If the purpose for your planned travel is to consult with business associates, travel for a scientific, educational, professional or business convention, or conference on specific dates, settle an estate, or negotiate a contract, then a business visitor visa (B-1) would be the appropriate type of visa for your travel. Learn more about the business visitor visa here (PDF) or visit the State Department’s Business Visa Center.

Note: Travelers coming to the U.S. for tourism or business for 90 days or less from qualified countries may be eligible to visit the U.S. without a visa if they meet the visa waiver program requirements. Learn more about the Visa Waiver Program here and find out if you meet the visa waiver requirements.

If the purpose of your planned travel is recreational in nature, including tourism, amusement, visits with friends or relatives, rest, medical treatment, or activities of a fraternal, social, or service nature, then a visitor visa would be the appropriate type of visa for your travel. Learn more about the visitor visa, including how to apply for a visa, by clicking here.

Note: Travelers coming to the U.S. for tourism or business for 90 days or less from qualified countries may be eligible to visit the U.S. without a visa if they meet the visa waiver program requirements. Learn more about the Visa Waiver Program here and find out if you meet the visa waiver requirements.

Most non-U.S. citizens who wish to study in the United States will need an F-1 student visa, but there are other visa types that are sometimes authorized for those who study in the U.S. For more information about studying in the United States, visit the State Department’s EducationUSA Web site. Specific information about student visas can be found here.