Travel Visas: Your Guide to Visiting the USA with GradWalk

Travel visas are temporary, non-immigrant visas issued for a limited period, typically around six months, though the duration can vary. These visas do not provide access to government facilities such as health care or accommodation.

Types of US Visit Visas

For those planning to visit the United States, there are two primary types of visit visas:

  1. Nonimmigrant Visas for Business (B-1)
  2. Nonimmigrant Visas for Tourism (B-2)
  3. Combination of Both Purposes (B-1/B-2)

B-1 Visa Activities: Holders of the B-1 visa can engage in:

  • Vacationing in the US
  • Touring various cities
  • Visiting friends or family
  • Attending social events hosted by organizations
  • Receiving medical treatment
  • Participating in sports or music events
  • Enrolling in short-term courses

The B-2 visa is ideal for short-term visits (up to 6 months) and may sometimes be issued as a multiple-entry visa valid for up to 10 years.

Key Details for the B-2 Visa:

  • You must demonstrate to US consular officials that you do not intend to immigrate to the US.
  • Provide evidence of your intent to return to your home country.
  • Schedule appointments for biometric collection and a visa interview.
  • Children under 14 and adults over 80 are typically exempt from attending an interview but must submit their documents at the visa application center.
  • Those renewing a US visit visa can generally do so by booking an appointment at the visa application center and submitting documents in person.

Required Documents:

  • Original passport with at least six months’ validity from the date of travel
  • Two recent passport-sized photographs (if required)
  • Completed and signed DS-160 form
  • Proof of funds
  • A letter explaining the purpose of travel
  • Evidence of intent to return to your home country
  • Printout of the visa interview appointment letter
  • Digital and hard copies of photographs according to specific requirements

Applying Process:

  1. Complete the DS-160 application form and obtain the ten-digit barcode.
  2. Pay the required application fees.
  3. Schedule two appointments: one for the embassy or consulate interview, and another at the Offsite Facilitation Center (OFC) for biometric collection.
  4. Attend the personal visa interview. If all criteria are met, you will receive your US tourist visa.

Cost of Applying for US Visit Visas:

  • The application fee for most non-immigrant visas is US$160.
  • Petition-based visas, such as work and religious visas, cost US$190.
  • K visas are US$265, and E visas are US$205.
  • Additional fees may apply for visa issuance, medical exams, and proof of character.

Processing Time: Visa processing typically takes 2–3 days but can be delayed depending on embassy or consulate traffic. Your passport can be collected from the VAC center or delivered via courier.

For personalized assistance with your US visit visa application, contact GradWalk, your trusted partner in navigating the complexities of international education and travel.