What Is a Visa?

A visa is an official document that allows you to enter and stay in a foreign country for a specific period. In the U.S., visas are generally divided into two main categories: immigrant visas and non-immigrant visas. Immigrant visas are for those who plan to live permanently in the U.S., while non-immigrant visas are for temporary stays, such as for tourism, work, or study. Citizens from certain participating countries, such as Australia, Spain, and Japan, may not need visas for stays of less than 90 days. 

Who Can Apply for a Visa?

Almost anyone can apply for a U.S. visa, but eligibility depends on various factors like nationality, purpose of visit, and individual circumstances. For example, students must be accepted into a U.S. educational institution before applying for a student visa. For immigrants, eligibility often involves sponsorship by a U.S. citizen. Sponsors are usually immediate family members or employers. Sit down with our immigrant visa lawyers to learn more about your eligibility. 

Types of Visas

The first step to getting a visa is to determine which type of visa you need. Keep in mind the requirements differ depending on which type of U.S. immigrant visa you need, and working with a legal professional is the best way to keep everything organized. Here’s a brief overview of some of the most common visa types: 

Student Visas

F-1—For academic studies at an accredited U.S. institution.
M-1—For vocational or non-academic studies.

Work Visas

H-1B—For specialized workers in fields like I.T., engineering, and science.
L-1—For employees transferring to another location within the same company. 
O-1—For individuals with extraordinary abilities in arts, sciences, or business.

Tourist and Business Visas

B-1—For business visits, including contract negotiations and professional conferences. 
B-2 Visa—For tourism and family visits.

Immigrant Visas

Family-Sponsored—For family members of U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
Employment-Based—For skilled workers and professionals.

How to Secure Your U.S. Visa

Once you’ve decided which type of visa most closely matches your needs, you can move on to the next steps. Our team will help you complete the appropriate visa application form and pay the correct fees. Some immigration and non-immigration visas require interviews, and you may need to schedule one at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Make sure to bring all the proper documents to your interview appointment. After speaking with a U.S. official, your visa application will be approved or denied. 

How Long Does It Take to Get Immigrant Visa Status?

The timeline for obtaining a visa varies widely depending on the type of visa and individual circumstances. On average, processing times range from a few weeks to several months. In some cases, expedited processing is available for an additional fee. This is especially useful for urgent situations but is subject to approval by the U.S. authorities.

Why Work With an Immigration Lawyer? 

Obtaining a visa is complicated, and working with an immigration lawyer can relieve some of your stress during the lengthy process. Over the years, Nava Law Group, P.C. has helped clients secure everything from business visas to diverse immigrant visas. Here’s why hiring an attorney is so beneficial: 

Start Planning Your Visa Application Today 

With decades of experience in immigration law, Nava Law Group, P.C. is uniquely positioned to help you on your immigration journey. Our expertise is wide-ranging, from special immigrant visas to family-based immigration. Contact us today to consult with one of our legal professionals.