1. Determine the type of visa you need: There are several types of visas for Hong Kong, including tourist visas, business visas, student visas, and work visas. You will need to determine which type of visa you need based on the purpose of your visit.
2. Check if you are eligible: Before applying for a Hong Kong visa, make sure you are eligible. The eligibility criteria vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for.
3. Gather the required documents: The documents you need to provide will depend on the type of visa you are applying for. Generally, you will need a passport that is valid for at least six months, a completed visa application form, a recent passport-sized photo, and supporting documents such as proof of accommodation, itinerary, and financial capability. You will need to get all the documents translated if they are not written in English or Traditional Chinese, and certified with a registered certified translation company in Hong Kong.
4. Submit your application: You can apply for a Hong Kong visa either online or in person at the nearest Hong Kong immigration office or consulate. Some nationalities may be required to apply through a travel agency or visa processing center.
5. Wait for the visa to be processed: The processing time for a Hong Kong visa can vary depending on the type of visa and your nationality. Generally, it takes around four to six weeks to process a visa.
6. Receive your visa: Once your visa is approved, you will receive it by mail or in person if you applied in person.

It is important to note that the visa requirements and procedures may change over time, so it’s best to check with the Hong Kong immigration department or consulate for the latest information.

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Firstly, accurate personal information is essential for the visa application process to run smoothly. If you provide incorrect or incomplete information, your application may be delayed or even rejected. This can result in lost time, money, and opportunities. It’s important to take the time to review your application and make sure all the information you’ve provided is correct before submitting it. This can save you a lot of stress and hassle down the line.

In addition to ensuring a smooth application process, accurate personal information is also important for security reasons. Governments use the information provided on visa applications to conduct background checks and verify the identity of the applicant. If you provide false information, you run the risk of being flagged as a security risk and your application may be denied. This can have serious consequences, particularly if you have travel plans that depend on your visa being approved.

Providing accurate personal information can also impact your future travel plans. If you’re caught providing false information on a visa application, you may be barred from entering the country you applied to visit. This can also impact your ability to travel to other countries in the future. Some countries share information about visa applicants, which means that if you’re denied entry to one country due to false information, other countries may also refuse your application.

This is also allowing you to make the most of your time in the country you’re visiting. For example, if you provide incorrect information about the length of your stay, you may be forced to leave the country before you’re ready. This can result in lost opportunities, missed events, and a less enjoyable trip overall. It can also help ensure that you’re able to make the most of your time in the country you’re visiting without any unexpected complications.

It’s important to note that providing false information on a visa application can have legal consequences as well. Depending on the country you’re applying to visit, providing false information can be considered a criminal offense. This can result in fines, imprisonment, or even deportation. It’s never worth the risk to provide false information on a visa application. Please note that some countries require applicants to get their documents translated if not written in their language, and certified before filing, for more you may visit here for more about certified translation company.

In conclusion, providing accurate personal information is crucial when applying for a visa. It ensures a smooth application process, helps to maintain security, protects your future travel plans, and ensures that you’re able to make the most of your time in the country you’re visiting. It’s important to take the time to review your application and make sure all the information you’ve provided is correct before submitting it. If you’re unsure about any aspect of the application, it’s always best to seek professional advice to ensure that you’re providing accurate information and giving yourself the best chance of being approved for your visa.

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1. Passport: A valid passport is usually required for visa applications. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the country.
2. Visa application form: You will typically need to complete a visa application form, which may be available online or at the embassy or consulate of the country you are applying to.
3. Photographs: You may be required to provide recent passport-size photographs as part of your visa application.
4. Proof of travel arrangements: You may need to provide documentation such as flight tickets or hotel reservations to prove your travel plans.
5. Financial documents: You may need to provide proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in the country.
6. Invitation letter: If you are visiting someone or attending an event, you may need to provide an invitation letter from the person or organization hosting you.

It’s important to note that visa requirements can change, so it’s always best to hire a visa agency to work that out for you.

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1. Cost of living: Thailand generally has a lower cost of living than the Philippines, particularly in terms of housing and transportation. Food and entertainment options are also more affordable in Thailand.
2. Infrastructure: Thailand has a more developed infrastructure than the Philippines, with better roads, public transportation, and healthcare facilities.
3. Tourism industry: Thailand has a more established tourism industry than the Philippines, with a wider range of attractions and more developed infrastructure to support tourists.
4. Language barrier: English is more widely spoken in the Philippines than in Thailand, which may make it easier for foreigners to communicate and navigate daily life.
5. Cultural differences: The two countries have distinct cultures and customs, which may appeal to different types of people.

Ultimately, the decision to choose one country over the other will depend on individual preferences and priorities. Both Thailand and the Philippines offer unique experiences and opportunities, and it’s up to each person to decide which country is the best fit for them.

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1. Affordable cost of living: Thailand is a paradise for those looking for a more affordable lifestyle. Accommodation, food, and transportation are all relatively inexpensive, which means you can enjoy a comfortable life without breaking the bank.
2. High quality of life: Despite its lower cost of living, Thailand offers a high standard of living with access to modern amenities, such as world-class healthcare facilities, international schools, and high-speed internet. You can enjoy the best of both worlds – a great quality of life without sacrificing your budget.
3. Warm and friendly people: Thai people are known for their warm and welcoming nature, and many people enjoy the friendly and laid-back atmosphere of Thai society. You’ll feel right at home in no time, surrounded by the smiling faces and kind hearts of the Thai people.
4. Beautiful natural scenery: Thailand is a land of natural beauty, from the pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters to the lush forests and majestic mountains. You can explore the stunning landscapes, soak up the sunshine, and experience the wonders of nature in all their glory.
5. Rich culture and history: Thailand has a rich cultural heritage that is deeply ingrained in everyday life. From ancient temples and historic landmarks to colorful festivals and traditional customs, Thailand offers a wealth of cultural experiences that can be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and discover the fascinating history of this amazing country.
6. Business opportunities: Thailand is a land of opportunity, with a rapidly growing economy and many opportunities for entrepreneurs and businesses. Located in the heart of Southeast Asia, Thailand offers a gateway to other markets in the region. So, whether you’re starting a new business or expanding an existing one, Thailand is the perfect place to grow and thrive.

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1. Affordable cost of living: Thailand offers a lower cost of living compared to many Western countries, making it an attractive option for people seeking a more affordable lifestyle. Accommodation, food, and transportation are all relatively inexpensive, which can allow people to live comfortably on a modest income.
2. Beautiful natural scenery: Thailand is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, from pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters to lush forests and majestic mountains. Many people are drawn to Thailand’s beautiful landscapes and enjoy exploring the country’s natural wonders.
3. Rich culture and history: Thailand has a rich cultural heritage that is deeply ingrained in everyday life. From ancient temples and historic landmarks to colorful festivals and traditional customs, Thailand offers a wealth of cultural experiences that can be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.
4. Warm and friendly people: The people of Thailand are known for their warm and friendly nature, and many people enjoy the welcoming and hospitable atmosphere of Thai society. Whether you’re in the bustling city or a small rural village, you’re likely to be greeted with smiles and kindness.
5. Delicious cuisine: Thai cuisine is renowned around the world for its delicious flavors and unique combinations of sweet, sour, spicy, and salty. With a wide variety of dishes to choose from, Thai cuisine offers a culinary experience that is sure to delight your taste buds.

Overall, Thailand offers a unique and attractive lifestyle for those seeking a more affordable, culturally rich, and natural way of life. It’s no wonder that so many people have chosen to call Thailand their home.

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First and foremost, Thailand boasts a rich and vibrant culture that is both fascinating and beautiful. With its stunning temples, colorful festivals, and unique traditions, there is always something new and exciting to discover in Thailand.

And let’s not forget about the breathtaking natural scenery! From pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters to lush forests and stunning mountains, Thailand is a paradise for nature lovers. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun on a tropical island or trek through the jungle, Thailand has it all.

Of course, one cannot talk about Thailand without mentioning its mouth-watering cuisine. Thai food is renowned worldwide for its delicious flavors and unique combinations of sweet, sour, spicy, and salty. From street food to high-end restaurants, Thailand offers a culinary experience that is not to be missed.

And the best part? Thailand is incredibly affordable! Whether you’re on a tight budget or looking to splurge, you’ll find that Thailand offers incredible value for your money. From affordable accommodation to delicious street food, Thailand won’t break the bank.

Last but certainly not least, the people of Thailand are some of the friendliest and most hospitable you’ll ever meet. Whether you’re in the bustling city of Bangkok or the quiet countryside, you’ll be greeted with warm smiles and open arms.

So what are you waiting for? Come and experience the magic of Thailand for yourself – you won’t be disappointed!

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A US work permit can be of two types:

• Permanent US work permit
• Nonimmigrant visa US permit

This article will go through the nonimmigrant visa work permit and its details.

What is an EAD Card?

The EAD card, otherwise known as a work permit, is a document issued by USCIS that grants temporary employment authorization to foreigners in the United States. When you get an approved EAD, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) sends you thea card. The card looks like a regular ID card as in the sample below, but gives you permission to legally work in the US

The EAD is like a driver’s license for work. When you show your driver’s license, the authorities know you have permission to drive. With the EAD employers know you have permission to work in the US.

If you already have a nonimmigrant visa but do not have an EAD, then any employer will not let you start working. Working without a valid EAD could lead to USCIS revoking your visa or you could get deported.

What Are the Requirements for an Employment Authorization Document?

To be eligible to get an EAD, you must fulfill a few criteria. The requirements and criteria are in the EAD Instructions in the USCIS website. As an overview, you must be in these categories to apply for the EAD:

• Asylee or Refugee and their dependents (spouse and children)
• Certain nationalities
• International students (such as F-1 visa or M-1 visa student)
• Eligible Dependents of Employees from International Organizations, Diplomatic Missions, or NATO
• Employment-Based Nonimmigrant (such as spouses of L-1 visa, or E-1 visa)
• Family Based Nonimmigrant (such as fiancé visa, or K-3 visa dependent)
• EAD applicant who has filed for an Adjustment of Status (you have applied for a Green Card)

The EAD instruction form has an in-depth description of each category. You must read the instructions to see which category you are in. Making mistakes on the category might lead to a rejection of your EAD.

The EAD is only for those who have a US nonimmigrant visa. If you have an immigrant visa or Green Card, you do not need an EAD. Your Green Card serves as a work permit and allows you to work.

How to Apply for an EAD?

To complete the EAD application, there are a few steps which you must follow, as outlined below.

Step 1: File Form I-765

Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization is the main form for the EAD. It is available on the USCIS website and you must download it to start filling it out. Download the form right before you start applying because USCIS frequently makes changes.

The form will have space for you to provide your personal information and answer questions for your category. These questions will also determine the documents you will have to provide.

Step 2: Attach supporting documents

The documents you will attach will be proof that you are eligible for an EAD. Each one of the categories will need extensive documentation. Through them you must prove your status in the US, qualifications, and other evidence. You must attach them to the original Form I-765 which you will submit to USCIS. Examples of documents you must attach are as follows:

• A copy of the front and back of Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record
• A copy of your last EAD. If you did not have an EAD before, you must submit a copy of a government issued ID such as a passport. The document must have your name, date of birth, and picture.
• Two identical passport-style photos of yourself. The photos must be within the last 30 days of you applying. You must print your name and Alien Receipt Number lightly on the back of each photo.

USCIS will ask for other documents based on your category. You do not need to attach supporting documents if you are applying for an adjustment of status. USCIS will already have the information on their system if you are in that situation. Otherwise, supporting documents are mandatory.

Step 3: Attach the fee receipts

In the sections below on the cost of the EAD, we will go through how much the work permit costs and how to pay the fee. Regardless of that, you must attach proof of payment to the application. USCIS will not process your EAD if you do not prove you have paid their fees for filing and biometrics.

Step 4: Submit the application

After you have compiled your whole file, you can submit the EAD application to USCIS. There are two ways to file it:

• By mail
• Online through e-filing

If you submit by mail, you must check the address carefully. Different states and categories have different USCIS locations so make sure to send it to the right one.

If you submit through e-filing, then you can fill in Form I-765 online and send it to USCIS. But, even if you apply online, you must mail your supporting documents.

Before you submit, remember to make a copy of the documents for yourself. You might need them later if you apply for a renewal or if you lose any of the information.

What is the EAD Card Processing Time?

EAD processing usually takes around 60 to 90 days. USCIS will then send a notice whether they approved your EAD or not.

If they approve your application, then they will mail the EAD card to you. If they deny your EAD, you will get a notice telling you the reasons why you were not an eligible candidate.

How Much Does the EAD Cost?

The EAD application fees are in two parts:

• The filing fee which is $410
• The biometrics fee which is $85

So together, the EAD application will cost you $495. You can pay this fee through money order or check if applying by mail. If you apply online, they will also accept debit or credit cards. You cannot pay by cash though.

There are some categories which are exempt from the filing fee. These are:

• Asylees, Refugees or those Paroled as Refugees
• N-8 or N-9 nonimmigrants
• Citizens of Micronesia, Palau, or the Marshall Islands
• Those Granted Withholding of Deportation
• Victims of Severe Forms of Trafficking
• U-1 Nonimmigrants
• Those dependent of an international organization, foreign government, or NATO personnel
• Applicants for Asylum
• VAWA Self-petitioners

Also, if you are not in one of these categories, you can request a fee waiver from USCIS. You can file a waiver if you are in this situation:

• If you are eligible to file Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver. You can check the instructions in the USCIS website to see if you qualify.
• You have supporting documentation to attach to the form that proves the following:
  • You or someone living with you is currently receiving a means-tested benefit
  • Your annual household income is below the 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines at the time of your filing
  • You are experiencing financial hardships which do not allow you to pay the fees. Financial hardships can be if you have unexpected medical bills or emergencies.

You can prove you are in a means-tested benefit program if you are in programs such as:

• Medicaid
• Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF)
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP or food stamps)
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Some examples of programs that do not qualify as means-tested are:

• Medicare
• Social Security benefits
• Unemployment benefits
• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
• Student financial aid/grants/loans
• Retirement, Survivors and Disability Insurance (RSDI)

As for the biometrics fee, there are only three categories of people who must pay it. These are:

• Those requesting consideration for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
• Those who have approval for an employment based immigrant petition and have compelling circumstances
• Spouses or unmarried dependent children of beneficiaries who have approval for an employment based immigrant petition with compelling circumstances

Other categories are not required to pay the biometrics fee.

How Long is the EAD Valid?

After you get your EAD and start working, it is valid usually for 1 year. When the EAD is close to expiring, you must file a renewal within 180 days of it expiry. Depending on the type of visa you have, you can renew the EAD only one time or many times.

What if the EAD Has Incorrect Information On It?

If USCIS has issued your EAD but it has some incorrect information on it, you can file to have it corrected.

If the mistake was not due to a USCIS error, you must submit these documents:

• A new Form I-765
• The filing fees
• Supporting documents
• The card which has the mistake

If the mistake was due to USCIS error, then you do not need to submit a new Form I-765 or pay any new filing fees. You must submit:

• The card which has the mistake
• An explanation of the mistake
• Supporting documents which prove the correct information

What Kind of Health Insurance Am I Eligible For?

The type of  health insurance you are eligible for as a temporary worker in the United States depends on how long you will be staying in the US. Here are the types of plans available to foreign workers:

• Short-term insurance
• Long-term (domestic) insurance

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The program is administered by the Department of Homeland Security and was created to improve security for the people who visit the United States and also so that US citizens can travel to the other 40 countries freely. It brings mutual benefits and most importantly, makes traveling a lot safer.

If you fulfill the necessary criteria and you are from countries with which the US has good relationships with, you will not need to apply for a visa. The only document you will need to go into the US is the stamp on your passport which states that you are part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).

What Are the 40 Visa Waiver Countries?

The 40 Visa Waiver Countries are the following:

Do I Qualify to Travel to the United States Under the Visa Waiver Program?

In order to qualify for the US Visa Waiver Program, you must fulfill the following criteria:

• Be a citizen of the 40 allowed countries.
• Have a visa waiver ESTA approval.
• Have an e-passport.
• Prove that you will return to your home country after your VWP stamp expires.

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an electronic program that the US has developed to make applying for the Visa Waiver much faster. The only step you need to take is go to its website and enter your personal information and you will get a response on whether you qualify for the Visa Waiver or not

The e-passport is a document which you need in order to apply for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) under the VWP. The e-passport is different from regular passports in two ways:

• It is Machine Readable, which means that in the page with your personal information, there are also various number at the bottom (See Picture 1 below)
• It has chip and it is distinguished by a symbol in the front cover (See Picture 2 below)

IMPORTANT: Changes to the Visa Waiver Program in 2016

In 2016, the US Department of Homeland Security started implementing a change in the Visa Waiver Program under the “Visa Waiver Program Improvement and Terrorist Travel Prevention Act of 2015”. Since then, certain travelers would no longer be eligible to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program.

The following groups of people are affected by that change:

• Nationals of visa waiver countries who have been in Iran, Iraq, Sudan, Syria, Libya, Somalia or Yemen since March 01, 2011. It should be noted that there are some exceptions for diplomats and military personnel.
• Nationals of visa waiver countries who also hold a nationality of Iran, Iraq, Sudan, or Syria.

Starting on August 06, 2019, travelers who have visited North Korea after March 01, 2011 will not be eligible for to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program.

What Documents Do I Need to Travel under the Visa Waiver USA?

The only documents you need to have to get the Visa Waiver stamp on your passport is the ESTA approval and the e-Passport. Your e-Passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your planned departure from the US.

After you get the Electronic System for Travel Authorization approval, you can start making travel arrangements to the United States.

Benefits and Limitations of Travelling Under the VWP

The benefits of the Visa Waiver Program are many. You will not be required to apply for a visa, which takes time, effort, and a lot of documents. With minimal effort on a computer, you can get approved for the VWP and be on your way to making your travel arrangements for the US. You will avoid the long processing times too, so if you are travelling for business and need to be in the US as soon as possible, you can do so with the VWP.

Additionally, if you enter the United States with a VWP, you can also visit Canada, Mexico and other nearby islands for the time that your VWP is valid. So if you reenter the United States during the timeframe that the VWP is valid, you will not have any problems. You are not allowed to do so with other visas.

Things you are allowed to do with the Visa Waiver Program

With the VWP you are allowed to go into the US for these activities only:

• Negotiate contracts
• Consult with business associates in the United States
• Settle estates
• Attend conferences, educational, professional, or business events
• Have a vacation in the US
• Tour various cities in the US
• Visit friends or family
• Participate in social events hosted by various organizations
• Visit the country for medical treatments
• Participate in events or contests related to music or sports, for which you will not receive payment
• Enroll in short study courses for which you will not receive credit (ex. cooking classes)

Things you are not allowed to do with a Visa Waiver Program

However, you are not allowed to travel with these activities in mind:

• Become a full or part time student
• Perform and get paid for it
• Work in press or journalism
• Engage in any form of employment
• Enter as a crewmember on an aircraft or ship
• Seek permanent residence in the United States

What if I cannot get a Visa Waiver?

If for any reason, you are not eligible for a Visa Waiver or have had you Electronic System for Travel Authorization application denied, then you have one other option. You can apply for a regular US visa, such as the B1/B2 visa. If you are denied the visa too, then you have to check your eligibility and make sure that you qualify for a visa to the US. You will save much more time by applying for the B1 visa or the B2 visa.

Another instance where you cannot get a Visa Waiver is if you are travelling on a non-VWP approved air or sea carrier or a private aircraft.

Can I get a Green Card on an American Visa Waiver?

The Visa Waiver only gives you the right to enter the United States for tourism or business and stay for a maximum of 90 days. Additionally, you have to prove that you will return to your home country. Because of this, it is very difficult, if not impossible to get a Green Card while on a Visa Waiver.

The only possible ways to get permanent residence is if you have family in the United States and you apply to join them, or if you marry a US citizen. Even if you find a job in the US, you will not be able to change your status to a different visa which allows you dual intent.

Can I bring my dependents with a USA Visa Waiver?

Each Visa Waiver that is given is individual and does not apply to a group of people. So if you and your family, such as spouse and children want to travel to the United States together, you must each be eligible for the Visa Waiver and get one for each member.

Even toddlers must fulfill the criteria for the Visa Waiver and must have a valid passport to be able to get the Visa Waiver. Therefore, you cannot bring your dependents to the United States with only one Visa Waiver, but must get one for each individual.

Do I Need to Obtain Health Insurance as a Visitor in the United States?

No. Purchasing health insurance is not a requirement of the  authorities to visit the United States . However, due to the high costs of the American healthcare system you are strongly advised to get health insurance before traveling to the United States.

For instance, the treatment of a broken leg or broken arm will cost you $2,500, while staying at a US hospital for one night may cost over $10,000, on average.

How Does a Country Join the Visa Waiver Program?

To become part of the Visa Waiver Program, a country must meet these conditions:

• Issue e-passports.
• Have enhanced law enforcement and security data sharing with the United States.
• Report stolen and lost passports.
• Have a less than 3% refusal rate of B visas.
• Have good counterterrorism, border control, law enforcement, and other security standards.

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You must pay fees for US nonimmigrant visas, US immigrant visas, as well as for the US diversity visa. These are application fees, while other costs include reciprocity fees. Reciprocity fees are costs that other countries have to pay depending on the relationship they have with the US, and vice versa when someone applies for visas.

US Nonimmigrant Visa Application Fees

There are many types of US nonimmigrant visas and this means that there are also different fees for it. To have a better sense of how much these visa application fees are, they could be divided into non-petition based visas and petition based visas.

The costs for a non-immigrant visa are as follows:

Fees for non-petition and petition based visas

Non-petition based visas are those that do not require an employer or someone from the US to petition for a person who wants to temporarily live in the US. The applicant can simply submit Form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application and follow the usual steps of paying the fees, scheduling the interview, submitting supporting documents, and attending their interview.

Petition-based visas are those that require an employer or someone from the US to petition for the applicant who wants to temporarily live and work in the US. Before the applicant can submit their Form DS-160, the employer must first submit a petition to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the US Department of State, or the US Homeland Department. The petitioner must also pay a fee for the petition, which can vary depending on the visa.

Here are the application fees for each US nonimmigrant visa:

Besides the petition and non-petition based non-immigrant visas, there also other categories and fees that must be paid such as:

• For the Border Crossing Card for Mexican Citizens, the application fee for applicants over 15 years old is 160.00 USD, while for those under 15 years old, it is 16.00 USD.
• For petitioners for the L visas, there is also a fee of 500.00 USD for fraud detection and prevention
• For petitioners for H visas, there is a fee of 4,500.00 USD for petitioning to the US institutions to bring a foreign temporary worker to the US.

How to Pay a US Visa Fee?

Usually, you’re required to pay a US visa fee when you visit the embassy or consulate for your interview in your home country. Each foreign embassy and consulate may have its own guidelines on how to proceed with the payment of your visa, but you can usually pay the fee in cash or with a debit or credit card. In most cases, personal checks are not accepted.

When are fees not necessary for US nonimmigrant visas?

There are also instances where you do not have to pay a fee and that is in these situations:

• When you apply for A, G, C-2, C-3, NATO, and diplomatic visas.
• For a J visa applicant sponsored by the US government.
• To replace a machine-readable visa when the original visa was not well stamped and it was not the applicant’s fault.
• For applicants who are part of international agreements such as members of staff of the UN Headquarters and their families.
• For applicants traveling for charity purposes.
• For US government employees traveling for official business.
• For parents, siblings, spouse, and children of a US government employee who was killed in the line of duty, and the family is traveling to attend the funeral or burial.

US Nonimmigrant Visa Reciprocity Fees

Another factor which determines how much is a visa to the USA for the nonimmigrant category are the reciprocity fees. These fees are for issuing the visa and for border crossing cards. However, immigrant visas do not have reciprocity fees, but only non-immigrant visas do.

Reciprocity fees depend on the country you are currently residing and applying from, as well as the passport that you have. This fee must be paid before you get your passport back from the US Embassy.

There are situations when an applicant does not have to pay a reciprocity fee and that happens if the applicant is:

• Part of international agreements such as members of staff of the UN Headquarters or the UN General Assembly, and their families.
• Transiting to the UN Headquarters.
• Part of a US government sponsored program and their spouse and children.
• Traveling for charity purposes.

US Immigrant Visa Fees

The US immigrant visas are those that allow a person to stay permanently in the US where they can live and work. The fees for the immigrant visas are for petitions as well as processing fees.

The fees for the petitions are as follows:

• Form I-130, Immigrant Petition for Relative costs 535.00 USD
• Form I-600 or Form I-800, Orphan Immediate Relative Petition costs 775.00 USD

As for processing fees, they depend on the type of visa which you are applying for, and are as follows:

• Immediate Relative or Family Preference Immigration Applications cost 325.00 USD in addition to the petition
• Employment-Based Immigration Applications cost 345.00 USD in addition to the petition
• Other immigration applications (such as self-petitioning) cost 205.00 USD
• K visa for a fiancé or spouse of a US citizen costs 265.00 USD
• Certain Afghan or Iraqi special immigrant applications have no fee

Another common fee for most immigrant visas is the Affidavit of Support, which costs 120.00 USD. The fee is paid from US citizen sponsors who can guarantee that they will support the applicant financially until they settle down and can work within the US.

US Diversity Visa Fees

The US Diversity Visa or Lottery is for those who want to try out their luck and see if they can get selected for a US immigrant visa by chance. The applicants sign up each period and the US institutions decide on how many winners of the visa to select annually. The usual period for signing up is during November and applications are then reviewed during the year.

There are not many fees for the diversity visa except for the application or sign-up fee. This fee is 330.00 USD and must be paid before submitting the application online.

Note: These fees are as of January 2018 and are subject to change. For more accurate information on updated, please consult with the US Department of State, US Citizenship and Immigration Services, or the US Homeland Department. Additionally, please review any instructions you obtain from the US Embassy or Consulate you are applying from.

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