Different Types of US Tourist Visas Explained

Types of US Tourist Visas

When planning for a trip to United States it is important to know the visa regimes that are expected to be met before travelling. There are many different types of visas that a traveler can obtain from the US and it helps to know what type you are eligible for so that you know where to start in the application process. Regardless of whether you are going for a holiday, for a business trip or to meet family members, the first thing to establish is which category of visa will best suit your trip.

When it comes to the visa system in USA, it might appear complex, but when you start categorizing the visa, then you are in a position to find the right visa for you. Below, we’ll categorize the most used types of US visa to help you understand which choice is the best for you. With this information, you’ll be able to make a good decision and guarantee that your application process will be successful.

Types of Tourist Visa to US

1. B-2 Tourist Visa

The most commonly used visa by visitors traveling to the United States for tourism, recreation, medical treatment or to visit relatives or friends is the B-2 Tourist Visa.

Purpose: For business, holiday, medical purpose, visit friends/relatives.
Duration: Usually grants stays for up to 6 months with the option of an extension.
Requirements: You will have to provide evidence that you will be going back to your home country on the visit you are making.
Ideal For: attractions, visiting, discovering landmarks in the United States or simply having a leisure time.

2. B-1 Business Visa

The B-1 business visa is for people visiting the US for business purposes, including attending meetings, conferences or negotiating contracts.

Purpose: For meeting, conference, or other business purposes.
Duration: Occupancy is usually one to six months, and little leeway is allowed on extension.
Requirements: Candidates must prove that they will not be employed full time in the United States.
Ideal For: Employees participating in business related functions or meetings.

3. ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization)

ESTA is an expedited, automated travel authorization for Visa Waiver Program (VWP) travellers to enter the United States.

Purpose: For travel, business or transit purposes of entering the United States.
Duration: Permits a stay of up to 90 days without a conventional visa.
Requirements: VWP countries’ citizens only can access it.
Ideal For: Temporary or in transit purposes for example business or holiday purposes.

4. Student Visa (F-1)

The F-1 Student Visa is for those who would like to study in the United States, pursuing a full course.

Purpose: For academic study at an accredited institution in the United States of America only.
Duration: Dispensed depending on the period of the course of study plus extra time for practical experience.
Requirements: Applicants have to have an acceptance letter from a school in the US and proof of financial sponsorship.
Ideal For: Students who want to study at an educational institution in the United States of America.

What is Tier 1 2 3 4 5 visa in US

The visa system categorizes visa types into five tiers, each serving different purposes based on your needs:

Tier 1: Employment based immigration: priority workers include those who have an extraordinary ability in science, business, or education (O-1 visa).
Tier 2: For employees with certain skills and qualifications for instance H1B visa workers.
Tier 3: Temporary employee of certain sectors such as the agricultural sector – H-2A worker.
Tier 4: Usually for students and their dependents (for instance F-1 visa).
Tier 5: For those who attend school on an exchange program or work during seasonal periods (for example, J-1 visa). The tiers are distinct and your visa depends on the reasons for your visit.

Which US tourism visa is easiest to get

In as much as there is no one answer to the question, which visa is easiest to get? This is because, it depends with the individual’s qualification or the travel purpose.

For leisure travel: The B-2 Tourist Visa is normally the simplest to acquire for anyone planning to visit America for tourism.
For VWP countries: ESTA is the easiest and most convenient way to get a visa, as it does not involve an interview in person and is completed on the Internet.

How many visa types are there in the US

The US provides many types of visas, which are aimed to fit various purposes.

Non-immigrant visas: For the travelers who plan to stay for a short period of time (leisure, business, education, employment etc.).
Immigrant visas: For those who intend to reside in the United States in a permanent basis.
Currently, there are over three hundred types of visa depending on the requirements including working visas and visas for family reunion.

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