What is a US Non-Immigrant (Temporary) Visa and What Are Its Types?
Nonimmigrant visas are a type of visa issued to individuals who wish to travel to the United States temporarily for tourism, business, temporary work, education, or medical treatment. There are over 20 types of nonimmigrant visas available for individuals traveling to the United States temporarily.
If you are traveling from Turkey to the United States temporarily, you must obtain a valid nonimmigrant U.S. visa, regardless of the type of passport you have. To obtain a U.S. visa, you must start with the online application process and complete the application process with a visa interview at a U.S. foreign mission.
In what cases can I get a temporary visa to the USA?
American non-immigrant visa types can be obtained for visiting or transiting the United States, studying and working in the United States.
US Visit Visas
US visit visas are listed below.
- US business visa (B1)
- US tourist visa (B2)
- US health visa (B2)
- America transit visa (C)
US Education Visas
US education visas are listed below.
- US student visa (F)
- US vocational training visa (M)
- US exchange program visa (J)
US Temporary Work Visas
US temporary work visas are listed below.
- US crew visa (D)
- US journalist visa (I)
- US trader visa (E1)
- US investor visa (E2)
- US temporary worker and intern visas (H, L, O, P, Q, R)
Frequently Asked Questions
The questions most frequently asked to our consultants about US temporary visas are answered below.
How Long Does a US Nonimmigrant Visa Last?
The validity period of a US non-immigrant visa varies depending on your travel purpose and is shown in the table below.
| US nonimmigrant visa type | Visa validity period |
|---|---|
| US visitor visas | 10 years |
| Transit visa | 5 years |
| US education visas | 5 years |
| Temporary work visas | 5 years |
| USA international cultural exchange visa | 15 months |
The expiration date on your visa sticker only means you can use it to arrive in the US by that date, but it doesn’t mean you can stay in the US until that date. The US immigration officer from the Department of Homeland Security at the port of entry decides whether you are allowed to enter the US and how long you can stay in the US.
How Much Are US Temporary Visa Fees?
As of 2024, the US temporary visa fee varies between $185 and $240 depending on the visa type.
You can see the relevant visa application fees and valid payment methods according to the purpose of travel in the US visa fee table.
Can a US Visitor Visa Be Converted to a Green Card?
Yes, a US visitor visa can be converted into a green card.
U.S. immigration law allows a temporary visitor to change status to permanent resident if they enter the U.S. legally and meet certain requirements.