What is a US Visa?
A citizen of a foreign country who seeks to travel to the United States generally must first obtain a U.S. visa. Visas are placed in the traveler’s passport, a travel document issued by the traveler’s country of citizenship.
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 type of visa you must obtain is defined by U.S. immigration law, and relates to the purpose of your travel.
Please visit the US Visa Wizard to find out what visa type is appropriate for you. A complete list of Visa Categories along with a helpful glossary of terms used in the application process can also be found on the US State Department website.
Most attendees will require a Visitor Visa (B), which states that “A foreigner traveling to the United States to conduct temporary business must have a visitor visa (B) unless qualifying for entry under the Visa Waiver Program.”
Examples of temporary business include:
Read more about the Visitor Visa (B) and how to apply here: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/business.html
You can also visit our Frequently Asked Questions, or find information about the Visa Waiver Program.
Effective November 1, 2025, all immigrant visa applicants will be scheduled for their interview in the consular district designated for their country of residence or alternatively, may apply in their country of nationality if requested, with limited exceptions.
Effective September 6, 2025, all nonimmigrant visa applicants should schedule their interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their country of residence or nationality.
Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate that processes visas in your country of nationality or residence.
Nationals of countries where the U.S. government is not conducting routine visa operations must apply at the designated embassy or consulate, unless their residence is elsewhere. Please see the list of Designated Nonimmigrant Visa Locations and Designated Immigrant Visa Locations for visa processing.
For more information on securing your visa, please visit www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas.html