Types of Visas

Nonimmigrant Visas

Nonimmigrant visas are for people with permanent residence outside the U.S. but who wish to go to the U.S. on a temporary basis ր for tourism, medical treatment, business, temporary work, or study.

U.S. law requires that people who apply for nonimmigrant visas provide evidence that they donҀt intend to immigrate to the United States. ItҀs up to consular officers at U.S. embassies and consulates to determine eligibility on an individual basis on the merits of each case.

Providing requested documents does not guarantee that you will receive a visa. There is no entitlement to a visa.

And, because each personҀs personal situation is different, people applying for the same visa may be asked different questions and be required to submit different documents. Under U.S. law, the authority to issue or refuse visas is vested solely in consular offices abroad. Consular officers have the authority to decide whether the evidence submitted in support of an application is sufficient to establish an applicant's eligibility for a visa. Consular officers may request additional information or documentation depending on their assessment of each personҀs situation.

Immigrant Visas

Several categories of people are eligible for immigrant status. Certain applicants can apply on their own behalf. All others must have a relative or potential employer apply for them.

source: http://www.uscis.gov