What is a Visa?

Welcome to the Visa section of travel.state.gov, an official source of information about United States (U.S.) visa policy and procedures. Use this site to learn about different types of U.S. visas, the application process, and to better understand the requirements when applying for a visa, when you're planning to travel to the United States.

Millions of foreign visitors travel to the U.S. each year. Others come to live here permanently. International visitors and immigrants add greatly to our nation's cultural, education and economic life. We welcome them. At the same time, we need to do everything we can to keep everyone here, safe. We believe in secure borders and open doors.

A citizen of a foreign country, wishing to enter the U.S., generally must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. The type of visa you must have is defined by immigration law, and relates to the purpose of your travel. Having a U.S. visa allows you to travel to a port-of-entry (airport, for example) and request permission of the Department of Homeland Security, Customs Border Protection immigration officer to enter the U.S. A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States.

What is a Visa?

Visa Types for Immigrants

Immigration Classifications and Visa Categories

Immigrant Visa Processing - The National Visa Center (NVC)

Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

How to Get a Visa

Visa Application Forms

Temporary Visitors to the U.S.

Visa application and other types of processing fees collected by the Department of State.