What Are the Main Types of U.S. Visas Foreigners Should Consider?
U.S. visas fall into two broad categories:
| Category | Purpose |
| Nonimmigrant | Temporary stay (e.g., tourism, study, work) |
| Immigrant | Permanent residence (green card pathways) |
Generally, a citizen of a foreign country wishing to travel to the United States must first obtain a visa, either a non-immigrant visa for temporary stay or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. The applicant’s purpose of visit determines the right visa.
Which Are the Most Relevant US Visa Types for Foreigners in 2025?
| Visa Category | Main Use | Typical Applicants | Key Requirements | Government Fee (2025) |
| B-1/B-2 | Short-term visits for Tourism, Business meetings or medical treatment |
|
|
$185 (Non-refundable) |
| F-1/M-1 | Study at an accredited US Institution | University, language, and vocational students |
|
$185 |
| J-1 | Exchange Program | Researchers, au pairs, scholars | Sponsor placement, DS-2019 form | $185-$580 |
| H-1B | Employment in Speciality occupations (tech, law, medicine, etc.) | Professionals, STEM, medical | Employer petition, at least a bachelor’s degree, or equivalent experience in the speciality occupation | $205 + employer petition fees |
| L-1 | Intracompany Transfer | Managers, Executives, or specialists |
|
$205 |
| O-1/P | Extraordinary Ability | Athletes, artists, scientists, entertainers, business |
|
$205 |
| E-1/E-2 | Treaty Trader/Investor | Investors, business owners | Investment in US business, treaty nationality | $315 |
| K-1/K-3 | Fiancé/e or Spouse | Fiancé/es & spouses of US citizens | Approved petition, intent to marry/live together | $265 (K-3) |
| EB-1 to EB-5 | Employment-Based Immigrant | Professionals, executives, investors | Labor certification, employer or self-petition | $345+ (form & petition) |
| Family-Based Immigrant | Family Unification | Spouses, children, parents, siblings | Approved petition, affidavit of support and medical | $325 + petition fee |
| Diversity Lottery | Permanent Residency | Eligible nationals based on diversity | Country eligibility, education/work experience | $330 |
| T/U | Victims of Trafficking/Crime | Victims cooperating with US police | Law enforcement certification, proof of eligibility | $185 |
What Are the Basic Requirements to Qualify for a US Visa?
- Demonstrate intent (temporary or permanent stay, depending on visa type).
- Provide required supporting documentation, such as financial support, ties to the home country, and admission or job offer.
- Pay applicable visa processing fees according to category.
- Undergo biometric and interview processes at a US embassy or consulate.
Where to Apply for a U.S. Visa
- Effective November 1, 2025, all immigrant visa applicants will be scheduled for their interview in the consular district designated for their country of residence or may apply in their country of nationality if requested, with limited exceptions.
- Effective September 6, 2025, all non-immigrant visa applicants should schedule their interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their country of residence or nationality.
- Find a S. Embassy or Consulate that processes visas in your country of nationality or residence.
- Nationals of countries where the U.S. government is not conducting routine visa operations must apply at the designated embassy or consulate, unless their residence is elsewhere. Please see the list of Designated Nonimmigrant Visa Locations and Designated Immigrant Visa Locations for visa processing.
What Are the Common Challenges in U.S. Visa Applications?
- Navigating complex forms and documentation
- Proving non-immigrant intent (for temporary visas)
- Meeting financial thresholds
- Handling consular interviews
- Responding to Requests for Evidence (RFEs)
What are the typical US Visa application steps?
The process usually takes the following steps:-
- Petition with USCIS (if required) → approval notice.
- NVC case creation (immigrant) or proceed straight to DS-160 (non-immigrant).
- Pay fees, upload documents, and schedule biometrics/interview.
- Attend medical exam (immigrant/DV) and consular interview.
- Visa issuance (and possible reciprocity fee) → enter U.S.; pay USCIS immigrant fee (where applicable)
How long does it take?
Timelines vary by category, country, security checks, and appointment availability. Petition adjudications (USCIS) and consular backlogs drive most variation.
Always review official category pages and plan for contingencies.
How Can Njaga & Co. Advocates LLP Help You Succeed?
At Njaga & Co. Advocates LLP, we understand the stakes of U.S. immigration. Through our strategic partnerships with top-tier U.S. immigration attorneys, we offer:
✅ Personalized visa strategy based on your goals
✅ Document preparation and review for compliance
✅ Interview coaching and consular support
✅ Investor and business immigration guidance
✅ Diaspora-focused legal solutions for dual planning
Whether you’re a student, entrepreneur, professional, or family sponsor, our team ensures your application is legally sound, strategically positioned, and competitively prepared.
Ready to Begin Your U.S. Immigration Journey?
Let Njaga & Co. Advocates LLP be your trusted legal bridge to the United States. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and unlock your American dream—with confidence, clarity, and world-class legal support.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and does not substitute legal advice on specific circumstances of any individual or organization. While the information is accurate as of the date published, we cannot guarantee it remains accurate at the time you read it or that it will stay current. Before acting on any of this information, please seek professional legal advice tailored to your situation.
