Visitors wishing to visit the United States for business or for personal reasons must have valid visas. These can be obtained from the US Embassy or Consulate in the foreign country that the visitor lives in. Visitor visas are nonimmigrant visas for those who plan a short stay in the US. It is important that visitors apply for visas as early as possible before the planned visit since they sometimes take a while to receive.
The first step in getting visas is to apply online for a nonimmigrant visa. The applicant must also have a passport that is valid for travel to the US, including a passport photo that is two inches by two inches in size. There is an application fee that must be paid when applying for a visa as well. The applicant must have a clear purpose for visiting the country, and must have a plan for when they will depart. Enough money to cover travel costs must be documented, such as having a return ticket to the country of origin. Visitors must show that they have enough money to support themselves when in the US or if not, that another person will support them while they are in the country. A visitor may come to America on business and would apply for a B-1 visa whereas a person only applying for touring or visiting would apply for a B-2 visa.
It is also possible to receive visas for medical reasons. The visitor must show a diagnosis from their doctor, along with an explanation of why treatment in the US is necessary. They will also need a letter from a doctor or hospital in the US explaining the cost of treatment and the length of stay that will be required.
Applying for and receiving visas does not guarantee entry to the US since US Customs & Border Protection and the Department of Homeland Security may deny entry at the airport where the visitor arrives if there is reason to not allow the person into the country. One reason why entry could be denied is if a person is on a list of individuals not allowed in this country.
