United States Visa Categories Types
The U.S. Embassy in Islamabad and the U.S. Consulate General in Pakistan provide visa services for individuals planning to visit the United States temporarily. Whether you’re traveling for tourism, business, education, or work, understanding the right visa category is essential. Here’s a detailed guide to some of the most important U.S. nonimmigrant visa categories.
Visa Application Services in Pakistan
In Pakistan, services like visa interview scheduling, fee collection, and document delivery are managed by Yugo.pk. Visit their website for comprehensive details on how to apply for a U.S. nonimmigrant visa and explore a full directory of visa categories.
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Types of US Visas
Immigrant Visas – U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Pakistan
Key U.S. Nonimmigrant Visa Categories
B1/B2 Visas: Business and Tourism
B1: Business Trips
B2: Tourism
- B1 Visa: For business trips such as attending conferences or meetings.
- B2 Visa: For tourism, medical treatment, or visiting family.
- B1/B2 Combination: Allows for both business and tourism activities during the same trip.
Validity: Up to 10 years.
Stay Duration: Up to 180 days per visit.
Multiple Entries: Permitted.
Application process: Requires an in-person interview at a US embassy or consulate.
Purpose of travel: Applicants must specify their reason for traveling during the application.
F1 and M1 Visas: Student Visas
F1: Academic experience and explore work opportunities
M1: Vocational studies and work not allowed
- F1 Visa: For academic studies or language training programs. May allow limited work opportunities.
- M1 Visa: For vocational or non-academic programs. No work authorization.
Application Requirements:
- Valid passport.
- Complete Form DS-160 (Nonimmigrant Visa Application).
- Submit Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility).
- Pay the visa fee and register in the Student and Exchange Visitor System (SEVIS).
J1 Visa: Exchange Visitor Program
J1: Research and Training
The J1 visa facilitates work- and study-based exchange programs.
Who Qualifies: Students, scholars, interns, teachers, and au pairs.
Purpose: Practical training related to academic programs.
Duration: Up to 5 years, with an additional 30 days for departure preparation.
Dependents: Unmarried children under 21 and spouses may accompany.
E Visas: Treaty Traders, Investors, and Specialty Workers
E1: Treaty Trader
E2: Treaty Investor
E3: Nonimmigrant Workers
(Note: All are for short businesses)
- E1 Visa: For treaty traders engaged in substantial trade between the U.S. and their home country.
- E2 Visa: For treaty investors managing significant U.S. business investments.
- E3 Visa: For Australian nationals in specialty occupations.
H Visas: Temporary Workers
H 1B: Example, Agricultural workers etc. (Short period)
H 2B: Example, Nonagricultural workers (Short period)
- H1B Visa: For specialty occupations requiring a bachelor’s degree or higher.
- H2B Visa: For non-agricultural temporary work, including seasonal labor.
K Visas: Family-Related Visas
K1: US Citizens Fiancé just for visit purpose
K3: Spouse of a U.S. citizen
- K1 Visa: For foreign fiancés of U.S. citizens. Must marry within 90 days of arrival.
- K3 Visa: For spouses of U.S. citizens awaiting immigrant visa approval.
L1 Visa: Intra-Company Transfers
L1: Transfer employees or company to the US
For employees transferring within the same company to a U.S. branch.
- L1A: For executives and managers (valid up to 7 years).
- L1B: For specialized knowledge workers (valid up to 5 years).
O and P Visas: Performers and Athletes
O: Entertainment shows, bands, athletic teams, athletes etc.
P: Entertainment shows, bands, athletic teams, athletes etc. (Group performers)
- O Visa: For individuals with extraordinary abilities in arts, sciences, or athletics.
- P Visa: For group performers like bands, sports teams, and entertainers.
R Visa: Religious Workers
R: Religious Purpose
For individuals traveling to the U.S. for temporary religious work, promoting cultural exchange and religious understanding.
How to Apply for a Nonimmigrant Visa
- Complete Form DS-160 online.
- Pay the application fee through an authorized center.
- Schedule an interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
- Prepare supporting documents, including a valid passport, photo, and specific forms based on your visa category.
- Attend the interview and answer questions regarding your travel purpose and ties to your home country.
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For more detailed instructions and application resources, visit the U.S. Department of State website or Yugo.pk.
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