Introduction To Non-Immmigrant Visas

Go to FAQ

Non-immigrant visas are issued to persons wishing to travel to the United States temporarily who are not eligible for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).

Who can use the Visa Waiver Program?

Citizens of certain countries, including Japan, who are traveling to the U.S. for 90 days or less for business or tourism may not need a visa. For information on persons eligible to travel visa free to the United States, see Visa Waiver Program page.

Who needs a Visa?

Anyone not eligible to enter the United States on the Visa Waiver Program will be required to get a visa.

Note: Travelers born in the United States and those who hold dual citizenship with the United States must enter and depart the United States on U.S. passports. A national of the United States shall not be issued a visa or other documentation as an alien for entry into the United States (9FAM40.2). For how to apply for a U.S. passport, please see U.S. Citizen Services page.

How do I apply for a non-immigrant Visa?

Please use the three step non-immigrant visa application appointment system.

For applicants who do not require an in-person interview, see Apply by Mail page.

NOTE: No visa or other documentation shall be issued to an alien if it appears to the consular officer, from statements in the application, or in the papers submitted therewith, that such alien is ineligible to receive a visa.

Visa Issuance:

No assurance regarding the issuance of non-immigrant visas can be given in advance. Final travel plans or the purchase of non-refundable air tickets should not be made until you have been approved and have received your visa.

Visa Denials:

For more information on visa denials, see If You Were Denied a Visa page.

Visa Processing Time:

Most applicants receive their visas in about seven to fourteen days from their interviews. However, we do not guarantee that every case will be processed in the seven to fourteen days time frame. Do not/not make final travel plans until you have your passport in your possession. Also, some cases may require further administrative processing, which could result in a delay of up to six weeks or more. For further information on administrative processing, see Administrative Processing Status Check page.

Please note that once an application is submitted processing cannot be expedited.