International Visitors to the United States
The type of visa you must obtain is defined by U.S. immigration law, and relates to the purpose of your travel. There are two main categories of U.S. visas:
- Nonimmigrant visas – For travel to the United States on a temporary basis. Learn more
- Immigrant visas – For travel to live permanently in the United States. Learn more.
Passport Alert!
Applicants for U.S. Visas Do Not Need to Leave Passport with Consular Officer.
Consular Officers do not need to retain applicants’ passports. See the APS site and print the letter and bring it to your visa interview.
U.S. Government Sites
- About Visas
- U.S. Embassies
- Visitor Visa Information from the U.S. Department of State
- Visa FAQs
- Visa Delays & Help
- Office of Biometric Identity Management
- Visa Waiver Program
- Electronic System for Travel Authorization
Set up Your Visa Interview
If you are not eligible to travel under the Visa Waiver Program, you may be required to appear at a U.S. embassy or consulate for an in-person interview prior to visa approval. There may be long waits to schedule an interview, so start the application process as early as possible.
For Non-U.S. Citizens/Residents
Disclaimer: Please note that this content is for general information purposes only. While every effort is made to ensure that the information provided is accurate and up-to-date, regulations may change. The only authoritative sources on U.S. visas are U.S. government websites.
Attention: APS cannot intervene with U.S. Embassies or consulates abroad, or with the U.S. State Department on behalf of any member or APS meeting attendee.
Visa Letter Invitation Request
Upon request a personalized letter of invitation will be sent to you. Please contact Gabe Xu (gabe.xu@uah.edu).
