Discuss You VIsa Needs with a leading U.S. Attorney: Call 408-271-9888

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Immigration Information Center

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Frequently Asked Questions about Nonimmigrant Visas

Q: What is a nonimmigrant visa? How is it different from an immigrant visa?

A: Nonimmigrant visas are granted to foreign nationals who wish to travel to the US for a temporary purpose, such as to visit friends and family, sight-see, attend an American university or participate in a temporary work program, among others. Immigrant visas allow foreign nationals to move permanently to the US and receive lawful permanent resident status. Those visiting the US on nonimmigrant visas are required to return to their home country once their allotted time has expired.

Q: What do you have to do to get a nonimmigrant visa?

A: Generally, you submit an application to the US embassy or consulate in your country of residence. Most applicants also will need to complete an interview with a consular or embassy officer prior to receiving approval or denial of their visa application. Applicants must have a current passport or other travel document, be able to prove they have applied for the correct nonimmigrant category and be eligible under US law for a visa. Applicants also must submit evidence of their ties to their home country and their intent to return there once their stay in the US has come to an end. Applicants may also need to prove their ability to provide for themselves financially while in the US.

There are many types of nonimmigrant visas. However, no matter what type of temporary visa is right for you, the job of convincing the United States Consular Officer in your country that should receive a visa is entirely your responsibility and your burden of proof. The biggest hurdle is establishing that you have such strong connections to you're your home country that you will be compelled to return there because of them. By contacting an attorney who understands immigration law and the consular process, you will be prepared for the consul interview and reduce the risk that your visa will be denied.

The Law Offices of Marcine A. Seid practice exclusively in the area of U.S. immigration law, including Non-Immigrant Business Visas. The firm is dedicated to providing the latest and most-appropriate immigration strategies for our clients, who include employers and individuals in California and throughout the United States and the world.

When you need a U.S. immigration lawyer who is well-versed in U.S. immigration and naturalization laws and will provide you with unsurpassed personal attention, contact the Law Offices of Marcine A. Seid.

Discuss your Visa Needs with a Leading U.S. Immigration Attorney:
Call (408) 271-9888

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Nonimmigrant Visas - An Overview

Nonimmigrant visas are temporary visas that allow foreign nationals to enter the US for a specific purpose for a specific amount of time. It is important that you apply for the right type of visa otherwise you will not be able to accomplish your goals once you reach the United States. Since the 2001 terrorist attacks, the process for obtaining a nonimmigrant visa has become stricter and may take longer than before. If you have questions about applying for a nonimmigrant visa, contact an experienced immigration attorney in your area. An immigration lawyer can answer your questions and help you determine which nonimmigrant visa fits your needs.

Visitor Visas

If you wish to visit family or friends, travel or conduct business temporarily in the US, then you should apply for a visitor's visa with your local US embassy or consulate. The citizens of some countries may not require a visitor's visa to travel to the US under the Visa Waiver Program.

Student Visas

Thousands of foreign students apply for and are granted visas to study in the United States every year. With increasing wait times and stricter requirements for receiving a student visa, it is important to complete the process correctly the first time.

Temporary Worker Visas

Foreign nationals seeking temporary employment in the US have several nonimmigrant visa choices. The US places caps on the number of nonimmigrant workers who can enter the country each year. The process for entering the US as a nonimmigrant worker is complex and should be initiated well in advance of the intended work start date.

Changing Visa Status

Each nonimmigrant visa is issued for a specific purpose and allows the visa holder to do things to accomplish that purpose. Sometimes, foreign nationals desire to change the purpose of their visit to the United States, such as a pleasure traveler who decides to attend school.

Nonimmigrant Visas Resource Links

United States Visas
The official United States government gateway resource for visas, including information on the different types of nonimmigrant visas, US policy on visas and tools for downloading visa applications and locating consul offices around the world.

United States Department of State
Government Web site providing information about visas, travel, consulates, the visa waiver program and other useful information for people new to the country and those wishing to secure visas.

American Embassy Locations
This Web site provides links to US embassies, consulates and diplomatic missions arranged by continent.

United States Citizenship and Immigration Services
This US government site covers laws, regulations and news about immigration policies. Provides links to visa application forms and temporary worker forms and visa waiting times.

US Department of Homeland Security: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement: Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS)
Information about the SEVIS program, including statistical information on the number of foreign students in US higher education institutions and lists of SEVIS approved schools.