Visa FAQs

What is a visitor visa?

This is a visa that allows temporary access to the U.S. for foreigners. It is usually used by tourists. For more information see What is a visitor visa.

I’ve heard that people from some countries can go to the U.S. without a visa - is this true?

Yes. The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) operates between the U.S. and certain countries. See Do I need a visitor visa for more details.

What’s the difference between a visitor visa and a tourist visa?

Nothing - some people call visitor visas tourist visas.

How long does it take to get a visitor visa?

Given the increase in global security it can take longer nowadays to get a visitor visa. Leave plenty of time (i.e. a few weeks) to apply in the first place - if your application is referred to the U.S. or you need to be re-interviewed then you could add an extra month or more.

Do I have to pay to get a visa?

Yes. You will have to pay a visitor application processing fee. You may also have to pay a visa issuance fee depending on the country where you live. To find out more see Visa Fees.

Will I have to have an interview to get a visa?

Visa application procedures can vary from country to country but all will interview you before giving out a visa.

Will I get approval on the spot?

Sometimes you will be told if your application has been accepted or denied on the spot. Other times you may have to wait to be notified by letter.

Does getting a visa guarantee that I can visit the U.S.?

No. It gets you ‘port-of-entry’ access (i.e. to an airport) and then you’ll need to be passed by immigration to carry on with your journey.

I was turned down for a visa. Can I apply again?

Yes. See Visa refusal and reapplication for further details.

Do I need to pay an extra application processing fee every time I make a visa application?

Yes. This fee is non-refundable and applies to a single application. So, if you re-apply then you will be charged again.

What are ties?

When an embassy/consulate official looks at your application for a visitor visa they basically want to know that you will return home within the visa/extension limits. The easiest way to work this out is to assess the ties you have at home. So, if you own your home, have a job and have family at home then you will be more likely to come back as you have specific ties to the country.

Should I use a visa company to get my visa?

This is up to you - bear in mind, however, that a visa company may charge you for the service and that they cannot guarantee to get you a visa without an interview.

I haven’t booked a trip but I want to go to the U.S. next year at some point. Can I apply in advance?

Yes.

Do I need a single entry or multiple entry visa?

It depends on your plans. Single entry visas are valid for one trip. Multiple entry visas cover more trips in a specified period of time.

I have a 10 year visa. Does this mean I can live in the U.S. for all that time?

No. The visa is valid for 10 years but your stay when you visit the country will usually be set at 6 months by the immigration officials when you enter the U.S.

I live in the U.S. - can I sponsor my mother to get a visitor visa?

Yes. You can help her through the application process to get a visa or she can apply on her own behalf. See Visitor Visa Sponsorship for more details of the process.