The various steps involved in obtaining a nonimmigrant U.S. visa -- such as a student, H-1B, or tourist visa -- can take from a few days to several months. It all depends on which visa you are seeking, and whether getting that visa requires advance steps such as gaining admission to a U.S. school or having a would-be employer successfully file a visa petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Learn more about the various steps here.
The Day of Your Consular Interview for a U.S. Visa
Security, travel, and other concerns when preparing for your nonimmigrant visa interview.
Application Process for a B-1 or B-2 Visitor Visa
Find out what forms, documents, and fees you will need to prepare for your B visa application to a U.S. consulate.
Filling Out Form I-134 Affidavit of Support to Help a U.S. Visa Applicant
A friend or relative wishing to visit the U.S. may need you to demonstrate financial support.
Filling Out Form I-539 to Extend Nonimmigrant Status
Line-by-line instructions for filling out the application for an extension of your nonimmigrant status.
How to Increase Your Chances of Getting a U.S. Visitor Visa
Find out how consular officers make their decisions and what you can do to increase the chances that your visitor visa application is approved.
TN Visa Application Procedures for Canadians
The TN visa was created by the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), to ease the path toward a visa for professional-level workers from Canada as well as Mexico.
Making Sure Your TN Visa Won't Be Denied at Canada/U.S. Border
How to prevent common sources of trouble when applying at the border for a TN visa.
Visa or Green Card Denied: What to Do
What to do when a visa or green card is denied.
With individual chapters devoted to various nonimmigrant visas, this book provides detailed guidance to application processes.