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United States visas
Whether you need a visa to enter the United States, or can travel under the Visa Waiver Program with an approved ESTA, depends on your nationality and the purpose of your trip. US visas are issued by the U.S. Department of State through its Bureau of Consular Affairs. This hub explains the main routes — the Visa Waiver Program, visitor, student, exchange and work visas — in plain language and links to the official travel.state.gov sources so you can confirm exactly what applies to you before you travel or apply.
- Official informationFrom government sources
- Clear guidanceStep-by-step explanations
- Regularly reviewedKept up to date
Important information
Your exact requirements depend on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries may travel for tourism or business for up to 90 days with an approved ESTA; others need the visa category that matches their purpose. Citizens of Canada and Bermuda generally have different requirements. Always confirm what you need with the official U.S. Department of State guidance before you travel or apply.
Find the right United States visa for you
Choose the category that matches your plans. Each route explains who it is for, what it covers and how to apply.
United States visa overview
How to apply – in 3 simple steps
- Check eligibilityUse the quick checker to confirm which visa you need for your trip.
- Prepare documentsGather your passport, photos and supporting paperwork using our guides.
- Submit & trackSubmit your application and track its progress.
Apply for a United States visa
Start an application online and follow the guided steps.
Explore United States visa types
Every United States route we cover, with a short summary of who it is for.
US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) & ESTA
Lets citizens and nationals of participating countries travel to the US for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa, with an approved ESTA obtained before travel.
US Visitor Visa (B-1 / B-2)
A temporary visa for business (B-1), tourism or medical treatment (B-2), or the two combined (B-1/B-2). No employment is permitted.
US Exchange Visitor Visa (J)
The visa for people approved to take part in exchange visitor programs in the US. A visitor visa or the Visa Waiver Program cannot be used for exchange programs.
US Work Visas (H, L, O and more)
An overview of the US temporary worker visa categories — such as H, L and O — with a link to the full official directory of visa categories.
US Student Visa (F and M)
The visas for people coming to the US to study — the F visa for academic study and the M visa for vocational or non-academic study.
Popular United States guides
People also asked
Do I need a visa or an ESTA to visit the US?
If you are a citizen or national of a Visa Waiver Program country travelling for tourism or business for up to 90 days, you may be able to travel with an approved ESTA instead of a visa. Otherwise you need the US visa category that matches your purpose. Check the official U.S. Department of State guidance for your situation.
Is an ESTA the same as a visa?
No. An ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is required to travel under the Visa Waiver Program, but it is not a visa, and approval does not guarantee entry to the United States.
Can I study or take part in an exchange on the Visa Waiver Program?
No. The Visa Waiver Program and visitor (B) visas are for tourism or business only. Study needs an F or M student visa, and exchange programs need a J exchange visitor visa.