A visa is a permit to travel and enter the United States.There are different types of visas.If you want to live in the U.S. permanently, you will need an immigration visa.In order to apply for a visa, you need to identify which type of visa you want.You can apply for your visa online or in person.
Step 1: You need to know the type of visa you need.
If you want to visit the United States for a short period of time, you can get a non immigrant visa.Business visas are the most common non immigrant visas.In order to attend a conference, consult with business associates, negotiate a contract, or settle an estate, you need a short-term visa.This visa is not appropriate for someone who wants to work in the U.S.There is a tourist visa.If you want to travel to the U.S. on a vacation, you can get a tourist visa.If you are going to receive medical treatment or participate in amateur musical or sporting events, you can get a tourist visa.
Step 2: You should check if you can apply for the Visa Waiver program.
The Visa Waiver program is open to citizens of over 30 countries.For up to 90 days, they can apply for electronic authorization to travel and stay in the U.S.The State Department has a list of participating countries.
Step 3: Understand visas.
If you want to settle permanently in the United States, you should understand the process.You must be sponsored by a family member or employer to live in the U.S.The immigration paperwork process begins when a family member or employer files a petition.The immigration process ends with the immigration visa.Once your family member or employer has their petition approved, you need to visit your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate.You can apply for the visa in person.The application process for an immigration visa is not described in this article.Obtain green cards for your family will give you more information on the immigration process.Once you move to the United States, you will get a "green card," which is proof of your status as a legal resident.
Step 4: Have your pictures taken.
A photograph of yourself is required by the U.S. State Department.Since there are specific requirements, you should use a visa photo service to have it taken.The picture must have been taken in the last six months to reflect your current appearance.You must face the camera if you want the head to be more than 50% of the picture's total height.The picture needs to have a white or off-white background.Use a neutral facial expression and have both eyes open.If you wear religious clothing daily, take a picture of it.Don't wear work uniforms.Unless you have a religious purpose, don't wear a hat.Even if you cover it for religious reasons, your face must be visible.Don't wear glasses with glare on them.Don't wear glasses with tint.
Step 5: Required documents need to be gathered.
You need to provide certain information in order to apply for a visa.These documents should be gathered before the event.If you have made travel arrangements for your last five trips to the United States, you will need a passport travel itinerary.
Step 6: You can visit the website.
You can apply for a non immigrant visa online.Click on "DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application."
Step 7: You can choose your location.
The State Department wants to know what city you are applying from.From the box, choose your city.Australia, Perth are listed in a country, city format.
Step 8: You have to enter the code.
The code needs to be entered into the box.Click the icon and hear the code if you can't read it.Click the button "Change the CAPTCHA code" if you want a new code.
Step 9: You can write down your application ID.
You can see your Application ID if you look in the top right corner of the page.The number should be written down before you start on your application.You can continue with your application if you accidentally close your browser.If you stop working on the program for 20 minutes, it will close.
Step 10: Provide the requested information.
You have to follow the instructions on each page.Provide the requested information.As you complete the application, remember to answer in English.Only the English alphabet is used.Once you have completed everything, you can check your answers.
Step 11: Take a picture.
Your picture will be uploaded before you submit your application.The picture should be uploaded in a digital form.If you see your picture on your confirmation page, the photo upload was successful.When you see a blank box on your confirmation page, you know the picture hasn't uploaded.You will need to send a copy of your confirmation page and a printed photograph to the embassy or consulate where you will apply for your visa.
Step 12: You can submit your application.
The sign application button serves as an electronic signature and you can sign it by clicking on it.Then you have to submit the application.If you don't want to submit your application the day you finish it, you can download a copy to your desktop and submit it within 30 days.It's a good idea to print off your confirmation page.This page is needed when you visit your embassy or consulate.
Step 13: You have to pay your fee.
The fee may have to be paid before you can submit your application.You will be asked to make a payment if that is the case.A visa costs $160.Depending on your country, you may have to pay an issuance fee.You can save the page showing the receipt of your payment.You need this page later.
Step 14: You can schedule an interview.
You must attend an interview with the U.S. Embassy.The website for the embassy or consulate in the city where you are applying should be reviewed.They might have instructions for scheduling interviews.You should contact the office.The State Department website shows the wait time for interviews.Press enter if you want to enter your city.
Step 15: Attend the interview.
An officer will determine if you are eligible for a visa at the interview.Depending on the office you interview at, you will have to take ink-free digital fingerprints either during the interview or after.If you paid your passport fee before the interview, you need to provide proof that you can pay all of the costs of your trip.
Step 16: You can check the status of your application.
You can check the status by contacting the embassy where you filed the application.Call the Office of Visa Services if you applied while in the U.S.
Step 17: You should apply in person.
You can apply for a visa in person at the embassy or consulate, avoiding the hassle of applying online.It's important to bring documentation and an ability to pay.You will need to bring a photograph of yourself.
Step 18: You can visit the website.
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) website is where you can apply for permission to travel under the Visa Waiver program.To start your application, click on "New Application" at the website.
Step 19: You should read the information.
The requirements for applying for electronic authorization can be found on the screen.Make sure you meet all of the requirements.Click on either Individual Application or Group Application and read the information on each screen.
Step 20: The requested information can be entered.
Information about your stay in the United States must be provided.If you have a passport, you can answer all of the questions.All of your information will be reviewed at step five.Carefully review it.If you need to change something, click the button on the section that contains the incorrect information.
Step 21: You have to pay your fee.
Paying your fee is the final step.You have to use a valid credit card in order to pay the fee.If you prefer, you can also use PayPal.
Step 22: You can check your status.
You will usually get an immediate status update.It can take more time to review your application.You may need to wait up to 72 hours for a decision.You may not be allowed to travel under the Visa Waiver program.You will need to apply for a visa through the Department of State if you are not approved.You can check your status by returning to the website and clicking on "Check ESTA Status" and then "Individual Application." You should have your passport number, application number and birth date handy so that you can retrieve the status of your application.