Visa vs. Passport
PASSPORT:
An official government-issued document certifying the holder’s identity and citizenship. It allows travelers to leave and re-enter their home country and request entry into foreign countries under their government’s protection.
VISA:
An endorsement in a passport that permits the holder to enter, leave, or stay in a specific country for a designated period.
Visas for Travel to the United States
Most foreign citizens must obtain a U.S. visa, placed in their passports, before traveling to the United States. A visa shows that a U.S. embassy or consulate has determined the traveler is eligible to seek entry for a specific purpose. However, a visa does not guarantee entry; it allows you to travel to a port of entry (such as an airport, seaport, or land border) and request permission from a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer to enter the country. CBP officers, part of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), determine admission and decide on the duration and status of stay.
Some travelers may qualify for visa-free entry under programs like the Visa Waiver Program. For detailed information, visit the Visa section of the U.S. Department of State website.
Visas for U.S. Citizens Traveling Abroad
U.S. citizens don’t need a visa to travel within the United States, but many countries require U.S. travelers to obtain a visa in advance. Always check the visa requirements for your destination before booking. Visit the Country Information pages in the Passport section of the U.S. Department of State website for up-to-date entry requirements.
Types of U.S. Visas
U.S. visas fall into two main categories, determined by immigration law and the purpose of your visit:
• Nonimmigrant Visas: For temporary stays (e.g., tourism, business, study). Learn more.
• Immigrant Visas: For those moving permanently to the United States. Learn more.
How to Read a U.S. Visa
A U.S. visa is a sticker placed in your passport that includes essential details:
• ✅ Visa Type/Class – Indicates the purpose of your visit (e.g., B1/B2 for business/tourism, F1 for students).
• ✅ Visa Number – A red number usually printed in the lower right corner of the visa.
• ✅ Expiration Date – The last date you can use the visa to seek entry to the U.S. It does not determine how long you can stay; that’s decided at the port of entry.
• ✅ Entries – Shows how many times you can use the visa to enter the U.S. before it expires (e.g., “M” for multiple entries, or a specific number like “1”).
• ✅ Name & Passport Details – Must match exactly with your passport information.
• ✅ Photo – Your picture, used by border officials to verify your identity.
Important Note:
A visa allows you to travel to a port of entry to request permission to enter. It does not guarantee entry or determine the duration of your stay.
For more information, visit travel.state.gov and contact us for help with your visa needs.
