Comparing US Visa Types: Finding the Right Fit for Your Travel Needs
The US is a popular destination for foreigners globally, and more than 1.7 million people visited this country in 2023 for varied purposes. However, if you plan to visit the US soon, you must apply for a valid US visa to enter the country for your desired travel purpose.
As there are several types of US visas available, you must choose the right visa type according to your travel purpose. In this blog, we will explore the key differences between US visa types and help you select the right one according to your travel purpose.
What are the Different Types of US Visas?
The primary US visa types can be categorised into non-immigrant and immigrant visas. Here is a detailed explanation of both these visa types:
1.Immigrant Visa
The US visa officials grant immigrant visas if you intend to work and live in the United States permanently. In certain instances, your relatives or employers can sponsor your US visa application through an application to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). However, if you are an applicant with special abilities, investors, and other special immigrants, you can submit your own petitions.
Once you submit the visa application, it is sent to the US Embassy or Consulate in your home country for verification and document processing. After successful verification, the visa official will issue you an immigrant visa.
2.Non-Immigrant Visa
You can obtain a non-immigrant visa if you wish to temporarily visit the USA for tourism, medical treatment, business, or other temporary work purposes. In addition, you can submit your application to the United States Consulate or Embassy in your home country for a US tourist visa or US business non-immigrant visa directly.
Moreover, if you plan to work or study in the US, you may need specific documentation and authorisation before applying for this type of visa.
Key Differences Between Immigrant Visas and Non-immigrant Visas
The following table illustrates the difference between the US immigrant and non-immigrant visas:
| Points of Difference | Immigrant Visa | Non-Immigrant Visa |
| Application Purpose | You can apply for a US immigrant visa if you want to settle in the country permanently. | You can apply for a US non-immigrant visa if you plan to travel to the US for tourism, business, medical treatment and other varied purposes. |
| Status of Residence | You will get resident status in the US and can stay in the country permanently. | You cannot stay in the US as a permanent resident and must leave the country after a specified period. |
| Rights | Once you have a US immigrant visa, you can enjoy citizen rights, like working, living and studying anywhere in the region. | The US non-immigrant visa does not offer major rights and gives limited privileges after you enter the country. |
| Application Process | You can apply for a US immigrant visa through the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). | You can apply for a US non-immigrant visa through your nearest US Embassy or Consulate. |
| Visa Processing Time | Getting a US immigrant visa can be time-consuming and challenging at times. | Getting a US non-immigrant visa is easier than an immigrant visa. |
Things to Keep in Mind When Applying for a US Immigrant Visa
Here are a few crucial pointers you must keep in mind when applying for a US immigrant visa from India:
- You may qualify for an immigrant visa on the basis of your employment, refugee status, or family relationships.
- You can apply for a US immigrant visa from the 32 different categories available from the US government.
- Obtaining an immigrant visa can be challenging as the government closely scrutinises the application process.
- You must select the right US immigrant visa type according to your travel purpose to prevent any delays or denials.
- You must leave the country for renewal once your US immigrant visa expires.
- Your employer, family member, or spouse can apply for an immigrant visa on your behalf.
- It may require more than 10 years of residency in the United States to obtain a green card after getting an immigrant status.
Things to Keep in Mind When Applying for a US Non-Immigrant Visa
Remember the following pointers while applying for a non-immigrant visa for the US:
- You can apply for a US non-immigrant visa according to your travel purpose from the 20 different types available.
- When you apply for a US non-immigrant visa, you must have a good tie with your home nation, which indicates you are returning to the country.
- You must understand your travel purpose and different types of US non-immigrant visa types to apply for the correct one.
- When you plan to extend your US non-immigrant visa after its expiry, you must showcase a strong reason to the officials for doing so.
- You can change your non-immigrant visa to an immigrant visa by obtaining approval from the USCIS.
Does Travel Insurance Affect US Visa Approval?
No, travel insurance is not a mandatory requirement for applying for a US visa from India. However, having an insurance plan can positively impact the visa officer. The US visa officials may want to ensure you can afford medical coverage during an unforeseen situation. Hence, it is recommended that you buy the best travel insurance for your US trip to secure yourself financially from any emergencies.
For instance, insurance companies like ACKO offer travel insurance for USA. You can buy a comprehensive travel insurance plan at an affordable rate. It has a seamless buying, renewing and claiming process, which you can do through its website or mobile application.
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