Africans who wish to move to the US will require a visa based on the reason for their stay. Right here, we will detail all the common types of US visas and the application process to guide you on your US visa application.
How to Apply for a US Visa from Africa
- You must possess a valid International passport
- Pay the visa application fee. There are different types of fees for different types of visas, however, you can pay all fees at the designated bank or do so online. Keep in mind that the visa application fee is non-refundable and you will have to provide your receipt to confirm your payment.
- Next, you will have to fill the DS-160 form. Read the guidelines for completing the DS-160 form before filling the form. Take note of the information provided and ensure they are accurate and correct. Once the form is submitted, you will not be allowed to make corrections. You can consult an agent, immigration lawyer, or translator to guide you in filling the form. Once the form is submitted, you will need your DS-160 number to book an appointment.
- Next, you will have to create a profile with the US immigration service to schedule your visa appointment.
- Once created, you will be able to schedule an appointment from your dashboard.
- You will have to provide the following details to schedule your appointment
- Your passport number
- The receipt number of the visa fee payment
- The ten (10) digit barcode number from the applicant’s DS-160 confirmation page
- Visit the U.S Embassy on the date and time of your visa interview. You will be required to provide all your documents plus additional documentation depending on your visa type.
- At the Embassy, your fingerprints will be scanned.
- If your visa application is approved, it will be sent to the document drop-off location you selected when scheduling your appointment.
Common Types of US Visas
Work Visa
If you want to work in the United States temporarily as a non-immigrant, you will need a work visa. There are several types of work visas offered to non-immigrants based on the U.S immigration law. You will need your employer to fill petition which must be approved by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) before you can apply for a work visa.
Student Visa
If you’re looking to further your education in the US, you will have to apply for a student visa. The United States welcomes foreign students and only requires that you should be accepted and approved by your school or program to be offered a student visa. Once accepted, the educational institutions will provide the applicant with the necessary approval documentation to be submitted during the student visa process.
Domestic Employee Visa
Personal or domestic servants accompanying an employer to the US will be able to apply for B-1 visa. This includes housemaids, valets, footmen, cooks, butlers, chauffeurs, gardeners, nannies, au pairs, and mothers’ helpers
Exchange Visitor Visa
The United States allows foreign citizens to participate in exchange programs. However, you will have to be accepted and approved by an authorized program sponsor. When accepted, the applicant will be provided with the necessary documentation by the educational institution or program sponsors.
Transit/Ship Crew Visa
A foreigner traveling in immediate and continuous transit through the US en-route to a foreign destination will require a valid transit visa. For crew members serving onboard a sea vessel or aircraft in the US, they will need a crew visa. The latter might require both a transit/crew visa to be allowed passage.