United States Visas
Capital Washington, D.C. · Currency USD · U.S. Department of State / USCIS
The United States runs one of the world’s most selective visa systems. Most visitors need a visa stamped in a passport after a consular interview, unless they qualify for the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA). Nonimmigrant visas cover short stays (tourism, study, work); immigrant visas / green cards lead to permanent residence.
ESTA visa waiver available for 40+ countries (90-day tourism/business).United States visas at a glance
| Visa type | Fee | Processing | Stay / validity | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist / Visit B-2 Visitor (Tourism) Visa |
USD 185 | Interview wait varies (days to months); processing 3–5 business days after approval | Usually up to 6 months per entry (set by CBP) | View → |
| Student F-1 Student Visa |
USD 185 | Varies by consulate; apply early | Length of academic program + grace period | View → |
| Work / Skilled H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa |
USD 205 (visa) + employer petition fees | Lottery in March; petitions from April; premium processing 15 days | Up to 3 years, extendable to 6 | View → |
| PR / Immigration Green Card (Permanent Residence) |
From USD 1,440 (varies by category) | Months to years depending on category and country of birth | 10-year card, renewable; permanent status | View → |
Visa types for United States
B-2 Visitor (Tourism) Visa
Short-term tourism, visiting family or medical treatment. ESTA covers Visa Waiver nationals for up to 90 days without a visa.
- Processing: Interview wait varies (days to months); processing 3–5 business days after approval
- Stay: Usually up to 6 months per entry (set by CBP)
- Validity: Often up to 10 years, multiple entry (nationality-dependent)
F-1 Student Visa
For full-time academic study at a SEVP-approved U.S. school, with optional post-study work (OPT).
- Processing: Varies by consulate; apply early
- Stay: Length of academic program + grace period
- Validity: Duration of study (D/S)
H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa
Employer-sponsored work visa for specialty roles requiring a bachelor’s degree or higher. Subject to an annual lottery cap.
- Processing: Lottery in March; petitions from April; premium processing 15 days
- Validity: Up to 3 years, extendable to 6
Green Card (Permanent Residence)
Permanent residence via employment, family sponsorship, the Diversity Visa lottery or investment (EB-5).
- Processing: Months to years depending on category and country of birth
- Validity: 10-year card, renewable; permanent status
Embassies, consulates & visa centres
U.S. Embassy New Delhi
New Delhi, India
Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021, India
Visa interviews are booked via ustraveldocs.com/in.
U.S. Embassy London
London, United Kingdom
33 Nine Elms Lane, London SW11 7US, United Kingdom
United States visa FAQs
What visa types does United States offer?＋
VisaViews covers 4 United States visa types: Tourist / Visit, Student, Work / Skilled, PR / Immigration. Each has its own eligibility criteria, fees and processing times.
Does United States have an eVisa or visa-free entry?＋
ESTA visa waiver available for 40+ countries (90-day tourism/business).
How much is a United States tourist visa?＋
The B-2 Visitor (Tourism) Visa costs USD 185. Fees are indicative and can change — always confirm on the official source.
How long does a United States visa take to process?＋
Processing time varies by visa type; the B-2 Visitor (Tourism) Visa typically takes Interview wait varies (days to months); processing 3–5 business days after approval.
Who handles United States visas and immigration?＋
United States visas and immigration are administered by U.S. Department of State / USCIS. The official portal is https://travel.state.gov.