Non-Immigrant Visas FAQ
Q: What is the difference between an immigrant visa and a nonimmigrant visa?
A: An immigrant visa typically allows you to live and work in the United States for as long as you wish. A nonimmigrant visa is usually for temporary visitors to the United States who may be here to travel, seek medical attention, conduct business, or study. Generally, people in the United States with a nonimmigrant visa are not allowed to work here, but there are exceptions that allow U.S. employers to hire foreign nationals as temporary workers.
Q: What is consular processing of a nonimmigrant visa?
A: Consular processing of a nonimmigrant visa is the procedure in which you apply for a nonimmigrant visa at the United States embassy or consulate in your home country.
Q: Do I need a consulate interview if I have traveled to the United States before?
A: No. A visa application drop off system is available for repeat travelers. You also have the option of scheduling a repeat interview with the Consular Officer if you do not want to participate in the drop off program.
Q: How long can I stay in the United States on a temporary visa?
A: When you enter the United States, you will be given a small card called an I-94 card. A Customs and Border Protection officer will stamp the card with a date as you enter the country. This is the deadline date by which you must leave the U.S., even if you still have a valid visa stamped in your passport when that date arrives. However, if your visa is "multiple entry," you can use it to reenter the United States as soon as you like. Most visitor visas permit multiple entries, but some visas only allow one visit.
Q: Does a visa guarantee me entry into the United States?
A:
No. The visa is issued by the Department of State Consular Office abroad. A separate United States agency--the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)--has the authority to deny admission at the port of entry. The USCIS also determines how long you remain in the United States; the Department of State Consular Office does not make this determination, even though it issues the visa.
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