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North America · Country guide

United States

World-class universities and a large job market, with a visa system that is detailed and highly specific.

Capital
Washington, D.C.
Languages
English
Currency
US dollar (USD)
Pathways covered
5

Sample content — pending verification. This page shows the structure of a Visa & Beyond guide. General descriptions are for orientation only; specific rules, fees, costs and deadlines have deliberately not been filled in. Always use the official links on this page for current requirements.

Last reviewed . Immigration rules change often. This is general educational information, not legal or immigration advice, and Visa & Beyond is not affiliated with any government. Confirm everything on the official website before you apply. Disclaimer

Overview

The United States has two main agencies you will meet on official websites: the Department of State (visas issued at embassies and consulates) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS, which handles petitions and status inside the US).

The visa system is organised by letter categories. Knowing which category fits your purpose is the first step. Requirements, fees and appointment wait times are published on the official sites and change frequently.

Visa pathways

The main routes people research for United States. Names are given for orientation; read eligibility, fees and processing information on the official page.

Visit & tourism

Visitor visas (B-1/B-2) & ESTA

Business or tourism visits. Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries may use ESTA instead. Use only the official ESTA website.

Official page
Study

Student visas (F and M)

For students accepted by a SEVP-certified school. Exchange visitors may use the J visa.

Official page
Work

Temporary work visas

Several categories (for example H-1B, L-1, O-1) exist, most requiring a US employer or sponsor to file first.

Official page
Permanent residence

Immigrant visas

Family-based, employment-based and other immigrant visa categories lead to lawful permanent residence.

Official page
Permanent residence

Diversity Visa Program

An annual programme with a free official entry form. Scammers often impersonate it, so never pay anyone to "win".

Official page

Work opportunities

Most US work visas are employer-driven: a US employer typically files a petition before you can apply. Treat any offer that asks you to pay for a job, a "sponsorship slot" or a lottery result as a red flag.

Work abroad guides

Study opportunities

EducationUSA, a US Department of State network, offers free, official advice on choosing universities, testing and funding, including advising centres in many countries.

Study abroad guides

Estimated living costs

Living costs vary widely by city, household size and lifestyle. We have not yet published verified figures for this guide. When we do, each estimate will show its source and date. Use this list to plan the categories you will need to budget for.

Rent (shared or one-bedroom)Figure pending verification
Utilities & internetFigure pending verification
GroceriesFigure pending verification
Local transportFigure pending verification
Health insurance / healthcareFigure pending verification
Mobile phone planFigure pending verification
Initial set-up costs (deposit, furniture)Figure pending verification

Important requirements

Commonly requested across many visa types. The official document list for your specific visa always takes priority.

  • A valid passport. Many countries require it to remain valid for a minimum period beyond your stay; check the exact rule for your visa.
  • A completed application submitted through the official government portal or an authorised visa application centre.
  • Evidence of the purpose of your stay, such as an offer letter, letter of admission, invitation or itinerary.
  • Proof that you can support yourself financially, usually through bank statements, sponsorship letters or scholarship letters.
  • Biometrics (fingerprints and photo), medical examinations or police certificates may be requested for some visa types.
  • Payment of the official government fee. Fees are published on the official website and can change.

Official government resources

Official sources for United States

Life in United States

The US is a federal country, so many everyday rules (driving licences, healthcare costs, taxes) differ by state. Health insurance is a major consideration for newcomers, as is building a credit history.

Life abroad guides

Keep reading

Essential guides

Other destinations