Non-Immigrant Visas
By Aaron Larson
Law Offices of Aaron Larson
January, 2002
Notice: Immigration laws and regulations can change very quickly, and you should not rely upon this article to reflect the latest changes in the law. Obtaining a non-immigrant visa can be complicated, and visa applications may be denied. While many individuals successfully navigate the application process on their own, it is often beneficial to utilize a qualified immigration attorney.
Nonimmigrant visas are temporary visas, and are issued at U.S. embassies and consulates. In order to qualify for a non-immigrant visa, the applicant must convince the consulate or embassy that he or she will not remain in the United States following the expiration of the authorized stay. Although most categories of nonimmigrant visas are not subject to annual quotas, some categories (including the H-1B visa) are limited.
Possession of a valid visa does not guarantee entrance into the United States. An immigration officer at the U.S. point of entry will make the final determination as to entrance.
Nonimmigrant visas are usually issued relatively quickly after application.
Foreign nationals who wish to enter the United States for reasons other than employment may qualify for a range of non-immigrant visas, including:
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Tourist visas (B-2);
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Business visitor visas (B-1);
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Student visas (F-1, M-1)
Additionally, the visas issued to certain workers such as holders of H-1B visas (for skilled professionals) or L-1 visas (for intracompany transfers), are non-immigrant visas.
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