United States Visa: understand the types

Travel to the United States is the dream of many people, whether to study, work, visit or live permanently. But, do you know what types of visas for the United States?

United States Visa: what are the types?

There are more than 20 visa types for the United States and this can raise questions when choosing which option to apply, so always be informed to avoid mistakes and rework.

In this post, we will address and clarify the doubts of the main types of visa that are: B1, B2, F1, J1, H, and L. Each has its function and should be requested according to its purpose. Importantly, the visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. At the time of immigration is that the officer will formalize your entry into the country or not.

American Visa B1  – Business & Academics

The B1 visa is intended for those who will go to the United States for business, for example, exhibition halls, meetings, international fairs, signing contracts, among others. However, it can also be used for individuals who will volunteer in partnership with a charity or religious institution.

It is important to always make it clear in immigration that you are visiting the United States for business reasons, otherwise the officer may understand that it is working. In this way, the officer can bar your entry to American soil, as the visa is another.

Depending on the case, the B1 visa can be used for academic purposes as well – event speakers are eligible for the B1 visa, as well as conference or seminar attendees, researchers. The important thing is not to receive any kind of compensation for such an act.

American Visa B2  – Tourism and Medical Treatment

One of the most common visa types for the United States is B2, as it is intended for people who want to visit the United States. Medical treatments are also included in the B2 visa.

When applying for a visa, in some cases there is the possibility to apply for a B1 and B2 visa together. It’s a great alternative for business and leisure travelers to the United States. Since you only apply for both types of visa once and pay only one fee.

It is important to arrange the visa in advance as the process requires planning. You must complete the form on the US government website, separate the required documentation – proving income and ties with Brazil – and schedule an appointment at the nearest consulate.

The visa is valid for 10 years, but it is only possible to stay up to 6 months on America after entering the country. So whenever you need you can return to the country within this validity.

American Visa F1 – Student

A student visa for the United States is for anyone who wants to study in the country, whether at a college, university, or other institution. Even language schools, elementary or high schools are included in this type of visa.

Those who have this visa are allowed to study and work, but with some restrictions: the job has to be focused on their area of study and the university has to approve in advance. Those who have an F-1 visa can apply for OPT (Optical Practical Training). In resume, it is a permission for students to work and gain experience and practice in their area of education. The OPT has a duration of 12 months and can be requested during or after the undergraduate, MBA, post or doctorate course.

American Visa J1  – Exchange

The J1 visa is for anyone who will participate in any cultural exchange or training program in the country for a short time – immigration is not allowed. Some eligible J1 visa programs are au pair, government visitor, doctor, summer business trip, training, teacher, among others. The length of stay of the visa depends on the type of program chosen.

Each type of program has its requirements, for example, in the case of exchange as au pair the requirements are:

• The person must be between 18 and 26 years old,
• Have a good level of English;
• At least 200 hours of experience with children;
• Hold a high school diploma;
• Not have a criminal record;
• Stay at least 12 months in the United States; and,
• Be the first time as an au pair in the country.

American Visa H – Temporary Work

Type H visa is for temporary work, i.e., it is for the individual who is hired by an American company to work in the United States. The company has to claim and prove that it has not found any other suitable candidate for the position in the country during the hiring process.

American Visa L – Temporary Work Transferred

The L-type visa is for people who, for example, work in a multinational in Brazil, and will be transferred to the US headquarters – must be the same company. There are some requirements that need to be met, such as: The employee must hold a management or executive level position, have been with the company for over a year, and have a highly qualified and specific knowledge.

Any questions about the United States Visa?

The best way to identify which visa is right for your trip is by getting information or scheduling an appointment. In consulting we will understand your real needs and indicate the most appropriate visa, answer questions and assist in the documentation and interview process. Contact us!