United States

Who needs a visa for United States?

Of 198 nationalities, 4 enter United States with no paperwork at all. The rest: 182 must be approved before they travel and 12 cannot travel there.

Government fee
$185
Stay permitted
The visa's validity is set by a reciprocity schedule that differs by nationality. Length of stay is decided by the officer at the port of entry.
Apply on the official United States government site

This is the government's own portal. We are not paid to send you there.

Checked 19 September 2026 — read the fees and rules on travel.state.gov

What United States asks for

  • Passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay
  • Form DS-160 confirmation page
  • Appointment confirmation
  • One photograph meeting the published specification
  • Evidence of funds and of ties to your home country
  • Any documents supporting the purpose of the trip

Worth knowing

  • The DS-160 form is free to fill in. Only the $185 MRV processing fee is payable, and it is paid to the designated bank, never to an agent's account.
  • No agent can obtain an earlier interview date. Appointment slots are released by the consulate.
  • A separate issuance fee may apply after approval, depending on your nationality's reciprocity schedule.

What do you need?

Who needs what

Visa free 4

Nothing to apply for and nothing to pay before you travel.

eTA (electronic travel authorisation) 42

Not a visa. A short online form for travellers who are already visa-exempt, usually approved automatically in minutes to hours. No appointment, no interview, no documents.

Visa required 140

You must apply and be approved before you travel. Airlines will refuse to board you without it.

No admission 12

A government policy, not a paperwork problem. No agent or service can work around it.