🔹 1. Determine Your Purpose
First, decide why you want to move to the U.S., as this will determine the type of visa you need:
- F-1 – Student Visa
- B1/B2 – Business or Tourist Visa
- H-1B – Skilled Worker Visa
- DV Lottery – Diversity Visa (Green Card Lottery)
- IR/CR – Family-Based Immigrant Visa
- EB-5 – Investor Visa
- L-1, O-1, J-1, etc. – Other employment or exchange visas
🔹 2. Apply for the Appropriate Visa
https://ceac.state.gov/CEAC/
Depending on your category, you will need to complete a visa application:
Immigrant visa (green card): Go through Form I-130 (family-based), I-140 (employment), or DV Lottery entry
Non-immigrant visa (temporary): Fill out the DS-160 form
🔹 3. Pay the Visa Fee
Visa fees vary based on the type (typically $160–$500+). Payment is done online or via authorized centers.
🔹 4. Schedule a Visa Interview
After submitting your visa application:
Schedule your biometrics and consular interview at the U.S. embassy in your country
Create an account at U.S. Visa Appointment Portal
🔹 5. Prepare for the Visa Interview
Bring the following documents:
- Valid passport
- DS-160 confirmation page (for non-immigrant) or I-130/I-140 approval (for immigrant)
- Photo (2×2 inch as per guidelines)
- Financial support documents
- Educational or employment records
- Any supporting sponsor letters (if applicable)
🔹 6. Attend the Visa Interview
Answer truthfully and confidently. The visa officer will decide based on your intent, background, and eligibility.
🔹 7. Receive Your Visa
If approved, your passport will be returned with a visa stamp. For immigrant visas, you’ll receive a packet to present at the U.S. port of entry.
🔹 8. Plan Your Move
Once you have your visa:
- Book your flight
- Arrange accommodation in the U.S.
- Carry important documents (passport, I-20, I-94, job offer letter, etc.)
🔹 9. Arrival in the U.S.
At the airport:
- Present your documents to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
- Answer basic questions about your stay
- Receive an entry stamp and begin your U.S. journey!
🔹 10. Post-Arrival Steps
Apply for a Social Security Number (SSN)
Open a bank account
Apply for health insurance
Learn about your visa restrictions and compliance rules
Would you like a version of this guide specifically for student visas, work visas, or green card pathways?
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