Which Documents You Need to Obtain a U.S. Visa?

Applying for a U.S. visa is a meticulous process that requires a variety of documents that ensure your eligibility and compliance with current immigration laws.

Whether you are seeking a tourist visa, student visa, work visa, or any other type of U.S. visa, you must have the correct documentation.

This article (written in the form of a guide, somewhat), outlines the essential documents you need to obtain a visa, despite its type.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL VISA APPLICANTS

Regardless of the type of visa you are applying for, certain documents are universally required:

1. Passport: A valid passport is essential for all visa applicants. It must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the United States.
2. Visa Application Form (DS-160): The DS-160 form is an online application required for non-immigrant visas. After completing the form, you will receive a confirmation page with a barcode, which you must print and bring to your visa interview.
3. Photo: A recent photograph that meets the U.S. visa photo requirements must be uploaded during the DS-160 application process and brought to the visa interview.
4. Visa Fee Receipt: Proof of payment for the non-refundable visa application fee.

TOURIST VISA (B-1/B-2)

For those seeking to visit the United States for tourism, business, or medical treatment, the following additional documents are required:

1. Proof of Ties to Home Country: Documents demonstrating your intention to return to your home country after your U.S. visit, such as employment records, property ownership, or family ties.
2. Itinerary: Detailed travel plans, including flight bookings, accommodation reservations, and a travel itinerary.
3. Financial Evidence: Bank statements, pay stubs, or other financial documents proving you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in the U.S.

STUDENT VISA (F-1/M-1)

Students wishing to study in the United States must provide the following:

1. Form I-20: Issued by the educational institution, this form confirms your admission to a U.S. school and provides details about your study program and financial support.
2. SEVIS Fee Receipt: Proof of payment for the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee.
3. Academic Records: Transcripts, diplomas, and standardized test scores (such as TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, GRE, etc.) that support your academic qualifications.
4. Proof of Financial Support: Documentation showing how you will fund your education and living expenses in the U.S., such as bank statements, scholarship awards, or affidavits of support.

WORK VISA (H-1B, L-1, etc.)

Applicants for employment-based visas need the following:

1. Form I-129: Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, filed by your prospective U.S. employer.
2. Labor Certification: If required, a labor certification from the Department of Labor, proving that hiring you will not negatively impact U.S. workers.
3. Employment Offer Letter: A letter from your employer detailing your job title, duties, salary, and terms of employment.
4. Professional Credentials: Degrees, diplomas, licenses, or certificates relevant to your field of work, along with a resume or CV.

FAMILY-SPONSORED VISA

For those immigrating to the U.S. through a family sponsorship, the following documents are necessary:

1. Form I-130: Petition for Alien Relative, filed by your sponsoring family member in the U.S.
2. Proof of Relationship: Birth certificates, marriage certificates, or adoption papers that establish your relationship to the sponsoring family member.
3. Affidavit of Support (Form I-864): A document from your sponsor demonstrating their ability to financially support you.
4. Supporting Evidence: Additional evidence such as correspondence, photographs, and other documents proving the genuineness of the relationship.

A FINAL TIP FOR THOSE APPLYING FOR A VISA

Obtaining a U.S. visa requires careful preparation and submission of various documents that demonstrate your eligibility and intent.

Each visa category has specific requirements, so it is essential to thoroughly research and prepare the necessary documentation well in advance of your application.

Also, remember that every document required for the visa you are applying must be properly translated to be presented.

And, on top of that, most translations of documents submitted must come with a certification!

We at Lenguae can help you with the translation of your immigration documents.

Contact us if you have any questions by clicking here!