Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (Temporary) Visas in the U.S.

When considering travel to the United States for a temporary period, whether for tourism, education, or business, nonimmigrant visas are your gateway to a lawful and enjoyable stay. Learn who is eligible for the various types of nonimmigrant visas below.

The intent of your travel dictates the category of nonimmigrant visa you require. Accurate classification of your visa based on the purpose of your visit is crucial, as it permits the designated activity and no other. Nonimmigrant visas are characterized by a unique letter-number code. Popular classifications include B-2 for visitors, E-2 for investors, F-1 for students, and H-1B for skilled workers in specialized fields. A comprehensive list is provided for your guidance.

A-1: Diplomats and family.
A-2: Government officials/employees and family.
A-3: Staff/attendees of A-1/A-2 visa holders.

B-1: Business visitors.
B-2: Tourists or visitors for medical care.

C-1: Transit travelers.

D-1: Temporary crewmembers.

E-1: Treaty traders.
E-2: Treaty investors.
E-3: Australian specialty occupation professionals.

F-1: Academic students.
F-2: Dependents of F-1 students.
F-3: North American commuter students (academic).

G-1: International organization representatives.
G-2: Officials of international organizations and family.
G-3: Non-member representatives and family.
G-4: International organization officers/employees.
G-5: Household staff of G-1 through G-4 visa holders.

H-1B: Specialty occupation workers.
H-2A: Agricultural workers.
H-2B: Nonagricultural workers.
H-3: Trainees.
H-4: Dependents of H visa holders.

I: Media representatives.

J-1: Exchange visitors.
J-2: Dependents of J-1 visa holders.

K-1: Fiancé(e)s of U.S. citizens.
K-2: Children of K-1 visa holders.
K-3: Spouses of U.S. citizens (petition pending).
K-4: Children of K-3 visa holders.

L-1: Intra-company transferees.
L-2: Dependents of L-1 holders.

M-1: Vocational/nonacademic students.
M-2: Dependents of M-1 students.
M-3: North American commuter students (vocational).

N: Special immigrant children.

NATO (1-7): NATO personnel and family.

O-1: Individuals with extraordinary abilities.
O-2: Assistants to O-1 visa holders.
O-3: Dependents of O-1/O-2 holders.

P-1: Internationally recognized athletes/entertainers.
P-2: Exchange entertainers.
P-3: Cultural performance artists.
P-4: Dependents of P-1/P-2/P-3 holders.

Q-1: Cultural exchange visitors.
Q-2: Irish Peace Program participants.
Q-3: Dependents of Q-1 holders.

R-1: Religious workers.
R-2: Dependents of R-1 holders.

S-1: Informants assisting authorities (criminal).
S-2: Informants in danger after assisting authorities.
S-3: Dependents of S-1/S-2 holders.

T: Trafficking victims aiding law enforcement.

U: Victims of serious crime aiding law enforcement.

V: Long-waiting spouses/children of permanent residents, with petitions filed before 12/21/2000.

Your visa specifies permissible activities within the U.S. For instance, a student visa permits educational endeavors but does not allow unauthorized employment. Adherence to these stipulations is compulsory.

Visa durations are diverse and are governed by legal prescriptions, with many eligible for extensions. It's important to note that the visa's expiry date only denotes the time frame within which you can enter the U.S., not the duration of your allowed stay—which is indicated on your I-94 card upon entry.

Should you require assistance or have inquiries about obtaining a nonimmigrant visa, do not hesitate to reach out to Sapochnick Law Firm at 619.819.9204, where our experience is at your service to navigate the complexities of U.S. immigration policy.