Before applying for any visa type, certain documents are essential in gathering all the required forms and supporting documentation. Please refer to the US Embassy website for the most up-to-date list of necessary items.

As part of your application process, you will also need to submit a DS-160 online. A valid passport that isn't expired is also necessary.

Visitor’s Visa

Visitor visas are nonimmigrant nonimmigrant visas which permit foreign nationals to temporarily enter the US for business (visa category B-1), tourism (visa category B-2) or both purposes (visa category B-2). Visitors may stay for up to six months; all valid passports and an interview appointment at their nearest Embassy or Consulate must be attended prior to applying for such a visa.

Applicant must demonstrate strong ties to their home country and that they plan on returning after the visit, by providing evidence such as: employment letters from their employers; transcripts or diplomas from schools attended; financial stability evidence (bank statements or investment portfolios); copies of birth, marriage and deed documents for family living in the US as well as travel arrangements (airline tickets or hotel reservations); as well as medical reasons.

If you are a citizen of one of the countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program, no visa is needed to enter Canada for tourism or medical treatments. However, if you hold permanent residency status such as Green Card holders or another type, visitors visa may need to be applied for or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) may be issued before entering.

Visitor visa applications can be complex and time consuming. To apply, applicants must fill out a DS-160 form, make an appointment with a consular officer, and pay any required fees. As this can take up to two months, applicants are encouraged to plan ahead by applying online instead of via mail - saving both time and effort!

At a visa interview, a consular officer will examine an applicant's documents and ask questions. Applicants should bring proof that they have strong ties to their home countries through bank statements, investment portfolios, assets or any other documentation showing this; furthermore they must show they will return once their trip ends by providing copies of passports, lease agreements or property deeds as evidence of financial stability.

Student Visa

Students looking to pursue higher education in the US require a student visa in order to enter. Since this process can be long and complicated, it's wise to start planning early. Reach out to universities of your choosing to determine admission requirements; apply well before their deadline; prepare for an interview conducted by a visa officer that will ask about academic and professional goals as well as why you wish to study there; etc.

Dependent upon your country of origin, biometrics may be part of your application for visa approval. This requires taking pictures and fingerprints for processing your application; make sure you also possess all relevant documents such as proof of financial support as the officer will use these to validate your identity by reviewing passport, driver's license or any other necessary forms.

If you are a citizen of a non-visa waiver country, to obtain a student visa you must visit your US embassy or consulate and submit all of the required documents; these include an I-20/DS-2019 from your school as well as financial support letters and proof of funds - you have up to 365 days before beginning study to apply for one.

If you wish to apply for an SEVP student visa, you must be enrolled in an SEVP-approved school - this may include universities, private high schools, seminaries, private elementary schools conservatories or language programs - the SEVP website provides a list of approved institutions. In order to prove you can cover tuition and living costs while studying in the United States.

If you are studying towards a bachelor's degree, your visa will cover both the duration of your program as well as any Optional Practical Training (OPT) hours that may be offered after. OPT hours can sometimes even extend beyond your original program period provided you maintain good academic standing and meet other requirements. However, if you plan to work while in school in the US it is wise to consult your Designated School Official prior to making application for student visa.

TN/TD Visa

TN visas are available to citizens of Canada and Mexico working in professions covered under NAFTA. This nonimmigrant status allows temporary entry into the United States; any extension beyond their initial period must be filed using Form I-129.

TD visas are issued to immediate family members of TN visa holders who want to remain in the United States in "trade dependent" status, under supervision by that individual. While dependents cannot attend school themselves, they must still receive financial support from their TN visa holder.

The process for Canadian citizens applying for TD visas is similar, with some minor variations. Spouses and children of those holding TN visas must present themselves for admission at one of CBP's ports of entry, providing proof of their relationship and ability to support themselves, along with proof that the TN holder intends to maintain his or her status in America.

While TD visas may appear similar to other nonimmigrant statuses, there is one key difference: It requires that those applying for an TN visa first secure employment before their spouse or children can enter the country. This requirement can make entry more challenging for individuals just starting out who may not know exactly which kind of employment opportunities exist for them.

Before making any decisions regarding this option, it is vitally important to meet with an experienced immigration attorney first. They can offer invaluable guidance regarding application completion tips and interview preparation techniques; ensure TN visa holders have active jobs in their field with supporting documentation; this can decrease the likelihood of rejection by CBP officers while at the same time guaranteeing that their TD visa remains valid until its maximum duration period has elapsed.

Green Card

Green Cards are United States Permanent Resident Cards that enable individuals to work and live permanently in the US, based on several criteria, including employment, family relations, EB-5 investments and winning the Diversity Visa Lottery program. In order to acquire one of these visas, one must fill out appropriate forms and fulfill certain requirements.

There are different kinds of green cards available. A family sponsored green card, granted to immediate relatives of United States citizens such as spouses, children and parents; an employment sponsored green card granted by companies within the US for workers - often with a specific end date where you're only allowed to remain within its terms; or both types can exist together - have similar types of limitations on who may obtain one and when.

Religious-sponsored green cards are awarded to members of a particular religion who wish to come to America for religious work, immigrate legally and pursue their religious missions here. To qualify, you must have been part of your denomination for at least two years prior to applying, along with an offer from an employer in America.

Canadian immigrants can take advantage of a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) when applying for their green card in the US, instead of through federal Express Entry system. PNP can help Canadian citizens immigrate through individual provinces or territories rather than federal Express Entry system; this could be especially beneficial to Canadians who know which region in US they wish to settle but lack experience or skills that qualify them as national immigration system candidates.

Once you receive a green card, it is imperative that you remember you are required to carry it at all times when in the US. Should a law enforcement official stop you, they may request to see it. Travel with a copy so you can show it if necessary.