There are various types of visas that foreign nationals may apply for. Those who are only planning on entering the United States on a temporary basis should apply for a nonimmigrant visa.
This visa allows individuals to come into the country for specific reasons. Approval does not occur for everyone who applies, so it helps if applicants prepare for the application and interview.
Purposes for nonimmigrant visas
According to USA.gov, a foreign national may apply for a nonimmigrant visa for purposes of business, tourism, temporary work, medical treatment, education and social events. A person entering the U.S. for business reasons should apply for a B-1 visa, while a B-2 visa is appropriate for most other reasons.
Before applying for a nonimmigrant visa, foreign nationals should check to see if their country participates in the Visa Waiver Program. If so, this individual does not need a visa but still needs to get a travel authorization approval prior to the trip.
Preparing for the interview
The United States generally grants approval for those who can show that they have every intention of returning to their home country. Many of the questions asked during the application interview, which occurs at the U.S. Embassy or consulate in the applicant’s country, are to establish that the applicant will leave the U.S. after the intended stay.
The U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic provides advice for those preparing for the interview. Applicants should plan on answering questions referring to the purpose of the trip, family and community ties, job or career aspirations back home. It may also help if applicants bring along documentation, such as bank statements, marriage certificates, birth certificates or job promise letters to support their case. The interview is usually only a few minutes long, so applicants should prepare to prove their case quickly.