In order to enter the United States as a foreign national, you’ll need a visa. However, the range of visas is extensive, and the type of visa that you need and how to apply for a visa can be very confusing. At the law offices of the Illinois Immigration Law Group, our immigration attorneys provide visa assistance and support. To learn more about visas and how we can assist you, please call us directly today or send us a message.

Immigrant vs. Nonimmigrant Visas

The government classifies visas into two broad categories: immigrant and nonimmigrant.

Immigrant visas are for those who are wishing to live permanently in the United States; nonimmigrant visas are for those who wish to come to the U.S. temporarily. There are more than 20 different categories of nonimmigrant visas!

• Immigrant visas: If you are hoping to live within the United States permanently, you can seek an immigrant visa based on:
  • Your status as an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident;
  • As an employee if you have an employer-sponsored visa; or
  • As your status as an immigrant in a certain other category, such a diversity immigrant.
• Nonimmigrant visas: For those who merely want to travel to the United States but do not have aims to live permanently in the United States, the list of potential visas is long and includes, but is not limited to, visas for:
  • Athletes;
  • Au pairs;
  • Business visitors;
  • Crew members;
  • Foreign military personnel;
  • Temporary agricultural workers;
  • Victims of criminal activity or human trafficking; and
  • More.

The Process of Applying for an Immigrant or Nonimmigrant Visa

Whether you are pursuing an immigrant or a nonimmigrant visa, the process of applying and being approved can be arduous, especially if other barriers exist, such as financial or language barriers. At the very least, the immigrant visa process is likely to involve submitting a petition or having someone else submit a petition on your behalf (for example, your U.S. citizen family member may need to file a petition on your behalf), paying fees, submitting an affidavit of support, providing financial documents, submitting civil documents, attending an interview, and more.

Our Lawyers Provide the Support You Need

Regardless of your purpose for coming to the United States, our lawyers can provide support and guidance throughout the process. We have experience helping individuals to acquire a wide range of visas, including both immigrant and nonimmigrant visas. We can prepare your documents and petitions, help you to prepare for an interview, and answer any questions you have throughout the process.

Call the Illinois Immigration Law Group Today

To learn more about the Illinois Immigration Law Group and how we can provide visa assistance and support for you or a member of your family, please call us directly today. We are available to talk at (847) 495-2223 and can also take requests for consultations through our website. Contact us today to get started.