the US
A non-immigrant visa gives someone the right to come to the US temporarily, e.g. from a few days to as long as five years, and in certain cases to work, study or carry out other activities. There is no limit to the number of non-immigrant visas issued each year. Many non-immigrant visas are valid for a set period, often at the discretion of the immigration officer at the port of entry.
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Working non-immigrant visas
Working in the US
If you wish to work in the US for a few years, you will have to get a working visa. Work visas tend to be based on a specific offer of employment by an employer. This article covers the different types of visas, depending on the work you will be doing.
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Student visas
Studying in the US
If you want to study in the US, you will need to obtain a student visa. There are visas for academic, non-academic and exchange programs. Applying for a student visa can be a long process, so make sure you start applying well in advance of your course start date.
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Short-term visas
Tourism or business visits to the US
If you want to visit the US as a non-immigrant for a temporary stay up to 1 year, you will most likely require a visitor visa. These visas are for people who want to enter the US for short-term business trips (category B1) or for tourism purposes (category B2).
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Family-based visas
Joining your fiancé, spouse and family in the US
There are temporary visas that can be granted to fiancés, spouses and their children outside the US. If you are going to marry a US citizen and are planning on moving to the US to do so, you will need to apply for a category K visa.
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