Practice Areas
United States Temporary Residence Visas
A USA Temporary Residence Visa, commonly known as a non-immigrant visa, is essential for individuals who plan to stay in the United States for a specified period for purposes like tourism, work, or study. These visas do not grant permanent residency and require the applicant to demonstrate intent to return to their home country after their stay.
Common Types of USA Temporary Residence Visas
Tourist Visa
For those traveling to the U.S. for leisure, family visits, or medical purposes.
Work Visa
For individuals seeking employment in the U.S. for a specific period.
Student Visa
For international students enrolled in educational institutions under the SEVP program.
Non-Immigrant Visitor Visas
Tourist/Visitor Visa –
Visitor Visa – B1/B2
A Visitor visa is for individuals intending to visit the U.S. for short-term purposes, such as business (B1) or leisure (B2).
Key Features
- B1 Visa: For business-related activities like attending conferences, meeting clients, or negotiating contracts.
- B2 Visa: For recreational travel, visiting family, medical treatment, or participating in non-paid events.
Eligibility Criteria
- Purpose limited to business or leisure.
- Sufficient funds to cover expenses during the stay.
- Proof of strong ties to the home country to ensure return after the visit.
- Mandatory disclosure of any criminal record, with potential for an ineligibility waiver in case of convictions.
Key Requirements for USA Visitor Visa
- Valid Passport: The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S.
- Application Form: Complete the DS-160 form online. This form is mandatory for all applicants and must be filled out accurately.
- Visa Appointment and Fee: Schedule an appointment and pay the visa application fee.
- Photographs: Provide two recent passport-size photographs that meet the required specifications.
- Evidence of Financial Support: Show that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in the U.S. without needing to work.
- Ties to Home Country: Demonstrate strong ties to your home country such as employment, property, family, or other factors ensuring you will return after your visit.
- Travel Itinerary: If applicable, provide your planned travel dates, accommodation, and details of your visit.
- Previous U.S. Travel: If you have previously visited the U.S., include details of any prior visas and travel history.
Interview Success Tips
- Prepare Your Documents: Ensure that all documents are accurate and complete. Have proof of your financial status and travel itinerary.
- Confidence and Honesty: Be prepared to explain your travel plans and how you will support yourself during your stay. Answer questions confidently and truthfully.
- Strong Home Country Ties: Be ready to show that you have compelling reasons to return to your home country (e.g., family, job, or property).
- Clear Intent: Clearly explain your temporary visit intentions (tourism, business, or medical) and demonstrate you will leave the U.S. once your visa expires.
USA Non-Immigrant Work Visas
H-1B Visa – Specialty Occupations
The H-1B visa is for individuals working in specialty occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. These jobs often require at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
Eligibility and Requirements:
- The job must be a specialty occupation requiring specific academic or practical qualifications.
- The applicant must hold a relevant degree or equivalent professional experience.
- The sponsoring employer must file a Labor Condition Application (LCA) with the Department of Labor and a petition with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- The applicant must have an offer of employment from a U.S.-based employer.
H-2A Visa – Seasonal Agricultural Workers
The H-2A visa is for temporary or seasonal agricultural work in the United States.
Eligibility and Requirements:
- The employer must demonstrate a lack of available U.S. workers for the job.
- The employer must provide proof of temporary or seasonal work.
- Housing and transportation must be arranged for the worker by the employer.
- A certification must be obtained from the Department of Labor.
H-2B Visa – Seasonal Non-Agricultural Workers
The H-2B visa is for individuals seeking temporary work in non-agricultural roles, such as hospitality, landscaping, or construction.
Eligibility and Requirements:
- The employer must demonstrate that there are not enough U.S. workers able or willing to perform the job.
- The work must be temporary or seasonal in nature.
- The employer must obtain certification from the Department of Labor.
- A petition must be filed with the USCIS.
L-1 Visa – Intra-Company Transferee
The L-1 visa is for employees transferring within a multinational company to work in its U.S. branch, subsidiary, or affiliate.
Eligibility and Requirements:
- The applicant must have worked for the employer outside the U.S. for at least one continuous year within the last three years.
- The applicant must be in an executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge position.
- The U.S. employer must file a petition with the USCIS.
O-1 Visa – Individuals with Extraordinary Ability
The O-1 visa is for individuals who have extraordinary ability in fields such as science, education, business, arts, or athletics.
Eligibility and Requirements:
- Evidence of sustained national or international acclaim in the applicant’s field of expertise.
- Documentation of significant achievements, awards, or contributions.
- A job offer from a U.S.-based employer or agent.
- A petition filed by the employer or agent.
General Requirements
- Petition Approval: Most work visas require a petition filed by a U.S.-based employer and approved by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Completed Form DS-160: The visa application form must be completed online.
- Fee Payment: Non-immigrant visa application fees apply (e.g., $205 for most work visas).
- Appointment Scheduling: Schedule a visa interview through the official website of the U.S. Embassy in Pakistan.
- Documentation: Includes the following:
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay.
- Proof of ties to Pakistan to ensure return after the visa duration.
- Job offer letter, approved petition, and qualifications related to the job.
- Supporting documents like educational certificates or employment records.
Interview and Processing
- All applicants, including those aged 14-79, must attend an in-person interview unless eligible for a waiver.
- Administrative processing may be required for some cases, which can delay final decisions.
USA Student Visas
Types of USA Student Visas
F-1 Visa – Academic Students
For individuals enrolling in a full-time academic program or language training course in a U.S. institution. Covers programs ranging from elementary to postgraduate studies.
M-1 Visa – Vocational Students
For individuals attending vocational or non-academic programs, such as technical courses.
Eligibility Requirements
Admission to a SEVP-Approved Institution
- Students must secure admission to a U.S. institution certified under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
- The institution will provide a Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant Student Status).
English Language Proficiency
- Proof of proficiency in English through standardized tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent.
Financial Stability
- Evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs for the duration of the study program.
- Bank statements, scholarship letters, or sponsor details are required.
Non-Immigrant Intent
- Demonstrate strong ties to Pakistan (e.g., family, property, job prospects) to ensure intent to return after studies.
Academic Credentials
- Copies of transcripts, diplomas, degrees, or certificates from previous institutions.
- Standardized test scores such as SAT, GRE, or GMAT (if required by the U.S. institution).
Completed DS-160 Form
- Fill out the online Non-immigrant Visa Application (DS-160) and print the confirmation page.
Payment of SEVIS Fee
- Pay the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee before your visa interview.
Application Process
Receive Form I-20
- After admission, your U.S. school will issue a Form I-20, which is required for your visa application.
Pay SEVIS Fee
- The SEVIS fee (currently $350) must be paid online at FMJfee.com.
Complete the DS-160 Form
- Submit the DS-160 form and save the confirmation page for your interview.
Pay the Visa Application Fee
- The visa application fee (currently $185) must be paid at an authorized bank in Pakistan.
Schedule a Visa Interview
- Book an appointment for your interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Pakistan.
- Required documents include:
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay.
- Recent passport-sized photograph.
- Form I-20.
- DS-160 confirmation page.
- Visa fee receipt.
Attend the Visa Interview
- Be prepared to answer questions about your study plans, financial status, and ties to Pakistan.
- Provide all required documents, including proof of intent to return after your studies.
Why Choose Us ?
Choose Faisal Basit Sheikh & Cō. LLP for trusted USA visa services. With expertise in U.S. immigration law, we offer personalized guidance for tourist, work, and student visas, ensuring compliance with the latest embassy requirements. From application preparation to interview coaching, we streamline the process with transparency and a proven success record. Let us turn your American dream into reality with confidence and ease.