In an era characterized by global mobility, the pursuit of economic opportunities, and cultural exchange, immigration legalities play a crucial role in ensuring that individuals can navigate borders while adhering to the established legal frameworks. At Cohen & Patel, we pride ourselves on guiding our clients through the complexities of nonimmigrant visas and facilitating their short-term stays in the United States. Continue reading and contact a dedicated nonimmigrant visa lawyer from our firm to learn more about how we can assist you.
Types of Nonimmigrant Visas
There are different nonimmigrant visa categories available for various purposes. Some of the most common categories are:
- B-1/B-2 Visas: These visas can help you if you visit the United States for business or tourism. B-1 visa is for those who want to engage in short-term business activities, while B-2 is for those who wish to visit for recreation or medical treatment.
- F-1 Visas: This visa is for international students who want to study at U.S. academic institutions.
- H-1B Visas: These visas are for professionals in specialty occupations who want to work in the United States for a specific duration.
- J-1 Visas: This visa category is for exchange visitors who want to participate in programs that promote cultural exchange.
- L-1 visas are for intra-company transferees who have worked abroad for one year in the past three years and want to come to the U.S. to work for the same company.
- U Visas: This visa category is reserved for victims of certain crimes who want to cooperate with law enforcement and provides them with legal status.
There are many more nonimmigrant visa categories available, and each visa type has its own set of criteria and duration of stay.
How Do I Obtain a Nonimmigrant Visa?
Navigating the process of obtaining a nonimmigrant visa involves several steps. They are as follows:
- Determine Your Eligibility: Before initiating the application process, it’s essential to identify the visa category that aligns with your purpose of visit.
- Complete Form DS-160: This Online non-immigrant visa Application is a mandatory step for most visa categories.
- Schedule Your Interview: You must schedule an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Sometimes, visa applicants from specific age groups or nationalities may be exempted.
- Prepare Documentation: Applicants must present a valid passport, confirmation of DS-160 submission, application fee payment receipt, and photo (if required). Depending on the visa type, additional documentation may be necessary.
- Attend the Interview: During this, a consular officer will assess your application, ask questions, and determine eligibility.
- Wait for Visa Processing: Some applications may require additional administrative processing, while others may be immediately adjudicated.
- Pay the Visa Issuance Fee: If your visa is approved, there might be an additional issuance fee, depending on your nationality.
Maintaining Valid Status
It’s crucial to understand that holding a nonimmigrant visa does not guarantee entry into the U.S. Immigration officers at the port of entry have the authority to admit or deny entry. Once accepted, you should be sure to do the following:
- Adhere to Visa Conditions: Engaging in activities outside the stipulations of your visa can result in severe consequences.
- Monitor Duration: Always be aware of your visa expiry date and the duration of your authorized stay.
- Extensions and Adjustments: If you wish to extend your stay or adjust your status, consult with an immigration attorney in advance.
Nonimmigrant Visa Lawyer | Serving All 50 States
Whether you’re a student looking to attend a university in the United States or someone looking to work here in the U.S. temporarily, you need a competent Montgomery County immigration lawyer in your corner who can effectively represent your case. Fortunately, you are in the right place. Contact Cohen & Patel today for comprehensive legal support and begin your U.S. journey with confidence. Our firm proudly represents clients facing immigration matters throughout Pennsylvania, including in East Norriton, Norristown, Allentown, Lancaster, Bensalem, Easton, Levittown, Bethlehem, Erie, Mechanicsburg, Chester, Harrisburg, and more.
