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Visa Resources

The type of visa you must obtain is defined by U.S. immigration law, and relates to the purpose of your travel. Please visit our  Visa Wizard   to find out what visa type is appropriate for you. You can also visit our  Frequently Asked Questions   or find out about the  Visa Waiver Program .

Other useful links:   Visa Categories   |   Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate   |   Glossary

Nonimmigrant Visas

Nonimmigrant visas allow people to visit the United States for short periods and for specific purposes. If you want to move here permanently, please see the information below on  immigrant visas .

Tourism & Visit A foreign national traveling to the United States for tourism needs a visitor visa (B-2) unless qualifying for entry under the Visa Waiver Program. Tourism is a short visit for vacation, for visiting family and friends, or for medical treatment.

Study & Exchange The United States supports international education and welcomes foreign students and exchange visitors. Before applying for a visa, students and exchange visitors must be accepted by their schools or program sponsors.

Business A foreign national traveling to the United States to conduct temporary business needs a visitor visa (B-1) unless qualifying for entry under the Visa Waiver Program.

Employment To work in the United States temporarily as a lawful nonimmigrant, temporary workers must qualify for the available visa category based on the planned employment purpose.

Other Visa Categories In addition to tourism, visits, business, employment, study and exchange, and immigration, there are other reasons for traveling to the United States, which also generally require a visa.

Immigrant Visas

Do you want to immigrate to the United States, meaning you want to move here permanently? Do you want to sponsor someone to immigrate? Immigrant visas are based on family ties, employment, and the diversity visa. If you want to visit for a short period for a specific purpose, please learn about  nonimmigrant visas  above.

Family Based For certain family members of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders).

Employment For permanent employment or investment by entrepreneurs.

Diversity Visa Annual program making a limited number of  visas available to persons who meet strict eligibility requirements.

Additional U.S. Government Resources

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Administers the nation’s lawful immigration system, grants Green Cards, and naturalizes citizens.

Citizenship Resource Center Green Card Humanitarian Relief

Department of Homeland Security

Provides resources to help you plan your trip, manage your arrival, and, if needed, extend your stay.

Visit the United States Cross U.S. borders Locate a port of entry

Creates and organizes timely, needed government information and services.

Immigration and Citizenship Visas and Visiting the U.S. Recreation and Travel Within the U.S.

U.S. Department of State

The lessons of 1989: freedom and our future.

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Government of Nepal

Ministry of home affairs, department of immigration.

Kalikasthan, Kathmandu.

Tourist Visa

Immigration Offices, under Department of Immigration have been facilitating tourists flying to Nepal by providing Visa on Arrival. 'On Arrival' visa procedure is very quick and simple. You can expect some queues during peak Tourist season. If you wish to skip those queues, you can also consider getting Visa from Nepalese Diplomatic Missions stationed abroad prior to your arrival. Choice is yours.

 If you have obtained visa from Nepalese Diplomatic Missions, then you must enter Nepal within six months from the visa issued date. Your total stay is counted starting from the day you enter into Nepal.

Visas obtained on Arrival at the Entry and Exit points are 'Tourist Visas'.  They bear multiple Re entry facility. Tourist Visa 'On Arrival' is the only entry visa to Nepal. If you are visiting Nepal for the purposes other than Tourism (sightseeing, tour, travel, mountaineering, trekking, visiting friends and families), you should still get ' Tourist Visa' to get into the country.  However, you must change the category of visa as per your purpose and length of stay in Nepal from Department of Immigration by producing required documents.

Nationals of following countries are requested to acquire Visa prior their arrival from their nearby Diplomatic missions (Embassies/consulates) of Nepal Government.  

  • Afghanistan
  • Refugees with travel document

Please follow these simple procedures for Tourist Visa on Arrival at the airport (TIA)  if you have not acquired Visa prior to boarding the plane.

  • Fill in ' Arrival Card '
  • Fill in Online ‘Tourist Visa ‘form ( you can fill it up  prior to your arrival  visiting our official website   Department of Immigration  / fill it up using Kiosk machines upon your arrival at the airport).  If you fill it from the website, you will get submission Receipt with barcode, please print it out and bring it along for acquiring visa. It works for fifteen days and becomes invalid then after.  If so, you will have to fill it up again.
  • Make payment  at the bank according to your visa requirement ( 15/30/90 Days)
  • Get the receipt

While you can use different modes of payments (at visa fees collection counter), we advise you to carry some cash to be on the safe side.

On Arrival Visa Fee at Entry Points

15 Days – 30 USD

30 Days – 50 USD

90 Days – 125 USD

  • Proceed to the Immigration Desk with your online form,  payment receipts and your passport
  • Hand in your documents to immigration officer for visa processing. He/she issues visa to you upon his/her satisfaction.

Visa Extension Fee 

  • Tourist visa extension is done for minimum 15 days with USD 45 and USD 3 per day for additional days.
  • In the case of delay less than 150 days additional USD 5 per day as late fine.

Gratis Visa (Visa for Free)

Gratis Visa is issued free of cost in case of following categories of Visa applicants:

  • Children below 10 years except US citizens
  • Up to 30 days for SAARC Citizen (except Afghanistan) visiting Nepal for the first time in a given visa Year.  Afghan citizen are eligible for Gratis Visa on Arrival only upon the recommendation of Department of Immigration. If you are an Afghan citizen, you can request concerned institution inviting you to Nepal for necessary paperwork with Department of Immigration to get you Gratis Visa 'On Arrival'.
  • Non Residential Nepalese(NRN) card holder ( issued by MoFA /Nepalese diplomatic missions abroad)
  • Chinese Nationals for 150 days

Officials from 

  • Thailand – Exemption up to 90 Days
  • Russian Federation – Exemption up to 90 Days
  • People’s Republic of China – Exemption up to 30 Days
  • Federal Republic of Brazil – Exemption up to 90 Days
  • Myanmar - Exemption up to 90 Days  
  • Vietnam - Exemption up to 90 Days
  • Cambodia - Exemption up to 30 Days
  • Mongolia - Exemption up to 90 Days
  • Jordan - Exemption up to 90 Days
  • State of Israel - Exemption up to 90 Days
  • Georgia - Exemption up to 90 Days
  • State of Qatar - Exemption up to 90 Days

do not need Entry Visa based on reciprocal visa waiver Agreement

Visas of all kinds including ‘Gratis’ issued at the Airport are Tourist Visas. Contact Department of Immigration for extending your visa or changing the category of your visa. Tourist Visa extension can be done from Immigration Office, Pokhara too. Non tourist visa extension can be done only at Department of Immigration (if eligible) for a period of maximum one year (except business visa).

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Visit the U.S.

Generally, if you want to visit ( and not live in ) the United States you must first obtain a visitor visa . Travelers from certain countries may be exempt from this requirement. For more information, please see the U.S. Department of State website .

If you want to travel to the United States for reasons other than business or pleasure, you must apply for a visa in the appropriate category. This includes if you want to study, work as a crew member or journalist, etc. You can get help determining which visa you need by using the Explore My Options page.

Extending Your Visit

If Customs and Border Protection (CBP)  authorizes your admission to the United States at the designated port of entry, you will receive a stamped Form I-94, Record of Arrival-Departure . If you wish to stay beyond the time indicated on the Form I-94, you may apply for an extension by filing Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status , with USCIS.

If You Lose Form I-94

You may apply for a replacement Form I-94 by filing a Form I-102, Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival/Departure Record .

Our Services

Visas / entry permits.

Hong Kong Welcomes All Talents to Create Better

Welcome to the webpages of “Visas/ Entry Permits”.

In general, unless a person has the right of abode or right to land in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), he/she requires a visa/entry permit to work, study, establish or join in any business, take up residence or to stay in the HKSAR as a visitor longer than the allowed visa free period.

Detailed information on the various admission schemes / entry arrangements and the relevant application procedures can be found on the sub-pages and the quick links therein to the electronic services for visa applications allow applicants to submit instantly relevant applications for entry or extension of stay.

Learn More

  • General Employment Policy (GEP) Apply entry now Apply extension now
  • Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP) Apply entry now Apply extension now
  • Technology Talent Admission Scheme (TechTAS) Apply entry now Apply extension now
  • Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates (IANG) Apply entry now Apply extension now
  • Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS) Apply entry now Apply extension now
  • Admission Scheme for the Second Generation of Chinese Hong Kong Permanent Residents (ASSG) Apply entry now Apply extension now
  • Admission Schemes for Talent, Professionals and Entrepreneurs
  • Visit Visa / Entry Permit Requirements for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
  • Immigration Guidelines for Entry to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China
  • Entry Arrangements for Mainland, Macao, Taiwan & Overseas Chinese Residents
  • Permissible Activities for Visitors
  • Re-entry into Hong Kong
  • Arrangements for “e-Visa” Issuance
  • Electronic Services for Visa Application
  • Enquiry of Application Status
  • Submission of Supplementary document(s)
  • Online Payment for “e-Visa”
  • Download “e-Visa”
  • “e-Visa” Enquiry
  • Appointment Booking for Submission of Application
  • Termination of Sponsorship
  • Transfer of Endorsement
  • Entry Visa for New Foreign Domestic Helper Apply entry now
  • Contract Renewal Apply extension now
  • Completion of Remaining Period of Current Contract Apply extension now
  • Change of Employer Apply extension now
  • Extension of Stay on Visitor Status Apply extension now
  • Online Submission of Revised Schedule of Accommodation and Domestic Duties (ID 407G) Apply now
  • Notification of Premature Termination of Employment Contract Apply now
  • Enhanced Supplementary Labour Scheme (formerly known as Supplementary Labour Scheme) Apply entry now Apply extension now
  • Appointment Booking for Submission of Application (You may also choose to submit the application online directly without having to attend an immigration office. Click here )
  • Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES) Apply extension now
  • Investment as Entrepreneurs Apply entry now Apply extension now
  • Training Apply entry now
  • Working Holiday Apply entry now
  • Mainland Fisherman Deckhands Apply entry now
  • Students Apply entry now Apply extension now
  • Dependants Apply entry now Apply extension now
  • Certificate of Entitlement (COE)  
  • Application for Taking up Internship from Non-local Students in Sub-degree Local Programmes
  • Visit/Transit Apply entry now Apply extension now
  • HKSAR Travel Pass Apply now
  • APEC Business Travel Card Apply now
  • Pre-arrival Registration for Indian Nationals Apply entry now
  • Pre-arrival Registration for Taiwan Residents Apply entry now
  • Entry Permit to Visit the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) from Taiwan (One Entry / Multiple Entries) Apply entry now
  • Pilot Scheme on Immigration Facilitation for Visitors Participating in Short-term Activities in Designated Sectors  
  • Pilot Scheme on Facilitation for Persons Participating in Arbitral Proceedings in Hong Kong  

tourist visa immigration department

tourist visa immigration department

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tourist visa immigration department

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  • For International Visitors
  • Visa Waiver Program

Requirements for Immigrant and Nonimmigrant Visas

There are two categories of U.S. visas: immigrant and nonimmigrant. Immigrant visas are issued to foreign nationals who intend to live permanently in the United States. Nonimmigrant visas are for foreign nationals wishing to enter the United States on a temporary basis - for tourism, medical treatment, business, temporary work, study, or other similar reasons.  

Immigrant Visa

An immigrant visa is issued to a foreign national who intends to live and work permanently in the United States. In most cases, a relative or employer sponsors the individual by filing an application with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Certain applicants such as workers with extraordinary ability, investors, and certain special immigrants can petition on their own behalf. The application is later forwarded to the appropriate U.S. Consulate or Embassy overseas for continued processing and issuance of the immigrant visa to the intending immigrant, if eligible. An intending immigrant must present the immigrant visa at a U.S. port-of-entry prior to the expiration of the immigrant visa. An intending immigrant becomes a lawful permanent resident once the immigrant visa and accompanying paperwork is reviewed and endorsed by a CBP Officer. For specific information regarding immigrant visa classifications and requirements, refer to the USCIS website or the Department of State website.  

Non-Immigrant Visa

Nonimmigrant visas are issued to foreign nationals seeking to enter the United States on a temporary basis for tourism, business, medical treatment and certain types of temporary work. The type of nonimmigrant visa needed is defined by immigration law, and related to the purpose of the travel. Generally, an individual applies directly to the U.S. consulate or embassy abroad for a tourist (B-2) or business nonimmigrant (B-1) visa. However, foreign nationals seeking to enter the United States to study or work may require certain authorization and documentation prior to applying for a nonimmigrant visa. For an alphabetical listing all of the nonimmigrant visa classifications and specific requirements refer to the USCIS website. or the U.S. Department of State website.

Issuance of a visa does not guarantee entry to the United States. A visa simply indicates that a U.S. consular officer at an American embassy or consulate has reviewed the application and that officer has determined that the individual is eligible to enter the country for a specific purpose. The CBP Officer at the port-of-entry will conduct an inspection to determine if the individual is eligible for admission under U.S. immigration law.  

Visa Free Travel

U.S. policy permits citizens of certain countries as identified below to travel to the United States without a visa. The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) permits nationals from designated countries to apply for admission to the United States for 90 days or less as nonimmigrant visitors for business or pleasure without first obtaining a U.S. nonimmigrant visa.

At the time of application for admission, a VWP applicant must:

Be in possession of a round-trip ticket that will transport the individual out of the United States to any other foreign port or place as long as the trip does not terminate in contiguous territory or an ; except that the round trip ticket may transport the traveler to contiguous territory or an , if the traveler is a resident of the country of destination or if arriving at a land border, provide evidence of financial solvency and a domicile abroad to which the traveler intends to return;

  • Be arriving on designated carrier that is signatory to a Visa Waiver Program Agreement, if applicable;
  • Have a machine-readable passport valid for 6 months beyond the period of intended stay, or essentially 9 months (90 days + 6 months). The Department of State's 6-month list extending the validity of certain foreign passports can be found on the Department of State website. (A traveler with an expired passport is ineligible for VWP admission); and,
  • Complete an Arrival/Departure Form I-94W. Travelers arriving at a land border will be required to pay the required Form I-94W processing fee.

In addition, VWP visitors may not file an application to change status to an immigrant or another nonimmigrant classification or extend their stay beyond the 90-day timeframe. VWP applicants waive their right to proceedings before an Immigration Judge, unless they make an asylum application.  

Visa Waiver Program Frequently Asked Questions

For additional information about the Visa Waiver Program, refer to the Department of State website.

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Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan

With regards to visa inquiries, you can contact “Foreign Residents Support Center (FRESC) MOFA Visa Information” or “the Japan Visa Information Hotline” listed on the website of the Embassy or Consulate General of Japan. Due to the complex nature of visa requirements, we are UNABLE to respond to visa-related inquiries made through this website at the moment. We advise you to contact the Consular Section of the Embassy or Consulate General of Japan nearest you for more information and advice.

If you are a foreign national, please click the links below for specific information related to respective subjects.

1. Visa Application Procedures

2. about visa.

  • 3. Visa Application Documents

4. Frequently Asked Questions

5. announcements.

  • 6. Inquiries Concerning Visas
  • Be aware of fraudulent website, social media, emails in an attempt to extract payments from visa applicants (July 5, 2017)

Short-Term Stay

(A stay of up to 90 days for tourism, business, visiting friends or relatives, etc. that does not include remunerative activities)

Click on the nationality of the visa applicant traveling to Japan.

China

Visa exemption arrangements have been resumed from 0:00 am (JST) on October 11, 2022.

It is highly recommended to purchase international travel medical insurance for your trip to Japan. Overseas travel medical insurance helps you in case of emergency.

Work or Long-Term Stay

(A stay during which the applicant performs remunerative work in Japan or a stay of over 90 days in Japan, etc.)

  • Procedures chart for long-term stays
  • The Working Holiday Programmes in Japan
  • Japan’s Pre-Entry Tuberculosis Screening

Visa for Medical Stay

Visa exemptions for diplomatic and official passport holders.

  • Points to Note and Application Procedures
  • Visa Processing Time
  • Validity of a Visa
  • Criteria of Visa Issuance
  • Visas and Landing Permission

3. Visa Application Documents (download)

  • (Note1) Refer to [1. Visa Application Procedures] for details of documents required.
  • (Note3) Visa application forms that are not in the QR code (PDF) format cannot be saved. Please print a paper copy of the Visa application.
  • Visa application form
  • Tell me why you rejected my visa application.
  • I want to go to Japan. Do I need a visa?
  • I want to invite a foreign national to Japan. What procedures are necessary?
  • What should I do to get a Certificate of Eligibility?
  • The Certificate of Eligibility will not arrive by the time I apply for a visa. Can I still apply for a visa with its copy?
  • As a “guarantor”, to what extent do I need to be responsible?

Newly introduced visas

  • Special highly skilled professional (J-Skip)
  • Designated activities (Future creation individual, Spouse or Child of future creation individual) (J-Find)

Review on restrictions on new entry of foreign nationals into Japan

  • Application for Visa for foreign nationals eligible for Phased Measures toward Resuming Cross-Border Travel
  • Border measures to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19)

Statistics for the Number of Visas

  • Number of Visas Issued in 2021(May 31,2022)

Relaxation of Visa Requirements

  • Visa Waiver Measure for Nationals of the Federative Republic of Brazil in Possession of Ordinary Passports(September 30, 2023)
  • Signing of the Japan-Israel Working Holiday Agreement (April 28, 2023)
  • Visa Waiver Measure for Nationals of the State of Qatar based on Ordinary Passport Registration System (April 2, 2023)
  • Visa Waiver Measure for Nationals of the United Arab Emirates in Possession of Ordinary Passports (November 1, 2022)
  • Japan’s Pre-Entry Tuberculosis Screening (April 3, 2020)
  • Japan's Visa Policy in Accordance with Measures to Combat Trafficking in Persons (February 2009)

6. Inquiries about Visas Application

Foreign Residents Support Center (FRESC) MOFA Visa Information

Yotsuya Tower 13F, 1-6-1 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0004 Navi-Dial: 0570-011000 (For some IP phones and calls from overseas, please call +81-3-5369-6577) Monday to Friday, 09:00-17:00

Related Links

  • Websites of Japanese Embassies, Consulates and Permanent Missions

JAPAN eVISA

tourist visa immigration department

Fiji Immigration

Our Visa division is responsible for the processing and issuing of pre-entry visas to eligible persons who are national of countries enacted and categorized as Non-Visa Exempted countries. Visa is a pre entry authority issued to a non citizen passport holder from non visa exempted countries that authorizes the passport holder, to travel from his/her country or any destination country outside of Fiji to Fiji’s borders. A visa does not give automatic entry rights into Fiji for the holder.

All Visa applications are considered on merit and on a case by case basis. Visa may be granted to a non citizen if for visiting friends/families, for holiday, business purposes, transit purposes for more than three hours or for joining a vessel as crew or passenger. Visa may also be granted to a representative of a foreign government and his/her relative.

The visa applications can be directly lodged at any Fijian Immigration Department office located in Suva, Nadi, Lautoka, Savusavu, Levuka, Labasa and Rotuma or through the nearest Fiji High Commission and Embassy offices stationed abroad. Visa applications can also be lodged through faxing or posting addressing to the Visa Processing Officer.

1. Governing Laws

The following law governs the procedure and processes of the Visa:

  • PART 3 Section 7 of the Immigration Act 2003;
  • PART 2 Sections 3, 4, 5 & 6 of the Immigration Regulations 2007.

2. Visa Types

2.1 Single Entry Visa (SEV)

This visa is valid for 3 months and can be used for a single journey to Fiji only.

2.2 Multiple Entry Visa (MEV)

This visa is valid for multiple entries to Fiji for a period of 12 months from the date of issue. The duration of stay for each entry should not exceed 4 months.

3. Visa Application Requirements

  • HOLIDAY PURPOSE   (FAMILY/FRIENDS/HOTEL)
  • Visitors Visa Application form
  • Certified Copy of the Passport (Bio data page)
  • Two (02) recent passport size photos
  • Confirmation of pre-booked hotel (If accommodated at hotel
  • Local Sponsor letter (if accommodated with family/friends)
  • A copy of the travel itinerary/ticket
  • Proof of funds to sustain duration of stay (e.g. recent Bank Statement/visa Cards)
  • Copy of Sponsor Valid I.D/Passport/ Permit
  • Proof of approved visa and onward ticket[if applicant is travelling to another country needing visa)
  • Consent letter from spouse (if travelling alone)
  • Consent letter from parents (for 18 years and under) and travelling alone
  • Leave letter is approved
  • TRANSITTING PURPOSE
  • Proof of approved visa/permit for the next destination
  • Proof of onward ticket to the next destination and another outward ticket if travelling out of that destination.
  • Certified Copy of Passport
  • Two (02) passport size photos
  • BUSINESS/TRAINING/WORKSHOP PURPOSE
  • Two (02) certified photos
  • Sponsor letter if  local company/organization is sponsoring to indicate the undertaking person for the duration of his period)
  • FISHING AGENCIES (CREW / SEAMAN)
  • Letter from the organization
  • Certified Copy of itinerary/ticket if joining vessel in another destination

SINGLE  ENTRY  FEES  – $91.00

MULTIPLE ENTRY FEES – $180.00

4. Processing Time

It takes 3 working days to process visa applications from the date of receipt by the Visa Officer. The delay in processing may occur when the applications submitted are incomplete or further clarification, additional documentation or verification of documents are required.

5. Notification of Visa Approval or Refusal

The Visa’s are endorsed on the passport or in cases where passport is not submitted, a visa approval letter is sent to the successful applicant notifying the approval of the visa, validity of the visa and duration of the stay in Fiji. If the visa application is unsuccessful, the applicant is notified in writing of the refusal of visa application and justified reasons for refusal.

Fiji Immigration Department

We offer a range of visas to help those who can contribute to Fiji, visit, work, study, live or invest here.

  • 969 Rodwell Rd, Suva
  • +679 331 2622
  • [email protected]

Quick Links

  • Privacy Policy

Travel Requirements

  • Entering Fiji
  • Departing Fiji
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Nonimmigrant and tourist visas

Find out how to work in the U.S. or visit as a student or tourist. Learn how to renew your visa and what to do if your visa is lost.

How to apply for or renew a U.S. tourist visa

If you visit the U.S. for tourism or business, you may need a visitor visa, also known as a tourist visa. Learn how to get and renew this type of nonimmigrant visa.

How to check the status of your visa application

Find out how to check the status of your visa application online. And to avoid delays, learn how to update your address if you move while waiting for your visa to be approved.

What happens if your visa application is rejected

Find out what to do if your visa is denied, and learn if you are eligible for a waiver of grounds of inadmissibility.

Foreign visitors: what to do if your visa or passport is lost or stolen

If you are in the U.S. and your visa or passport was lost or stolen, learn how to report it and apply for a new one.

Get a student visa to study in the U.S.

To study in the U.S. as an international student, you must get a student visa. Learn about the types of student visas, how to apply, and if you can work while you study.

Nonimmigrant work visas

Learn about the different nonimmigrant temporary work visa categories and how to apply.

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You can find more information on visa and citizenship services on our immigration and citizenship site. Check the links below to find what you're looking for, or visit immi.homeaffairs.gov.au

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Latest changes to overseas dependents coming to the UK

11 March 2024

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From today (Monday 11 March 2024), overseas care workers and senior care workers coming to the UK will no longer be able to bring dependants with them as part of their visa application. 

These changes mean that any new visa applications from this date onwards will no longer be able to include dependents. 

Dependants of individuals who wish to travel to the UK as care workers or senior care workers will now need to look for an alternative route, for example, applying for a separate visa and obtaining their own sponsorship. 

Care workers and senior care workers already in the route will be able to remain with their dependants, including extending, changing employer (within these SOC codes) and settlement.

Where a care worker or senior care worker is in the route prior to the immigration rules change, but has not yet brought dependants, they will be allowed to bring dependants during their sponsorship (on this visa).

Details can be found on the .GOV website .

More information on the immigration changes which are being rolled out throughout the year are available on our  immigration policy changes page.

We will keep our immigration policy webpage up to date with any new developments.

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The Home Office has announced a timeline for when immigration policy changes will come into effect.

31 January 2024

Impacts of the changes to the UK immigration policy

Learn more on UK immigration policy for those on a Health and Care Visa or Skilled Worker Visa.

26 February 2024

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Recording of primary sponsorship now live in ESR

Updates to ESR now mean that Employers can record primary sponsorship as required under immigration rules.

4 March 2024

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The Visa Bulletin

Visa Statistics

Laws & Regulations

Visa Bulletin For April 2024

Number 88 Volume X Washington, D.C

View as Printer Friendly PDF

A. STATUTORY NUMBERS FOR PREFERENCE IMMIGRANT VISAS

This bulletin summarizes the availability of immigrant numbers during April  for: “Final Action Dates” and “Dates for Filing Applications,” indicating when immigrant visa applicants should be notified to assemble and submit required documentation to the National Visa Center.

Unless otherwise indicated on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website at  www.uscis.gov/visabulletininfo , individuals seeking to file applications for adjustment of status with USCIS must use the “Final Action Dates” charts below for determining when they can file such applications. When USCIS determines that there are more immigrant visas available for the fiscal year than there are known applicants for such visas, USCIS will state on its website that applicants may instead use the “Dates for Filing Visa Applications” charts in this Bulletin. 

1.  Procedures for determining dates. Consular officers are required to report to the Department of State documentarily qualified applicants for numerically limited visas; USCIS reports applicants for adjustment of status. Allocations in the charts below were made, to the extent possible, in chronological order of reported priority dates, for demand received by March 4th . If not all demand could be satisfied, the category or foreign state in which demand was excessive was deemed oversubscribed. The final action date for an oversubscribed category is the priority date of the first applicant who could not be reached within the numerical limits. If it becomes necessary during the monthly allocation process to retrogress a final action date, supplemental requests for numbers will be honored only if the priority date falls within the new final action date announced in this bulletin. If at any time an annual limit were reached, it would be necessary to immediately make the preference category “unavailable”, and no further requests for numbers would be honored.

2.  The fiscal year 2024 limit for family-sponsored preference immigrants determined in accordance with Section 201 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) is 226,000.  The worldwide level for annual employment-based preference immigrants is at least 140,000.  Section 202 prescribes that the per-country limit for preference immigrants is set at 7% of the total annual family-sponsored and employment-based preference limits, i.e., 25,620.  The dependent area limit is set at 2%, or 7,320.

3.  INA Section 203(e) provides that family-sponsored and employment-based preference visas be issued to eligible immigrants in the order in which a petition in behalf of each has been filed. Section 203(d) provides that spouses and children of preference immigrants are entitled to the same status, and the same order of consideration, if accompanying or following to join the principal. The visa prorating provisions of Section 202(e) apply to allocations for a foreign state or dependent area when visa issuances will exceed the per-country limit. These provisions apply at present to the following oversubscribed chargeability areas:  CHINA-mainland born, INDIA, MEXICO, and PHILIPPINES. 

4.  Section 203(a) of the INA prescribes preference classes for allotment of Family-sponsored immigrant visas as follows: 

FAMILY-SPONSORED PREFERENCES

First : ( F1 ) Unmarried Sons and Daughters of U.S. Citizens:  23,400 plus any numbers not required for fourth preference.

Second : Spouses and Children, and Unmarried Sons and Daughters of Permanent Residents:  114,200, plus the number (if any) by which the worldwide family preference level exceeds 226,000, plus any unused first preference numbers:

A. ( F2A ) Spouses and Children of Permanent Residents:  77% of the overall second preference limitation, of which 75% are exempt from the per-country limit;

B. ( F2B ) Unmarried Sons and Daughters (21 years of age or older) of Permanent Residents:  23% of the overall second preference limitation.

Third : ( F3 ) Married Sons and Daughters of U.S. Citizens:  23,400, plus any numbers not required by first and second preferences.

Fourth : ( F4 ) Brothers and Sisters of Adult U.S. Citizens:  65,000, plus any numbers not required by first three preferences.

A.   FINAL ACTION DATES FOR FAMILY-SPONSORED PREFERENCE CASES

On the chart below, the listing of a date for any class indicates that the class is oversubscribed (see paragraph 1); "C" means current, i.e., numbers are authorized for issuance to all qualified applicants; and "U" means unauthorized, i.e., numbers are not authorized for issuance. (NOTE: Numbers are authorized for issuance only for applicants whose priority date is earlier than the final action date listed below.)

For April, F2A numbers  EXEMPT from per-country limit  are authorized for issuance to applicants from all countries with priority dates  earlier  than 15AUG20. F2A numbers  SUBJECT to per-country limit  are authorized for issuance to applicants chargeable to all countries EXCEPT MEXICO , with priority dates beginning 15AUG20 and earlier than 08SEP20. All F2A numbers provided for MEXICO are exempt from the per-country limit.

B.  DATES FOR FILING FAMILY-SPONSORED VISA APPLICATIONS

The chart below reflects dates for filing visa applications within a timeframe justifying immediate action in the application process. Applicants for immigrant visas who have a priority date earlier than the application date in the chart below may assemble and submit required documents to the Department of State’s National Visa Center, following receipt of notification from the National Visa Center containing detailed instructions. The application date for an oversubscribed category is the priority date of the first applicant who cannot submit documentation to the National Visa Center for an immigrant visa. If a category is designated “current,” all applicants in the relevant category may file applications, regardless of priority date.

The “C” listing indicates that the category is current, and that applications may be filed regardless of the applicant’s priority date. The listing of a date for any category indicates that only applicants with a priority date which is earlier than the listed date may file their application.

Visit www.uscis.gov/visabulletininfo for information on whether USCIS has determined that this chart can be used (in lieu of the chart in paragraph 4.A.) this month for filing applications for adjustment of status with USCIS. 

5.  Section 203(b) of the INA prescribes preference classes for allotment of Employment-based immigrant visas as follows: 

EMPLOYMENT-BASED PREFERENCES

First :  Priority Workers:  28.6% of the worldwide employment-based preference level, plus any numbers not required for fourth and fifth preferences.

Second :  Members of the Professions Holding Advanced Degrees or Persons of Exceptional Ability:  28.6% of the worldwide employment-based preference level, plus any numbers not required by first preference.

Third :  Skilled Workers, Professionals, and Other Workers:  28.6% of the worldwide level, plus any numbers not required by first and second preferences, not more than 10,000 of which to "*Other Workers".

Fourth :  Certain Special Immigrants:  7.1% of the worldwide level.

Fifth :  Employment Creation:  7.1% of the worldwide level, of which 32% are reserved as follows: 20% reserved for qualified immigrants who invest in a rural area; 10% reserved for qualified immigrants who invest in a high unemployment area; and 2% reserved for qualified immigrants who invest in infrastructure projects. The remaining 68% are unreserved and are allotted for all other qualified immigrants.

A.  FINAL ACTION DATES FOR EMPLOYMENT-BASED PREFERENCE CASES

*Employment Third Preference Other Workers Category: Section 203(e) of the Nicaraguan and Central American Relief Act (NACARA) passed by Congress in November 1997, as amended by Section 1(e) of Pub. L. 105-139, provides that once the Employment Third Preference Other Worker (EW) cut-off date has reached the priority date of the latest EW petition approved prior to November 19, 1997, the 10,000 EW numbers available for a fiscal year are to be reduced by up to 5,000 annually beginning in the following fiscal year. This reduction is to be made for as long as necessary to offset adjustments under the NACARA program. Since the EW final action date reached November 19, 1997 during Fiscal Year 2001, the reduction in the EW annual limit to 5,000 began in Fiscal Year 2002. For Fiscal Year 2024 this reduction will be limited to approximately 150.

B.  DATES FOR FILING OF EMPLOYMENT-BASED VISA APPLICATIONS

The chart below reflects dates for filing visa applications within a timeframe justifying immediate action in the application process. Applicants for immigrant visas who have a priority date earlier than the application date in the chart may assemble and submit required documents to the Department of State’s National Visa Center, following receipt of notification from the National Visa Center containing detailed instructions. The application date for an oversubscribed category is the priority date of the first applicant who cannot submit documentation to the National Visa Center for an immigrant visa. If a category is designated “current,” all applicants in the relevant category may file, regardless of priority date.

Visit www.uscis.gov/visabulletininfo for information on whether USCIS has determined that this chart can be used (in lieu of the chart in paragraph 5.A.) this month for filing applications for adjustment of status with USCIS. 

B .   DIVERSITY IMMIGRANT (DV) CATEGORY FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL

Section 203(c) of the INA provides up to 55,000 immigrant visas each fiscal year to permit additional immigration opportunities for persons from countries with low admissions during the previous five years.  The NACARA stipulates that beginning with DV-99, and for as long as necessary, up to 5,000 of the 55,000 annually allocated diversity visas will be made available for use under the NACARA program.  Visa numbers made available to NACARA applicants in FY 2023 will result in reduction of the DV-2024 annual limit to approximately 54,850.  Section 5104 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024 amended the NACARA’s provisions on the Diversity Visa program such that the number of visas made available under the NDAA will be deducted from the 55,000 DVs annually allocated.  These amendments will not impact the number of diversity visas available until FY 2025.  DVs are divided among six geographic regions. No one country can receive more than seven percent of the available diversity visas in any one year.

For April , immigrant numbers in the DV category are available to qualified DV-2024 applicants chargeable to all regions/eligible countries as follows. When an allocation cut-off number is shown, visas are available only for applicants with DV regional lottery rank numbers  BELOW  the specified allocation cut-off number:

Entitlement to immigrant status in the DV category lasts only through the end of the fiscal (visa) year for which the applicant is selected in the lottery. The year of entitlement for all applicants registered for the DV-2024 program ends as of September 30, 2024. DV visas may not be issued to DV-2024 applicants after that date. Similarly, spouses and children accompanying or following to join DV-2024 principals are only entitled to derivative DV status until September 30, 2024. DV visa availability through the very end of FY-2024 cannot be taken for granted. Numbers could be exhausted prior to September 30.

C.   THE DIVERSITY (DV) IMMIGRANT CATEGORY RANK CUT-OFFS WHICH WILL APPLY IN MAY

For May , immigrant numbers in the DV category are available to qualified DV-2024 applicants chargeable to all regions/eligible countries as follows. When an allocation cut-off number is shown, visas are available only for applicants with DV regional lottery rank numbers  BELOW  the specified allocation cut-off number:

D.   SCHEDULED EXPIRATION OF THE EMPLOYMENT FOURTH PREFERENCE RELIGIOUS WORKERS (SR) CATEGORY

Pursuant to H.R. 7463, signed on March 1, 2024, the non-minister special immigrant program expires on March 22, 2024.  No SR visas may be issued overseas, or final action taken on adjustment of status cases, after midnight March 21, 2024.  Visas issued prior to that date will be valid only until March 21, 2024, and all individuals seeking admission in the non-minister special immigrant category must be admitted (repeat admitted) into the United States no later than midnight March 21, 2024. 

The SR category is listed as “Unavailable” for all countries for April.  In the event there is legislative action extending the category, it is likely it will become available effective immediately. If extended, the category will be subject to the same final action dates as the listed Employment-Based Fourth Preference categories per applicable foreign state of chargeability.

E.   VISA AVAILABILITY IN THE COMING MONTHS

FAMILY-sponsored categories (potential movement):

Worldwide dates:

F1: Up to three months F2A (excluding Mexico): Up to six months F2B: Up to ten weeks F3: Several months F4: Up to four weeks 

F1: Up to four months F2A: Up to three months F2B: Several months F3: Up to six months F4: Up to three months

Philippines:

F3: Several months F4: Several months

EMPLOYMENT-based categories: Very little to no forward movement is expected in the coming months since the final action dates for many categories advanced for April 2024.

The above final action date projections for the Family and Employment categories indicate what is likely to happen throughout Quarter Three and Quarter Four of FY24.  Readers should never assume that recent trends in final action date movements are guaranteed for the future, or that retrogressions will not be required at some point to maintain number use within the applicable annual limits.  The determination of the actual monthly final action dates is subject to fluctuations in applicant demand and other variables.  

F.   U.S. GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEE SPECIAL IMMIGRANT VISAS (SIVs)

The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024, signed into law on December 22, 2023, may affect certain current and former employees of the U.S. Government abroad applying for SIVs or adjustment of status, as described in section 101(a)(27)(D) of the INA.  This does not affect certain Iraqis and Afghans applying for SQ and SI SIVs.  Applicants should contact the consular section at which they filed their Form DS‑1884 for further information on the impact of that law on their case.

G.   FOR THE LATEST INFORMATION ON VISA PROCESSING AT U.S. EMBASSIES AND CONSULATES, PLEASE VISIT THE BUREAU OF CONSULAR AFFAIRS WEBSITE AT TRAVEL.STATE.GOV

Department of State Publication 9514

CA/VO: March 4, 2024

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