U.S. Visa Requirements

A citizen of a foreign country wishing to enter the US must first obtain either a nonimmigrant visa for temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. All travelers to America have to meet with the tough visa requirements before entering the United States.

Qualifying for a Visa:

Applicants for visitor visas must overcome the presumption in law that he/she is an intending immigrant by demonstrating that:
  • The purpose of their trip is to enter the U.S. for business, pleasure, or medical treatment
  • That they plan to remain for a limited period
  • Evidence of funds to cover expenses in the United States
  • Evidence of compelling social and economic ties abroad
  • That they have a residence outside the U.S. as well as other binding ties which will insure their return abroad at the end of the visit.


Who requires a visa?

Required by all except, the following citizens of:

(a) countries under the Visa Waiver Program
(b) Bermuda, Canada and Mexico, holding valid passports, additionally for Mexico a US Border Crossing Card.


Everyone requires a valid Passport, although the validity varies.