The United States (US) government provides a diverse array of visas catering to individuals aspiring to immigrate, work, or study within its borders.
A US visa represents official permission granted by the US government, allowing non-citizens to enter the country for specified purposes such as employment, education or tourism. The visa application process entails navigating through intricate procedures, including completing appropriate forms, furnishing required documents and submitting the requisite fees.
In certain instances, applicants may be mandated to attend interviews at US embassies or consulates.
Essential application criteria
Eligibility for a US visa hinges upon meeting specific prerequisites. Prospective applicants must possess valid passports along with documentation substantiating the purpose of their visit, such as employment contracts or academic transcripts.
Depending on the visa category pursued, additional paperwork might be necessitated.
Applicants must demonstrate financial solvency and furnish any pertinent medical or background information stipulated by the American diplomatic mission. A concrete intent to return to their home country post the authorised stay is imperative for those applying for temporary or nonimmigrant visas.
Adherence to the guideline specifying that all documents must be in English or translated into English is mandatory. Additionally, original documents must be produced along with photocopies during the visa interview.
Varieties of US visas
The US offers a varieties of visas: immigrant and non-immigrant.
Immigrant visas are tailored for individuals seeking permanent residency in the US, whereas non-immigrant visas cater to those with temporary intents.
a. Non-immigrant visa
Examples of non-immigrant visas includes:
(i) Work visa
Permitting legal employment in the US, these visas mandate a concrete job offer within the country. Employment authorisation is contingent upon the sponsoring company, barring engagement with other employers during the visa tenure.
Principal visas in this category comprise:
1. C-1/D Visa (Combined Transit and Crewman): Pertaining to crew members of international flights or vessels.
2. E-1 Visa (Treaty Trader): Reserved for managers/executives/specialists/supervisors facilitating trade with the US.
3. E-2 Visa (Treaty Investor): Catering to managers/executives/specialists/supervisors overseeing investments in the US.
4. H-1B Visa (Specialty Occupation Worker): Tailored for highly skilled professionals or individuals possessing academic degrees.
5. I Visa (Foreign News Media): Intended for journalists and media personnel.
6. L-1 Visa (Intracompany Transferee): Facilitating internal transfers of employees irrespective of nationality.
7. L-1 Blanket Visa/Registration: Streamlined application process for internal employee transfers.
8. O-1 Visa (Extraordinary Ability): Designed for individuals showcasing extraordinary skills and abilities.
9. TN Visa: Extended to skilled workers from Canada and Mexico.
(ii) US visitor visa (Business visa USA and US tourist visa)
While tourists often qualify for the Visa Waiver Programme (ESTA), Nigerian citizens necessitate specific visas for visits, namely:
1. B-1 Visa (Business Visitor): Intended for business travelers with stays of up to 180 days.
2. B-1 Visa (Tourist): Catering to tourists seeking stays of up to 180 days.
(iii) Internship and student visas
Individuals engaging in academic pursuits, exchange programmes, or internships necessitate one of the following visas:
1. F-1 Visa (Student): Geared towards enrollment in American universities or colleges.
2. J-1 Visa (Exchange): Facilitating participation in exchange programmes such as internships or training in the US.
b. Immigrant visa for the US (Green Card)
Immigrant visas confer permanent residency in the US, entitling holders to engage in gainful employment. These encompass Employment-based immigration, Family-based immigration, and the Diversity Visa Programme.
Employment-based immigration visas encompass:
– EB-1 (Priority Workers)
– EB-2 (Advanced Degree/Exceptional Ability)
– EB-3 (Skilled Workers, Professionals, and Other Workers)
– EB-4 (Special Immigrants, including religious workers)
– EB-5 (Immigration Investor Programme)
Family-based visas extend to spouses and relatives of US citizens or permanent residents. The Diversity Visa programme entails participation in the annual Green Card Lottery, accessible to citizens of eligible nations, enabling select individuals to secure permanent resident status.
