Types of U.S. Visas: Which Visa is Right for You?

By Asim Kilinc, Immigration Attorney at CK Law Firm

Selecting the right visa type is crucial for individuals planning to travel to the United States. The visa type depends on the purpose and duration of your visit. Here are the most common types of U.S. visas:

Tourist Visas (B1/B2)

• B1 Visa: Used for business travel. It is suitable for business meetings, conferences, or business negotiations. However, this visa does not permit you to work in the U.S.
  
• B2 Visa: Used for tourism, family or friend visits, medical treatment, or social events. With this visa, you cannot work or study in the U.S.

Work Visas (H1B, L1, O1)

• H1B Visa: A temporary work visa for specialized jobs, where the applicant has a specific job offer and is sponsored by a U.S. employer. The H1B visa allows you to stay in the U.S. for up to 3 years, with possible extensions under certain conditions.
  
• L1 Visa: Issued for intra-company transfers between branches of the same company in different countries. L1A is for executives and managers, while L1B is for positions requiring specialized knowledge.
  
• O1 Visa: Given to individuals with extraordinary abilities in the fields of science, arts, education, business, or athletics.

Student Visas (F1, M1)

• F1 Visa: Granted to students who wish to pursue full-time academic studies at accredited schools, colleges, or universities in the U.S. F1 visa holders may work on campus under specific conditions.
  
• M1 Visa: Applies to students wishing to enroll in vocational or technical training programs. M1 visa holders can stay in the U.S. for the duration of their academic program.

Exchange Program Visas (J1)

• J1 Visa: Issued to individuals participating in cultural exchange programs, such as students, teachers, interns, or researchers. J1 visa holders typically must return to their home country after completing their program.

Immigrant Visas (EB-5, DV)

• EB-5 Visa: A type of immigrant visa for foreign investors who wish to obtain a Green Card by investing in the U.S. and creating jobs under certain conditions.
  
• DV (Green Card) Lottery Visa: A visa granted through the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery held annually by the U.S. government, allowing selected individuals to obtain a Green Card and live and work in the U.S. indefinitely.
  
• EB-2 National Waiver Visa: Available for those who have demonstrated significant achievements in their field and meet at least 3 of the 10 criteria set by USCIS.
  
• EB-1A Visa: Issued to individuals who have achieved a high level of success in the fields of science, arts, education, business, or athletics.

Fiancé and Family Visas (K1, K3)

• K1 Visa: Issued to foreign nationals engaged to a U.S. citizen. After entering the U.S. with a K1 visa, the couple must marry within 90 days.
  
• K3 Visa: Granted to spouses of U.S. citizens who wish to settle in the U.S. This visa allows the spouse to live in the U.S. while their Green Card application is being processed.

Choosing the right visa type is crucial for ensuring that your plans proceed smoothly. Each visa type has specific requirements and conditions. At CK Law Firm, we are happy to guide you through your U.S. visa application process. Feel free to reach out via cklawfirm.org, info@cklawfirm.org, or contact me directly on LinkedIn.

Who is Attorney Asım Kılınç?

Attorney Asım Kılınç is the co-founder of CK Law Firm and is recognized for his expertise in immigration law and U.S. asylum applications. Kılınç completed his Master’s degree at Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law and is a member of the Missouri Bar Association, with a focus on U.S. immigration law.

Attorney Kılınç’s extensive knowledge and experience in immigration law have significantly contributed to CK Law Firm’s success in this field. He has actively participated in the preparation of over 1,000 cases, demonstrating his expertise in this area. By providing comprehensive and professional legal support to his clients, he helps them adapt to their new lives in the U.S.

Attorney Kılınç is also well-versed in U.S. asylum applications. He meticulously guides his clients through the process and ensures they receive the best legal advice. He provides top-quality service to clients in matters of citizenship, Green Card, work permits, and other immigration processes, supporting them from start to finish on their journey to U.S. citizenship.

Attorney Asım Kılınç, who solidifies CK Law Firm’s leadership in immigration law and U.S. asylum applications, offers reliable and effective legal consultancy services to clients, assisting them in building a new life in the U.S.