USA

Family-based Immigration

These visas are granted to potential immigrants who have close ties to a relative who is a citizen or a permanent resident of the US.

The following criteria, if matched, will mean your relative can help you immigrate to the US:

• Relative is over 21 years of age
• Relative is either a US citizen or a permanent resident
• Relative is an immediate one, like a spouse, parent, child or sibling
• Relative could also be a distant one if you are applying for family preference, however the number of visas issued in this category are very limited

Employment-based Immigration

This visa type gives the holder rights to immigrate to the US on grounds of employment. This allows the applicant to apply for permanent residency in the US. Following 5 years of permanent residency, the visa applicant may move for US citizenship.

H-1B Visa

The H-1B Visa is a very popular option amongst Indians. They are meant for applicants who are employed in special occupations. This essentially refers to applicants with highly specialized degrees employed in unique jobs who have a lot to offer to the American economy.

The professions that are included are:

• Fashion Models
• Graphic Designers
• Fashion Designers
• Accounting
• Architecture
• Engineering
• Law

A bachelors degree, and preferably higher education in specialised fields makes for an ideal applicant. The education gained does not have to be from a US university, as long as it holds up when evaluated according to US standards.

The job landed by the applicant must require the degree earned by him/her. The job conditions offered must be the same as what is offered to US citizens, and the salary must be equal.

There was a scare following Trump’s ban on the H-1B visa, as this meant Indians could not access the most popular way of getting access to the US, especially in the IT sector. The ban has been lifted, which means you can successfully apply for this visa now.  

Student Visa

The student visa is an extensive visa that offers entry to foreign nationals for various types and stages of education. The applicant must be accepted in the preferred institute before applying for the student visa. The institute will provide you with some of the documentation that you will have to provide when you submit your application.

Tourist visa

There are several reasons for applicants to want a tourist visa.

They are as follows:

• Business
• Tourism
• Purposes that will take a short span of time

You may not apply for a tourism visa for the following reasons:

• Studies
• Work/employment
• Any kind of paid performance
• Being a crew member on a flight
• Work in media
• Permanent residency