Once USCIS
United States Citizenship and Immigration Services
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is an agency of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that administers the country's naturalization and immigration system. It is a successor to the Immigration and Naturalization Service, which was dissolved by the Homeland S…
Can I travel to the United States without a visa?
Certain international travelers may be eligible to travel to the United States without a visa if they meet the requirements for visa-free travel. The Visa section of this website is all about U.S. visas for foreign citizens to travel to the United States.
Should I get a US visa if I come from another country?
I always encourage travelers from developing countries to get a US visa at some point. It opens up doors to many other countries. More and more countries are offering visa exemption with a valid US visa.
Do you need a visa to travel?
Having a valid US Visa gives you the privilege to travel to many countries without a visa. There are oodles of destinations just a flight away that offer visa on arrival, while some don’t even require a visa. Travel instantly, without needing to plan days or months in advance. Don’t have to pay for a visa (except for a few countries)
Is it possible to travel 49 countries with US visa?
Yes, you read it correctly. Travel 49 countries and territories VISA-FREE with US visa. I always encourage travelers from developing countries to get a US visa at some point. It opens up doors to many other countries. More and more countries are offering visa exemption with a valid US visa. This list is growing fast.
Can I travel with approved U visa?
Once USCIS has approved your U visa application, you may only enter the U.S. with an official visa from the consulate or with advance parole if you have filed your application for lawful permanent residence.
Can you travel internationally with U visa?
U Visa Travel Restrictions If you filed a U-Visa application in the U.S. and it's pending, it is not advisable to travel abroad. If you travel before USCIS adjudicates your I-918 petition, you will be stuck outside the U.S. until it's approved and transferred to an embassy or consulate near you.
What can you do with a visa U?
A U-Visa lets victims of crimes who meet certain requirements stay in the United States. A U-Visa provides the following benefits: You can legally live in the United States for four years. After three years of having a U-Visa you can apply for a green card to stay in the U.S. permanently.
Can you become a citizen with visa U?
U Visa holders become eligible to apply to adjust status to lawful permanent resident (green card) after three years in U nonimmigrant status. After five years as a lawful permanent resident, one becomes eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship.
What happens after U visa?
After the U visa is approved at the USCIS Vermont Service Center, the file will be sent to the Kentucky Consular Center (KCC) for processing. KCC will then determine which consular post should receive the file and forward it accordingly.
How long does it take to get a green card through U visa?
In most cases, long wait times are an unfortunate reality when dealing with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) department. After you submit your application, the U visa waiting time can range between 12 to 18 months.
How long does it take to get a work permit with U visa?
US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) maintains an online portal with up-to-date estimates of application processing times for most immigration petitions. Currently, the estimated waiting time for a work permit is approximately 2.5 – 5 months.
How long are U visa certification good for?
Is this a normal time frame for validity? o Yes, the VSC may issue U nonimmigrant status for a maximum period of four years under 8 C.F.R. § 214.14(g)(1).
Can U visa applicant get work permit?
Because it is taking so long for the government to review U visa applications, USCIS may give you a work permit and deferred action while you wait for a final decision.
Can you get green card with U visa?
U.S. immigration law allows noncitizens who have been victims of certain crimes and granted U nonimmigrant status (U visa) to become lawful permanent residents (get a Green Card). To qualify for a Green Card as a crime victim, you must have U nonimmigrant status and meet certain eligibility requirements.
What means visa U?
The U nonimmigrant status (U visa) is set aside for victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and are helpful to law enforcement or government officials in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity.
Is U visa a green card?
U.S. immigration law allows noncitizens who have been victims of certain crimes and granted U nonimmigrant status (U visa) to become lawful permanent residents (get a Green Card).
Does advance parole count as legal entry?
When border patrol officials grant your parole request, then you can enter the United States legally. Advance Parole provides a path to re-entry, but it does not guarantee your re-entry into the United States. The U.S. immigration official at the port of entry will make that decision.
What is a permissible visa?
Permitted visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry US visas
How long does a US visa last?
US visa must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival. Passport must be valid for at least 3 months from the day of arrival. Must show proof of economic solvency for a minimum of $500 USD.
How many countries can you add to your visa free list?
If you are worried that the VISA-FREE list for your passport is just too small, then get a US visa. It will add about 49 countries to your VISA-FREE list. This is how you give more “power” to your “powerless” passport.
Which territories are included in the US?
Includes the US territories: US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Northern Mariana Islands, and Guam
Can I travel to 49 countries with a US visa?
Yes, you read it correctly. Travel 49 countries and territories VISA-FREE with US visa. I always encourage travelers from developing countries to get a US visa at some point. It opens up doors to many other countries. More and more countries are offering visa exemption with a valid US visa. This list is growing fast.
Which countries have multiple entry visas?
Holding Valid Multiple entry Visa or Resident Permit of United States of America (USA), United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Japan or valid Visa of Schengen State
How long is a US visa valid?
Holding valid Multiple entry Visa or Resident Permit of United States of America (USA), United Kingdom or Schengen state. Visa should be valid for at least 6 months and must have been previously used. For example, if you have a US Visa, you must have entered the US with that visa in order to qualify for this waiver.
How long does a visa last in Columbia?
Visa must be valid for at least 6 months at the time of entering Columbia
What is a visa for a foreigner?
A visa allows a foreign citizen to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (generally an airport) and request permission to enter the United States. A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port-of-entry have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States. If you are allowed to enter the United States, the CBP official will provide an admission stamp or a paper Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record. Learn more about admissions and entry requirements, restrictions about bringing food, agricultural products, and other restricted/prohibited goods, and more by reviewing the CBP website.
What happens after a visa interview?
After your visa interview, the consular officer may determine that your application requires further administrative processing. The consular officer will inform you if this required.
How long does a passport need to be valid for a visa interview?
Gather and prepare the following required documents before your visa interview: Passport valid for travel to the United States – Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States (unless exempt by country-specific agreements ).
What happens if you fail to leave the US on time?
Failure to depart the United States on time will result in being out of status. Under U.S. law, visas of individuals who are out of status are automatically voided ( Section 222 (g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act ). Any multiple entry visa that was voided due to being out of status will not be valid for future entries into the United States.
Where to schedule a visa interview?
You should schedule an appointment for your visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country where you live. You may schedule your interview at another U.S. Embassy or Consulate, but be aware that it may be more difficult to qualify for a visa outside of the country where you live.
Can a visa be voided?
Under U.S. law, visas of individuals who are out of status are automatically voided ( Section 222 (g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act ). Any multiple entry visa that was voided due to being out of status will not be valid for future entries into the United States.
Do you need an interview for a visa?
Interviews are generally required for visa applicants with certain limited exceptions below. Consular officers may require an interview of any visa applicant.
What is a U.S. Visa?
A citizen of a foreign country who seeks to enter the United States generally must first obtain a U.S. visa, which is placed in the traveler’s passport, a travel document issued by the traveler’s country of citizenship.
Find out what visa type is appropriate for you
The type of visa you must obtain is defined by U.S. immigration law, and relates to the purpose of your travel.
Visa Appointment Wait Time
A wait time listed as "999 calendar days" indicates that the Consular Section is only providing that service to emergency cases. Please check the Embassy or Consulate website for further information.
What if my F-1 student visa has expired?
You can stay in the United States on an expired F-1 visa as long as you maintain your student status. However, if you are returning home or traveling to a country where automatic revalidation does not apply, you must have a valid visa to return to the United States.
What if I have an expired passport or one that will expire in less than six months?
You must renew your passport before you re-enter the United States. Usually, to enter the United States, you must have a passport that is valid for at least six months after the date you enter or re-enter.
Do dependents have to travel with the primary?
No . However, your primary must be maintaining status. Consult the DSO from your primary’s school to ensure your primary is in status before traveling. You will need a valid passport. See Re-entry for F-1 Non-immigrants Travelling Outside the United States for Five Months or Fewer above
Are there any other requirements for dependents to travel outside the United States?
However, if you are not returning to your country of citizenship, you should check the requirements of the country you are visiting . Some countries will require a visa. You may also need a visa for countries where you are making a connecting flight. Be sure to check before you travel.
Do M-2 nonimmigrants have to travel with the primary (M-1)?
No. However, you must be able to show that your primary (M-1) has been admit ted and has maintain ed student status. We recommend that you consult with the DSO from your primary’s school to ensure the M-1 is in status before traveling. You will need the documents, which are listed in the “What documents do the spouse and minor children of a continuing M-1 student need to reenter to the United States after traveling abroad?” FAQ.
Do I need a valid visa to visit Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands, or the Northern Mariana Islands?
No, unless your travel plans include entry to any other country en route to these U.S. territories. You will need a valid Form I-20 and a valid unexpired Form I-94. Be sure that you do not have a terminated SEVIS record indicating that you are out of status.
Can I re-establish F-1 student status by obtaining a new initial Form I-20 and reentering the United States?
Yes. However, you will be considered an initial student for SEVIS purposes. You will have to pay the I-901 SEVIS fee again and you will lose any time that you have accrued toward qualification for training (OPT) or employment.
How long can you stay in a country with a US visa?
Visa information: One can visit the country for 1 . days with a US visa. More info
How long is a visa valid for?
Visa information: Eligible for visa on arrival valid for a period of 3 . days. More info
How long is a US visa valid for Honduras?
Visa information: With a US visa valid for six months, one can enter Honduras for a period of 9 . days. More info
How much does it cost to get an electronic travel authorization?
Visa information: Apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization, if you have a US visa that's valid for 3 months. The fee is $5 . and the processing time is 1 . business days. More info
Why Do Countries Offer Visa Exemption to Us Visa holders?
Which Us Visas Are Eligible?
- Depending on the country, any of the below US visas can be used. 1. US Tourist/Business Visa (B1, B2, B1/B2) 2. US Work Visa (H1, L1) 3. US Study Visa (F1, J1) 4. US Transit/Crew member Visa (C1, D, C1/D) 5. US Residence Permit (Green card) Refer to each country below for permitted US visa types. Some countries require the US visa to be multiple-en...
North America
- 01. Canada
1. Eligible nationalties:Brazil passport holders only 2. Permitted visas:Valid used/unused multiple-entry non-immigrant US visas – B1, B2, B1/B2, F1, J1, H1 and L1 only 3. Permitted resident permits:A valid US green card (applies to all nationalities) 4. Entry granted:180 days 5. Entry rule… - 02. Mexico
1. Eligible nationalties:All nationalities 2. Permitted visas:All valid used/unused multiple-entry US visas 3. Permitted resident permits:A valid US green card 4. Entry granted:Varies depending on the itinerary 5. Entry rules: 5.1. US visa or green card must be valid for the entire stay in Mexico 5.2. …
Central America
- 04. Belize
1. Eligible nationalties:All nationalities 2. Permitted visas:All valid used/unused multiple-entry US visas 3. Permitted resident permits:A valid US green card 4. Entry granted:30 days 5. Original Sources: 5.1. Belize.com 5.2. Belize High Commission in London 5.3. Embassy of Belize in Wash… - 05. Costa Rica
1. Eligible nationalties:All nationalities 2. Permitted visas:Valid used/unused multiple-entry US visas – B1, B2, B1/B2, C1/D, D, F1, J1, H1 and L1 only 3. Permitted resident permits:A valid US green card 4. Entry granted:30 days 5. Entry rules: 5.1. B1, B2, B1/B2, C1/D and D visas must be v…
Caribbean
- 11. Anguilla
1. Eligible nationalties:All nationalities 2. Permitted visas:All valid used/unused multiple-entry US visas 3. Permitted resident permits:A valid US green card 4. Entry granted:90 days 5. Original sources: 5.1. Anguilla Tourist Board, entry requirements 5.2. IATA Travel Center — - 12. Antigua and Barbuda
1. Eligible nationalties:All nationalities 2. Permitted visas:All valid used/unused multiple-entry US visas 3. Permitted resident permits:A valid US green card 4. Entry granted:30 days 5. Entry rules: 5.1. Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL (VOA) 5.2. VOA fee is $10…
South America
- 26. Argentina
1. Eligible nationalities: Following nationalities only 1.1. Albania 1.2. Angola 1.3. Antigua and Barbuda 1.4. Bahamas 1.5. Bahrain 1.6. Belize 1.7. Benin 1.8. Bhutan 1.9. Bosnia and Herzegovina 1.10. Botswana 1.11. Brunei 1.12. Burkina Faso 1.13. Burundi 1.14. Cambodia 1.15. Cameroon 1… - 27. Chile
1. Eligible nationalities: Following nationalities only 1.1. China 1.2. Dominican Republic 1.3. India 2. Permitted visas:All valid used/unused multiple-entry US visas, except C1 (transit) 3. Permitted resident permits:A valid US green card 4. Entry granted:90 days 5. Entry rules: 5.1. US visa must …
Europe
- 30. Albania
1. Eligible nationalities:All nationalities 2. Permitted visas:All valid used multiple-entry US visas 3. Permitted resident permits:A valid US green card 4. Entry granted:90 days 5. Entry rules: 5.1. US visa must have been used at least once to enter the US before 6. Original sources: 6.1. Ministry … - 31. Bosnia and Herzegovina
1. Eligible nationalities:All nationalities, except Kosovo 2. Permitted visas:All valid used/unused multiple-entry US visas 3. Permitted resident permits:A valid US green card 4. Entry granted:30 days 5. Entry rules: 5.1. US visa must be valid for at least 30 days from the day of arrival 6. Origin…
Middle East
- 37. Oman
1. Eligible nationalities: Following nationalities only 1.1. Albania 1.2. Armenia 1.3. Azerbaijan 1.4. Belarus 1.5. Bhutan 1.6. Bosnia and Herzegovina 1.7. Costa Rica 1.8. Cuba 1.9. El Salvador 1.10. Guatemala 1.11. Honduras 1.12. India 1.13. Kazakhstan 1.14. Kyrgyzstan 1.15. Laos 1.16. Maldi… - 38. Qatar
1. Eligible nationalities:All nationalities 2. Permitted visas:All valid used/unused multiple-entry US visas, except C1 (transit) 3. Permitted resident permits:A valid US green card 4. Entry granted:30 days 5. Entry rules: 5.1. Visa in NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for Qatar ETA 5.2. ETA is f…
Asia
- 41. Malaysia
1. Eligible nationalities: Following nationalities only 1.1. Bangladesh 1.2. India 1.3. Pakistan 1.4. Sri Lanka 2. Permitted visas:All valid used/unused multiple-entry US visas 3. Permitted resident permits:A valid US green card 4. Entry granted:120 hours (5 days) 5. Entry rules: 5.1. Visa is NO… - 42. Philippines
1. Eligible nationalities: Following nationalities only 1.1. India 2. Permitted visas:All valid used/unused multiple-entry US visas 3. Permitted resident permits:A valid US green card 4. Entry granted:14 days 5. Entry rules: 5.1. US visa must be valid for the entire duration of stay 5.2. Pass…
Conclusion
- There you have it! List of 45 countries and territories you can travel visa-free with US visa. If you don’t have a US visa already, it’s time to apply for one and add another 45 to your list of VISA-FREE countries. Do you know any other country (I haven’t listed here) that offers visa exemption for US visa holders? Let me know in the comments below.