People from every corner of the globe want to find opportunities to better themselves and the world around them. If you want to explore the opportunities specifically available in the US, then you must get the appropriate visas.
It is often best to apply for a non-immigrant visa since they are easier and cheaper to attain. So, what are the most popular non-immigrant US visas, and how long do they last?
B-1: Athlete, Business, and Domestic Workers
The B-1 visa allows amateur and professional athletes, business visitors, and domestic employees accompanying a foreign national employer to enter the US for a specific length of time. Some B-1 visas are valid for up to a decade, but you must leave the US within that decade. Many only allow continual residence in the US for up to six months at a time.
If you are an athlete hoping to travel to the US on a B-1, then you must only compete for prize money because a B-1 visa is not for employment. Even business visitors on a B-1 should not visit for employment or media activity. They should use a B-1 for consultations, contracts, or conferences.
A domestic employee, such as a nanny, cannot use a B-1 visa to work either. They should enter the US with this type of visa because they are already employed by a foreign national who has their own visa.
B-2: Medical Patients and Tourists
The B-2 visa allows people to temporarily visit the US to receive medical treatment or participate in various tourist activities. Like the B-1 visa, B-2 visas are often valid for about 10 years.
You can visit the US multiple times with the same B-2 visa if it is valid. However, the maximum number of days you can stay in the US after entering is 180 days.
The US is an attractive destination for those seeking various medical treatments. Since many people recover from medical treatments within 180 days, the B-2 visa is an excellent option.
People who want to visit friends or relatives, enjoy a fun vacation in a new place, or just travel as tourists can also receive the B-2 visa. Amateurs can even compete in musical or sporting events on a B-2 visa if they do not receive payment for their participation.
F and M: Academic or Vocational Students
Lastly, F and M visas are some of the most popular non-immigrant US visas. The F visa is for traditional academics who want to study at private primary schools, high schools, seminaries, universities, or conservatories. An F visa even covers language training programs.
Students on an F visa must leave the US within 60 days of their program ending, which is one of the major differences between immigrant and non-immigrant visas.
The M visa is for students who are not pursuing academic credits. Many of these students seek vocational training opportunities or another type of training other than language. People on this visa must leave the US within 30 days of their program’s completion.
Traveling to the US on any type of visa is complicated. Immigration lawyers and other professionals can help you obtain whatever visa you need, although they often charge a fee. Research your options before deciding what country you want to travel to and what visa you’ll need.
