Tourist Visas

I have finally saved enough money for my dream vacation in the United States. What do I need to do to obtain entry into the U.S. as a tourist?

You must apply at the embassy or consulate in your home country for a nonimmigrant visa. The visa type for tourism is referred to as a "B-2" visa. As with all visas, you should apply as soon as you have travel plans. You are not permitted to work on a visitor visa.

I will be traveling to the United States to attend a business conference. What do I need to do to obtain entry into the U.S. on business?

You must apply at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country for a nonimmigrant visa. The visa type for business travel is referred to as a "B-1" visa. You must show that you have business-related work in the United States and that your visit is temporary and that you will leave the United States after your legally authorized stay. Apply as soon as you have travel plans.

My friend told me I can get a waiver and that I do not need a visa to travel to America. Is this true?

You may qualify under the Visa Waiver Program if you will be traveling in the United States for business or pleasure for less than 90 days, and you are a citizen of a qualifying country. The qualifying countries include: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Monaco, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. However, qualifications may be amended at any time. Check for any changes to the Visa Waiver Program at: www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/id_visa/business_pleasure/vwp/.

My doctor has told me that I can receive the best medical care for my illness in the United States. What do I need to do to enter the United States for medical treatment?

You can apply for entry into the United States using a "B-2" visitor visa for medical treatment. In addition to the standard requirements for a B-2 visa, you need to provide the following information:

• a diagnosis from a doctor about your medical condition explaining why you need treatment in the United States;
• a letter from an American doctor or hospital stating willingness to treat you, an estimate of the doctor's fees, costs of hospitalization and other medical expenses and an estimate of the length of the treatment; and
• proof of sufficient funds to pay your travel and medical expenses.