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What is a U.S. Visa?
A citizen of a foreign country who seeks to travel to the United States generally must first obtain a U.S. visa. Visas are placed in the traveler’s passport, a travel document issued by the traveler’s country of citizenship.
Certain international travelers may be eligible to travel to the United States without a visa if they meet the requirements for visa-free travel. The visa section of this website contains information on U.S. visas for foreign citizens seeking to travel to the United States.
(Note: U.S. citizens don’t need a U.S. visa for travel, but when planning travel abroad may need a visa issued by the country they wish to visit. When planning travel abroad, learn about visa requirements by country, on the country information page of the International Travel Section of this website).
More Information about Visas
Find out what visa type is appropriate for you
The type of visa you must obtain is defined by U.S. immigration law, and relates to the purpose of your travel.
Please visit our Visa Wizard to find out what visa type is appropriate for you.
You can also visit our Frequently Asked Questions or find out about the Visa Waiver Program .
Other useful links: Visa Categories | Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate | Glossary
Visa Appointment Wait Time
Check the estimated wait time for a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Note: Please check the individual Embassy or Consulate website to determine if your case is eligible for a waiver of the in-person interview.
Applicants scheduling visa appointments in a location different from their place of residence should check post websites for nonresident wait times.
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Many non-U.S. citizens need a visa to enter the United States to visit, work, and live. Why do you want to travel to the United States? Please try our Visa Wizard.
U.S. Visas News
Oct 28, 2024 Correction of Diversity Visa 2026 Federal Register Notice
Oct 28, 2024 U.S. Visa Guidance for Individuals Affected by Events in Lebanon
Oct 11, 2024 Department of State/AILA Liaison Committee Meeting October 10, 2024
Oct 1, 2024 Update on Diversity Visa (DV) Program 2024
Sep 9, 2024 Annual Limit Reached in the EB-2 Category
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