Non-immigrantTemporary visit
B-1 / B-2 — Tourism and business
B-1 for business visits (meetings, conferences). B-2 for tourism, family visits or medical treatment.
- Usually granted for up to 6 months per entry.
- Does not allow full-time work or study.
- Many countries don't need a B visa and use ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program.
Non-immigrantStudy
F-1 — Academic student
To study at universities, colleges, secondary schools or accredited English programs.
- Requires admission to a SEVP-approved school and a Form I-20.
- Allows limited on-campus work and CPT/OPT programs.
- OPT allows up to 12 months of work after graduation (36 if STEM).
Non-immigrantVocational
M-1 — Vocational student
For non-academic technical or vocational training programs.
- Does not allow work during studies (except practical training at the end).
- Duration limited to the program plus 30 days.
Non-immigrantExchange
J-1 — Exchange visitor
For exchange programs: au pair, internships, researchers, visiting physicians, teachers, secondary students, etc.
- Sponsored by a State Department-designated program.
- Some holders are subject to the 2-year home residency rule.
- Many subcategories with their own rules.