Menu
Foreign government officials or employees of foreign government officials are classified as non-immigrants in the A category, which has subcategories for different types of employees and officials.
Family members of an A-1, A-2, or A-3 foreign national are included in the same A subcategory as the principal foreign national.
A-1 and A-2 visa holders are admitted to the United States for an indefinite period of stay, dependent on their continued recognition by the State Department as qualified A non-immigrants. A-3 visa holders are admitted to the United States for a period of no more than three years, and can receive extensions of stay in two-year increments.
Foreign visitors for business and pleasure are classified as non-immigrants in the B category. The applicant must:
The B category is comprised of two subcategories: B-1 business visitors and B-2 visitors for pleasure. B-1 business visitors may engage in commercial transactions but may not receive a salary or fee from a U.S. source. B-2 visitors may travel to the United States as tourists, to visit friends and relatives, for medical treatment, to take part in conferences or conventions, or as amateur athletes, musicians, or artists who will receive no compensation.
Foreign nationals seeking to enter the United States to engage in a full course of academic study may be admitted in the F-1 category. Students may also enter the United States to study with a J visa if the educational institution has an exchange visitor program approved by the U.S. Information Agency. Vocational students must enter the United States in the M non-immigrant category.
In order to qualify for F student status, the applicant must:
The first step in applying for an F-1 visa is to secure admission to a qualifying school and to receive from the school Form I-20A-B, Certificate of Eligibility. Students in F-1 status are eligible for employment only in limited circumstances, which should be explored either with an international student advisor at the educational institution or with an immigration attorney. Accompanying family members are accorded F-2 status and are ineligible for employment in the United States.
The G category is available to representatives and employees of international organizations covered by the International Organizations Immunity Act, as well as the attendants and household help of the representatives and employees.
The purpose of your intended travel to the U.S. must be pursuant to official duties.
The Law Offices of Sheila Starkey Hahn, PC welcomes you to contact us for information about how we can assist you with a U.S. visa.
Attorney Advertising
Practice limited to Immigration and Nationality Law
© 2021 Law Offices of Sheila Starkey Hahn, PC
View Our Disclaimer | Privacy Policy
Law Firm Website Design by The Modern Firm