29 South Webster Street, Suite 370 Naperville,
IL 60540

At Kasturi Law, LLC, our Naperville immigration and nationality law attorney knows that, according to the U.S. Department of State, nonimmigrant visa approvals jumped from 2.7 million the previous year to over 6.8 million last year.

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issues Form I-94, an Arrival/Departure Record, to nonimmigrants who enter the United States. The I-94 confirms that the nonimmigrant has been legally admitted to the country for a specific visa status and for a specified period of time and indicates how long the nonimmigrant is allowed to stay.

Nonimmigrant Visa

The majority, 76% of I-94 admissions, were temporary visitors for business and pleasure, 14% were temporary workers and their families, and 5.9% were students and their families.

The United States maintains a thorough and specific visa policy that carefully reviews each application, often including an interview with a consular officer. Our Illinois immigration lawyer can help streamline the process, increasing your chances of success on the first attempt. Here’s what those seeking nonimmigrant visas need to know.

What Do I Need to Apply for a Nonimmigrant Visa to the United States?

If you are seeking a nonimmigrant visa to the United States, it is crucial to research and understand the specific nonimmigrant visa category that aligns with your purpose of travel.

Common categories include:

While each visa category has its own set of requirements, forms, and procedures, the DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form is required for most nonimmigrant visa categories.

Standard documents needed for a nonimmigrant visa application may include, but are not limited to:

  • Passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended period of stay.
  • Passport-sized photos that meet the specifications outlined by the consulate.
  • Visa application confirmation page.
  • Proof of travel purposes may include invitation letters, conference registrations, or employment letters.
  • Financial documents showing your ability to cover your expenses during your stay.
  • Proof of ties to your home country, such as property ownership, employment, and family ties, to demonstrate your intention to return after your visit.

Most nonimmigrant visa applicants must appear for an interview at the embassy or consulate in their home country. It is crucial to schedule your interview appointment well in advance, as wait times can vary.

To prepare for the interview, familiarize yourself with potential interview questions and be ready to provide clear and honest answers. Practice discussing your travel plans, purpose of visit, ties to your home country, and any other relevant details.

Remember to start the visa application process well before your planned travel dates to allow for any unexpected delays and additional processing time while your application and supporting documentation are reviewed.

Contact Our Immigration Attorney Today For Consultation

If you encounter challenges during your nonimmigrant visa application process, remember that professional assistance is just a call away. Contact Kasturi Law today to learn how our experienced immigration attorney in Illinois can guide you. We offer in-office, phone, and Zoom consultations to help you understand your legal rights and options and ensure you can make informed decisions about your immigration journey.