How Many Types of U.S. Visas Are There?
The U.S. offers a wide range of visas, categorized into nonimmigrant (temporary) and immigrant (permanent residency) types. As of 2025, there are over 185 visa classifications under U.S. immigration law, but they broadly fall into key categories like visitor, student, work, family, and exchange visas. This guide focuses on popular nonimmigrant visas—B1, B2, F-1, J-1—and some family-based immigrant visas (F-2A, F-2B, F-3, F-4)—to answer your questions.
What is US Visa B1, B2, vs B2?
The B1 and B2 visas are nonimmigrant visitor visas for temporary stays. Note: It seems there’s a typo in your question (“B2 vs B2”). I’ll assume you meant B1 vs. B2. Here’s the breakdown:
| Visa Type | Purpose | Allowed Activities | Work Allowed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| B1 | Business | Meetings, conferences, negotiations | No |
| B2 | Tourism/Medical | Vacation, visiting family, medical treatment | No |
| B1/B2 | Combo | Both business and tourism | No |
Key Note: B1 is not a working visa—it’s for business activities, not employment. Most applicants get a combined B1/B2 visa, valid for up to 10 years, allowing multiple entries.
What is F-1 and B1/B2 Visa?
The F-1 visa is for academic students, while B1/B2 is for visitors. Here’s a comparison:
| Visa Type | Purpose | Duration | Work Allowed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| F-1 | Full-time study | Duration of program + OPT | Limited (on-campus, OPT) |
| B1/B2 | Business/Tourism | Up to 6 months per entry | No |
OPT: Optional Practical Training allows F-1 students to work in their field for up to 12 months (24 more for STEM).
What is F-1, F-2A, F-2B, F-3, F-4 Visa?
These are different categories—F-1 is nonimmigrant, while F-2A to F-4 are immigrant visas for family reunification:
| Visa Type | Category | Eligible Applicants | Path to Residency? |
|---|---|---|---|
| F-1 | Nonimmigrant | Academic students | No (temporary) |
| F-2A | Immigrant | Spouses/kids under 21 of permanent residents | Yes |
| F-2B | Immigrant | Unmarried kids over 21 of permanent residents | Yes |
| F-3 | Immigrant | Married kids of U.S. citizens | Yes |
| F-4 | Immigrant | Siblings of U.S. citizens | Yes |
Wait Times: F-2A to F-4 have backlogs—F-4 can take over 15 years due to annual caps.
Which U.S. Visa is Best?
There’s no “best” visa—it depends on your goal: - Tourism: B2 or B1/B2. - Study: F-1 (academic) or J-1 (exchange). - Work: H-1B (specialty jobs). - Residency: F-2A to F-4 or EB visas. Evaluate your purpose, duration, and eligibility.
What is a J-1 Visa?
The J-1 visa is for exchange visitors—think students, interns, au pairs, or researchers. It promotes cultural exchange and often requires a 2-year home-country return after the program. Duration varies by program (e.g., 12 months for interns, 5 years for researchers).
Should I Select B1 or B2?
- Choose B1 for business trips (e.g., meetings). - Choose B2 for tourism or medical visits. - Most get B1/B2 for flexibility. Specify your primary purpose at entry.
How Long Can I Stay in the US with a B1/B2 Visa?
Typically, up to 6 months per entry, decided by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the border. The visa itself can be valid for 10 years, allowing multiple entries. Extensions are possible via Form I-539 (additional 6 months, file 45 days before expiry).
What is the 10-Year Tourist Visa?
This refers to the B1/B2 visa, often issued with a 10-year validity for multiple entries. Each stay is capped at 6 months unless extended. It’s ideal for frequent travelers but doesn’t allow work or study.
Can I Change My B1/B2 Visa to F-1 in the USA?
Yes, if: - You’re lawfully admitted on B1/B2. - Your status is still valid. - You’ve been accepted to a SEVP-approved school (get Form I-20). File Form I-539 with USCIS before your B1/B2 expires (45+ days recommended). Processing takes 3-6 months.
How Much is the DS-160 Fee for B1/B2 Visa?
The DS-160 itself has no fee, but the visa application fee is $185 (as of 2025). Additional reciprocity fees may apply based on your country.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is B1 a working visa?
No, B1 is for business activities (e.g., meetings), not employment. For work, consider H-1B.
2. Can I study on a B1/B2?
No, only short recreational courses (e.g., a 2-day cooking class) are allowed. For full-time study, get an F-1.
3. How long does B1/B2 processing take?
2 weeks to 2 months, depending on the consulate and interview wait times.
References & Resources
- USCIS - Visa rules.
- State Department - Visa applications.
- DS-160 - Online form.
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