What is a Temporary Visa?
Temporary visas, or nonimmigrant visas, allow foreign nationals to enter the United States for a limited period for specific purposes such as tourism, business, study, or temporary work. Each visa category is tailored to the visitor's primary activity during their stay.
What are Types of Temporary Visas?
Tourism & Business Visas (B-1/B-2):
- Purpose: For business dealings, tourism activities, or a combination of both.
- Documentation: Valid passport, DS-160 confirmation, application fee receipt, and a recent photo. Additional proof may be required to support the visit's purpose and ensure compliance with visa conditions.
Temporary Worker Visas:
- Categories: Includes H-1B for specialty occupations, H-2A for agricultural workers, H-2B for non-agricultural workers, L visas for intracompany transferees, and others.
- Documentation: Valid passport, DS-160 confirmation, petition receipt number, and, for L visa applicants, Form I-129S. Proof of intent to return home may be required for most categories.
Exchange Visitor Visas (J)
- Participants: Au pairs, interns, scholars, teachers, and students among others.
- Documentation: Passport, DS-160 confirmation, fee receipt, DS-2019 form for exchange visitor status, and DS-7002 for training/internship placement.
Student Visas (F and M):
- F Visa: For academic studies including universities, high schools, private elementary schools, seminaries, conservatories, and other academic institutions.
- M Visa: For non-academic or vocational studies.
- Documentation: Passport, DS-160 confirmation, fee receipt, and Form I-20. Evidence of financial support, academic preparation, and intent to depart the U.S. post-study may be required.
Other Types of Nonimmigrant Visas: Below is the list of other types of nonimmigrant (temporary) visas.
- A Visa: For Diplomat or foreign government official
- BCC Visa: For Border Crossing Card - Mexico
- C Visa: For Transiting the United States
- D Visa: For Crewmember
- E Visa: For Treaty trader/treaty investor
- E-3 Visa: For Australian professional specialty
- CW-1 Visa: For CNMI-only transitional worker
- G1-G5, NATO Visa: For Employee of a designated international organization or NATO
- A-2, NATO1-6 Visa: For Foreign military personnel stationed in the United States
- I Visa: For Media, journalist
- TN/TD Visa: For NAFTA professional worker - Mexico, Canada
- R Visa: For Religious worker
- T Visa: For Victim of Human Trafficking
- U Visa: For Victim of Criminal Activity
- V Visa: For Spouse and Children of a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR)
Application Process for Temporary Visas
- Step 1: Complete the online DS-160 form and print the confirmation page.
- Step 2: Pay the visa application fee and schedule an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
- Step 3: Attend the visa interview with all required documentation and additional proofs if necessary.
Duration and Extension of Temporary Visas
- Temporary visas are granted for periods ranging from a few weeks to several years, depending on the visa type.
- Extensions may be possible through Form I-539 under specific conditions unless restricted by visa type (e.g., Visa Waiver Program participants).
Difference Between Temporary and Permanent Visas
- Temporary Visas: Issued for specific purposes with a set expiration date.
- Permanent Visas: Allow for permanent residency in the United States.
How Najib Hakimi PLLC Can Assist You
Najib Hakimi Law PLLC specializes in helping clients understand their best visa options and successfully navigating the application process. Navigating the U.S. temporary visa application can be complex. Contact us for tailored assistance and ensure your visa application stands the best chance of approval. Contact Najib Hakimi Law PLLC today by filling out the online form or calling us at (+1)360-390-3936 to schedule a consultation.
