Top 10 Most Common U.S. Visas Explained
When planning to come to the United States, one of the first things you’ll need to figure out is which visa fits your purpose. With dozens of U.S. visa categories, it can be overwhelming—but a small group of visas accounts for the majority of approved applications. In this guide, Law Group International breaks down the 10 most common U.S. visas, including who qualifies and how each works.
Official sources: Visit USCIS Nonimmigrant Visa Page and U.S. Dept. of State Visa Types
The Top 10 Visas
Below are the 10 visas most frequently granted each year.
B-1/B-2 Visitor Visas
B-1 Visa (Business Visitor)
- Purpose: Attend business meetings, negotiate contracts, or participate in training.
- Eligibility: Proof of business intent, ties to home country.
- Tip: Bring an invitation letter to your visa interview.
B-2 Visa (Tourist Visitor)
- Purpose: Tourism, visiting family, medical visits.
- Eligibility: Evidence of temporary stay, financial means, and home ties.
F-1 Student Visa
- Purpose: Enroll in full-time academic studies or English-language programs.
- Eligibility: Acceptance by SEVP-certified school, show financial support.
- Explore post-study immigration with our EB-1 green card services.
H-1B Visa (Specialty Occupation)
- Purpose: Professional-level roles requiring a bachelor’s degree.
- Eligibility: U.S. job offer, Labor Condition Application (LCA), relevant degree.
- See Department of Labor LCA Info
L-1 Visa (Intracompany Transferee)
- Purpose: Transfer executives or employees with specialized knowledge.
- Eligibility: One continuous year of employment with a related foreign entity.
J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa
- Purpose: Cultural and educational exchanges, including scholars and interns.
- Eligibility: Acceptance to an approved program, sufficient English skills.
O-1 Visa (Extraordinary Ability)
- Purpose: Work in the U.S. if you have national or international acclaim.
- Eligibility: Extensive evidence in arts, sciences, athletics, or business.
- Learn about EB-1A options for permanent residence.
E-2 Treaty Investor Visa
- Purpose: Invest and run a business in the U.S.
- Eligibility: Substantial investment, nationality of a treaty country.
K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa
- Purpose: Enter the U.S. to marry a U.S. citizen within 90 days.
- Eligibility: In-person meeting within the last two years, intent to marry.
H-2B Temporary Non-Agricultural Worker Visa
- Purpose: Work seasonally in areas like hospitality, landscaping, or tourism.
- Eligibility: Temporary job offer, LCA, no available U.S. workers.
TN Visa (USMCA Professionals)
- Purpose: Work in the U.S. as a Canadian or Mexican citizen under USMCA.
- Eligibility: Pre-arranged job in eligible profession, valid credentials.
General Eligibility Requirements
- Valid Passport: At least six months past intended stay.
- Non-Immigrant Intent: Show ties to your home country.
- Financial Support: Proof of income or a sponsor.
- Clean Background: Some may need police certificates.
- Documentation: Invitation, admission, or employment letters.
Application Overview
Determine the Appropriate Visa Type
Start by understanding which category aligns with your reason for travel.
Complete the Online Form (DS-160)
Submit your visa application form with accurate information and a compliant photo.
Pay the Application Fee
Most fees range from $160 to $265. Follow embassy-specific payment instructions.
Schedule & Prepare for Your Visa Interview
Gather your passport, confirmation page, and supporting documents. Dress neatly and arrive early.
Attend the Interview & Await a Decision
Many decisions are issued the same day, but some cases may enter “administrative processing.”
Which Visa Is Right for You?
Understanding the most common U.S. visas is the first step to a successful journey. Whether you’re visiting, studying, working, or planning to stay permanently, choosing the right visa, and preparing properly, can make all the difference.
Not sure where to begin? Contact Law Group International to check your eligibility and move forward with confidence.