The United States is known for its strict visa policies that control immigration. To enter the country—even for a layover—you need a visa stamp in your passport. However, this stamp only indicates that the consul has approved your visa; it doesn’t guarantee entry. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) personnel decide whether you can enter the U.S.
Methods for obtaining visas
Following the 2021 restrictions on hiring staff for diplomatic missions, U.S. consulates in Russia suspended the issuance of visas. As of 2024, the only option for obtaining a U.S. visa has been through countries that have resumed processing Russian citizens. These include Baku, Astana, Bishkek, Tashkent, Yerevan, and others.
Non-immigrant visas are issued for temporary visits, such as tourism, study, or family visits. In contrast, immigrant visas are intended for individuals who plan to stay in the U.S. long-term for work or other reasons. The main difference between these types of visas is their duration. Non-immigrant visas are considered temporary, even if valid for up to three years. When necessary, holders of multiple-entry non-immigrant visas must gather their documents and reapply from their home country, submitting a new DS-160 form to USCIS for an extension. Immigrant visas, also known as green cards, are for those who wish to become permanent residents of the U.S. These visas do not have an expiration date and grant the holder residency status.
Freelancer visa
As of early 2024, 40% of employees in Moscow and other regions of Russia were working remotely, and an additional 19 million freelancers were self-employed, seeking opportunities abroad. Many of these freelancers are looking to relocate to the United States.
While the U.S. has not yet introduced visas specifically for self-employed individuals and digital nomads, there are other flexible options available. This variety of choices empowers those interested in exploring new business environments or expanding IT projects internationally. They may apply for visitor visas, O-1, O-2, or EB-1/EB-2 visas, providing a range of choices for their unique circumstances.
- An investor visa is an option for entrepreneurs. This visa requires a significant investment of $800,000 in a profitable U.S. company or establishing a new business. Freelancers can also apply for the B-1 visitor visa, which is valid for two years and allows them to conduct technical or market research, including market analysis.
- IT professionals often apply for the H-1B visa, which is granted based on proven achievements in digital technology. To demonstrate expertise in IT, applicants need to provide evidence such as completed projects, developed software, games, certifications, interviews, and awards.
- The O-1 non-immigrant visa (O-1A visa) is a significant opportunity for individuals with extraordinary abilities in science, education, arts, design, and sports (O-1 visa). It is issued for up to 3 years and can be extended indefinitely upon the employer's request. This visa allows expatriates to relocate with their children up to 21 years old, but it does not permit employment for the dependents.
- The EB-1 visa is awarded to applicants with extraordinary achievements across various fields. The EB-2 visa is designed for experts in specialized fields or those with rare skills. The primary difference between these categories is the level of professional expertise and contributions to a particular industry.
- The O-2 visa, which is not tied to a specific employer, is available for 6 to 12 months for a limited list of professions and accompanying individuals. It is typically requested by holders of the O-1B visa, including marketing and design professionals, their families (O-3), and individuals with extraordinary abilities.
How much do visas cost
This year, the long-term multiple-entry tourist visa fee has increased to $185. The application fee for student visas (F and M) ranges from $200 to $350. Filing Form I-129 for employment costs $460. The fee for talent visas starts at $10,000.
Applicants must pay these fees in the local currency of the country where the interview takes place, according to the embassy's exchange rate, using a credit card or through their account. Russian credit cards are not accepted for these transactions.
Types of visas
Immigration law specifies different types of permits for visiting the country for various purposes. To obtain a stamp in their passport, an applicant must clearly define their purpose and meet the required criteria.
Main Categories:
- Tourist Visas: For temporary visits such as sightseeing and family visits.
- Student Visas (F-1, M): For students attending universities, colleges, or language schools.
- Business Visas: For long-term business trips and commercial activities.
- Work Visas (H-1B, L, O, P, Q, R): For employment and entrepreneurial activities.
Processing times vary by country. With expedited processing, which can be requested for an extra fee, you can expect to receive a decision within 15 days.
Student visa
People travel to the U.S. for secondary and higher education or to attend language courses. The F-1 visa is issued based on a formal agreement with an educational institution that provides Form I-20.
A more accessible and affordable option is to enter the country through an invitation from a private school for English language studies (approximately $400-600 per month) or a college. This visa category is for students enrolled for at least 18 hours per week. The M visa is suitable for young people pursuing vocational training.
Tourist visa
Immigration authorities issue B1/B2 multiple-entry visas valid for 3 years. To obtain this visa, applicants must submit a complete and accurate application and clearly state their purpose of visit. The B1/B2 visa allows for multiple entries into the U.S., with each stay permitted for up to 180 days. Customs and Border Protection officers determine the exact length of stay for each visit, depending on the frequency and duration of previous trips. This visa type allows entry up to 5 times within 12 months, with stays of up to 2 months at a time.
Business visa
Russian and international entrepreneurs visit the U.S. for business purposes based on invitations from their business partners. They come to conduct negotiations, finalize contracts, and explore new products and technologies at trade shows and presentations.
The business visa is also available for sports or cultural event participants traveling for professional exchanges.
Work visa
The H-1B immigrant visa can be a basis for obtaining U.S. citizenship. The H-2B visa is issued for one year based on an employer's invitation, with the possibility of an extension.
Key visa categories include:
- L-1 Visa: For transferring employees within international companies or for managers opening new offices.
- O-1 Visa: Issued for up to 3 years to individuals with extraordinary abilities in science, business, or the arts.
- P Visa: Granted to media representatives, entertainers, and athletes for long-term work.
Required documents
CGI Federal, ais.usvisa-info.com, and evisaforms.state.gov.
Different types of visas require other documentation. The exact lists of necessary documents are published on the respective embassy websites. First, Applicants must complete the standard DS-160 form and schedule an interview through resources like:
Documents Required for an Embassy Interview:
- Employment or Education Verification: A letter from your school or employer detailing your salary and job title.
- Bank Statement: A statement showing financial transactions for the past 3-6 months.
- Photographs: Digital photos in JPEG format (maximum 240 KB).
- Marriage Certificate: A scanned copy of your marriage certificate.
- Fee Payment Receipt: Proof of payment for the application fee.
Applicants should also gather documentation to support the purpose of their visit. During the interview, it’s important to demonstrate strong ties to your home country by providing proof of property ownership and round-trip airline tickets. The consular officer decides to issue any type of U.S. visa, often relying more on personal interaction than the documents provided. If the decision is temporarily delayed, you can check your status on the CEAC website.
Recent changes in U.S. visa regulations
In light of the increasing immigration activity, authorities are paying more attention to legalizing foreign nationals. Due to the rise in unauthorized crossings at the U.S.-Canada border, a new law to speed up document processing came into effect on August 14.