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There are over 20 available visa's for temporary visitors to the USA. Depending upon your country of origin, and your purpose of visiting the USA, will determine what if any visa you need. Many countries remain for the moment, visa exempt under the visa waiver policy.

For myself as a European Union passport holder, and having UK as my place of birth, I am free to enter the USA for a period of up to 90 days to travel or research, without applying for any type of visa unless I am commencing work or school. Most European Union countries are still listed as Visa exempt, and a detailed list of countries with this exemption is kept with the American Embassy. Entering the USA as a UK resident involves only filling out a 1-94 form, which includes stating my destination, and stating that I have never committed and Indictable criminal offense. This form can generally be filled out at the airport with a fee of $8 US.

For Canadians wishing to study or travel in the USA, the rules changed in late January 2007. Now if traveling by land or air, a Canadian citizen must present their passport along with other picture identification to prove citizenship. If only entering the US for a matter of days or weeks to attend a conference or have a vacation, a visa is not generally required. For those who wish to stay longer, a B1 or B2 or a combination B1/B2 visa is advisable.

A B1 visa is primarily a business visa, designed for people who expect to take an extended business trip whether for the purpose of attending seminars or seeking out new business ventures. This visa is good for a period of six months, and can be obtained at the local American Embassy office.

The B2 visa is primarily a pleasure or travel visa. For snowbirds who go to Florida each winter to live, or someone who just wants to take a few months to travel, the B2 visa is also good for six months.

Generally most Canadian citizens or Canadian permanent residents are advised to seek out the combination B1/B2 visa, which covers any business or pleasure travel plans that may arise. Often, these visa's can be filled out and obtained at land borders saving a trip to the American Embassy office. In the case of either the B1, B2 or combination visa, a Canadian or permanent resident must show strong ties to Canada, proving they will return, along with having sufficient money to live during their six months in the USA.

For students who wish to study in the USA, they must provide proof of acceptance by a US school, along with filling out an 1-20 form. This visa gives them permission to study within the USA, but not to work. Should they drop out of school and wish to find work, a new visa must be applied for. A student must also be prepared to show proof of having a fixed address and sufficient funds to support them during their school year, along with US medical coverage.

Learn more about this author, Melissa D. Ing.
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