General Visa Information

The following pages provide information for those who wish to seek to enter the United States for a temporary period and for those who wish to take up indefinite or permanent residence.

What is a Visa?
A visa is a document issued by a U.S. Embassy or Consulate and placed in the bearer's passport.  A visa entitles the holder to travel to the United States and apply for admission; it does not guarantee entry.  A U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officer at the port of entry determines the visa holder's eligibility for admission into the United States and the length of stay.

Who needs a visa?
Anyone who is not eligible to enter the United States visa-free under the Visa Waiver Program, or any other exemption from the visa requirement under the Immigration and Nationality Act will require a visa. At present, citizens of the British Overseas Territory of Bermuda who have no ineligibilities qualify for a visa exemption under US law.

Please proceed onto Types of Visas.