There are some documents that the embassy or consulate of the US requires from every applicant no matter what kind of visa they wish to obtain. Be careful to have all these documents when you hand in your visa application.

US Visa Requirements

Here are the required documents for a US visa:

• An online nonimmigrant DS-160 application form. You can file the form DS-160 here.
• Your valid passport. It must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in the United States. However, there are some countries that are exempt from this requirement only needing a passport that is valid during their period of stay in the United States. Your passport must have at least one blank page to be able to affix visa.
• One photograph. The US visa photo requirement is one of the main requirements for every visa you apply for. Upload the photo while you apply online through the DS-160 form. If the upload fails, you can submit the photo on the appointment day. However, we advise you that, even if you upload the photo online, to still bring it with you in case you need it during the interview.
• Receipt proving payment of $160 for a nonimmigrant US visa application. Differently from the European visa policy where you pay the fee at on the appointment day, for a US visa you need to pay the fee in order to be able to schedule an interview. Keep in mind that the US visa fee is non-refundable if you decide to cancel your appointment or if your visa application is rejected.
• Social media details. A list of the social media that you use, and the name
  of your account in each, phone number, email and social media history of the five previous years.

Every document not written in either English or the official language of the country in which the interview will take place must be translated. Translations must be certified by a competent translator.

Form DS-160

If you are applying for a US nonimmigrant visa you should complete the online application form DS-160. You can fill the DS-160 form online via the Consular Electronic Application Center.
Aside from the main documents, there are others you will have to submit in order to support the answers you have given in your application form, such as:

Previous USA visas

If you have visited the US before with an older passport, then you should take it with you on the day of the interview at the embassy or consulate. The US authorities require previously held visas are able to prove that you have entered the country before.

Invitation letter

An invitation letter for US visa is a letter written by a United States citizen or legal resident, confirming that they are willing to admit an international with whom they have family ties or friendship, and also that they have enough room for the visitor for the entire period of their stay in the US.

Travel itinerary

The travel itinerary is a travel plan that shows what you are planning to do while you are in the US. It includes documents as a purchased flight reservation that shows your planned date of entry and exit in the US. If applicable, it can also show inner flight reservations.

Also, you will have to submit some proof of accommodation. It should show where you are planning to stay in the US (hotel, a rented house, a friend’s or relative’s house, etc.). However, it can just show that you have enough financial means to book a hotel once in the US.

Sponsorship documents

If you are planning to come to the United States sponsored by another person who is a US resident then you will have to show proof of that. The sponsor must submit these documents:

• Letter for Affidavit – which is a letter that confirms the sponsor is capable of financially supporting you during your whole stay
• Employment Letter – that shows the sponsor is employed and shows the salary he is paid.
• Payslips – three to four recent payslips
• Bank Letter – that shows the days when the account was opened, the total amount of money deposited during the past year and the present balance.

Property Documents

If you have a property in your home country or somewhere else you should show proof for that. Having property is a huge plus if you are applying for a nonimmigrant visa since that shows you have stronger ties with your home country and you do not intend to remain in the US. If you do, bring proof on the appointment day as:

• Original ownership papers
• Photographs of that property
• Personal affidavit regarding the property

Employment / Professional Documents

• Bring a letter from an employer that gives details of your position, salary, length of employment, the period of authorized vacation and purpose of the trip to the US – If employed.
• Pension book – If retired.
• Company registration certificate and income details – If self-employed.

Family Documents

Anything like: Birth certificate, marriage certificate, close family photographs, adoption certificate (if you are adopted or have adopted a child), divorce certificate, spouse’s death certificate, etc.

Letter from a physician

You are required to schedule a medical appointment with an authorized physician in the country where you will be interviewed. You must complete your medical examination with an embassy-approved doctor. Exams conducted by other physicians will not be accepted.

Requirements for Specific US Visa Types

Extra documents might be required for a US visa depending on the type of visa you are applying for.

Requirements for USA Study Visas

If you are applying for a US student and exchange visa, then the consular officer will require from you to submit proof you have been admitted at a US educational institution. This educational institution has to be under the Student Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). You will also have to pay SEVIS I-901 fee aside of the normal visa fee and submit proof of payment during the interview.

Requirements for USA Work Visas

Depending on the US work visa type you apply for, you might have to submit some of the following documents:

• Proof you meet the qualifications (diplomas and certifications)
• Proof of professional degree (Bachelor, Master, Doctorate)
• Job offer from a US employer
• Resume or CV
• Letter from previous employers
• State License (if applicable)
• Proof that you have extraordinary abilities
• Additional Fees, etc.

Fingerprint Collection

Fingerprints are a mandatory requirement for all those who wish to obtain a US visa. Depending on the consulate or embassy, you will have your fingerprints taken either before or just after the interview.

Only the following categories are exempt from fingerprint collection:

• Children under 14.
• Elders over 79.
• A-1, A-2, G-1, G-2, G-3, C-3.
• NATO applicants.
• People who physically are not able of giving their fingerprints.

Once you collect all your required documents for a US visa, you can look at health insurance options in the United States. You can find the best plan that meets your needs and compare health insurance plans.

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USA Study and Exchange Visa Types

If you want to study in the US or participate in an educational exchange program, there are several types of visas you can apply for depending on what program you’re leaning towards:

• F-1 visa. To get this visa, you must first be enrolled in an approved school in the United States as listed in SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program). If your university application is completed successfully, you will be registered in SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System). It’s important to receive the I-20 form from SEVIS, or you cannot apply for this visa.
• M-1 visa. You can apply for this study visa if you are interested in vocational studies that include, cooking, technical courses, flight training, cosmetology, and similar fields. Even for this visa, you also need to be enrolled at an eligible institution in SEVP, so you can be registered in SEVIS and get your I-20 form.
• J-1 visa. This is a two-year exchange visa you can apply for only if you’ve applied for one of the acceptable programs in this category. Additionally, you can apply for a J-1 visa if you are going to do short-term work, such as au pair, work and holiday, or temporary scholar work. There are several categories of J-1 visas you can apply for depending on the program- make sure you choose the correct visa category for you.
• Q-1 visa. A Q-1 visa is a cultural exchange visa, that allows you to work in the US and share your culture and traditions with other people in the US. To get a Q-1 visa you have to apply for a program managed by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

• Which US Study Visa You Should Apply for?

What is the reason for your visit to the United States?*Select one of the options belowStudy full-time at a collegeAttend elementary schoolAttend high schoolAttend graduate schoolAttend a cooking classAttend flight schoolAttend cosmetology classesAttend mechanical classesAu-pairBecome a camp counselorVisit as a government visitorTake an internshipWork as a physicianWork as a professor or research scholarWorking holiday programsWork in teachingAttend a student exchange programAttend a cultural exchange program 

Select one of the options below

How to Apply for a US Study and Exchange Visa?

To apply for a US study and exchange visa you need to follow these steps:

1. Apply for a study or exchange program. Before you can apply for a study and exchange visa for the US, you must first be enrolled either in a university or be a participant in an exchange program. So, first, apply for the program you are interested in and then apply for your visa.
2. Fill in the visa application. For your study visa application, you have to fill in the online application form DS-160 and have the confirmation page printed as you need it for your documents.
3. Make an interview appointment. After you apply for the visa, make an appointment at your nearest embassy or consular office, for a visa interview.
4. Get your documents ready. When you attend the interview, you have to submit some required documents, i.e., your application confirmation page, a valid passport, a visa photograph, and so on.
5. Pay the visa fee. Usually, you have to pay the fee when you attend the interview, but sometimes you may be required to pay before the interview, if so, then bring the fee receipt with you.
6. Attend your interview. Finally, you can attend the interview and submit your fingerprints. After the interview, you have to wait until a decision is made on your visa application. Here are the questions that may be asked during a student visa interview.

USA Study and Exchange Visa Cost

A US study and exchange visa costs around $160. However, not all study visas will cost the same. In addition to this, you have to pay several fees during the application process, i.e., you have to pay for your visa application, the SEVIS fee, and you may also be required to pay an issuance fee when your visa is granted. You can find the full US visa fees here. 

How Long Can I Stay In the USA With a Study and Exchange Visa?

With a study and exchange visa, you can usually stay in the US for one up to three years. However, the validity of your study visa is always dependent on how long your program lasts- which means most of the time your visa is valid for the duration of your training or program.

Keep in mind that an F-1 visa is mostly issued for a year even if your program lasts for two or three years, in those cases you have to apply for a visa renewal or extend your F-1 visa.

Bringing Family Members Under a USA Study and Exchange Visa

You can bring your family members to the US if you have a study and exchange visa. However, you can usually only bring your spouse and children- they have to apply separately for one of the following visas:

• J-2 visa for dependents.
• M-2 Visa.
• F-2 dependent visa.

Visa Q-1 does not allow you to bring family members, if your spouse or children want to visit you while you have a Q-1 visa, they have to apply separately for a visitor’s visa.

Am I Allowed to Work With a US Study and Exchange Visa?

Usually, you can work only on campus and during school part-time- you can work full time during holidays. However, for some study visas, you have to get a special form that allows you to work, but even then you can only work with restrictions.

Can I Get a Permanent Residence With a Study and Exchange Visa?

One of the easiest ways to get a permanent residence visa from a study and exchange visa is if you marry a US citizen, this is also one of the most common ways. Usually, you have to apply for a fiance visa, and afterward, you can apply for your Green Card.

You can also get permanent residence if you invest at least $500,000 in the US economy or you’ve proven yourself to have exceptional skills that America needs, or you have a job offer and your sponsor can support you for a work visa.

However, getting a permanent residence may be more difficult depending on what type of study and exchange visa you have. For example, getting a permanent residence may be easier from an F-1 visa than from a Q-1 visa.

Read: How to get a green card from an F-1 visa?

What if My Study and Exchange Visa Is Denied?

In case your study and exchange visa is denied because you are considered ineligible for a visa, then you may apply for a waiver of the denial decision. If your ineligibility is temporary you may even re-apply for the visa after you overcome your reason for the visa denial in the first place.

If your visa was denied due to permanent reasons of ineligibility, then you have to apply for the waiver.

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The US State Department has approved a proposal of March 2018, which suggested that travelers to the US should submit these details in addition to the standard required documents.

“National security is our top priority when adjudicating visa applications, and every prospective traveler and immigrant to the United States undergoes extensive security screening,” the department said, adding that they are constantly working to find mechanisms to improve the screening processes to protect US citizens.

This measure comes as a result of the ‘extreme vetting’ that the US State Department wants to start applying, which has also been one of the biggest electoral promises of President Trump as a way to combat terrorism.

Among the social media platforms required are also the US-based entities such as Instagram, LinkedIn, Reddit and YouTube.

According to a notice posted by the Federal Register, in April 2018 the platforms listed may be updated by the Department by adding or removing platforms. Additional platforms will be added only if the collection is consistent with the uses described in the Supporting Statement and after the Office of Management and Budget approval.

In fact, the requirement had started to apply to some specific categories of travelers since 2016, during the Obama presidency, after the shootings in 2015 in San Bernardino, California, that left 14 people dead. Since then, it is estimated that around 65 thousand people per year are required to submit such information, including travelers that have previously traveled to areas controlled by terrorist organizations.

The new measure will affect around 15 million people per year, both immigrant and nonimmigrant visa applicants. Exempt from this requirement may be only certain state officials and diplomats.

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US Visa Photo Requirements

Your US visa photos must be:

• The US visa photo size should be 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm). The photo should be positioned in a way that the head is between 1 and 1 3/8 inches (22 mm and 35 mm) or 50% and 69% of the image’s total height from the bottom of your chin to the top of the head.
• In color.
• Taken within the last 6 months.
• With no shadows.
• With a plain white background.
• You must face the camera in the photo.
• Have a neutral expression.
• Have both eyes open.
• You cannot wear a uniform. However, the clothes that they wear normally every day. Religious clothing that the person wears daily is allowed. The head must not be covered and the hairline has to be visible unless the person wears a headdress for religious purposes. The headdress must not cover the face.
• Without any worn electronic devices. Unless you need a hearing device or something similar.
• You must not wear eyeglasses except for medical reasons. If for example, the person has had an eye surgery lately, they need a statement from a doctor must be provided to justify them. If eyeglasses have to be worn, the frames must not cover the eyes and there must be no glare or shadows in the face from the glasses.

US visa photo do’s and don’t’s

Digital Photo Requirements

If the US Embassy wants you to submit a digital photo online, it must meet these requirements:

• The photo must be square and 1200×1200 pixels.
• The photo must be in color such as the sRGB color space.
• The format of the photo must be in JPEG.
• The size of the photo must be less or equal to 240 kilobytes (kB).
• If your photo is bigger than that size, it can be compressed to a ratio of less than or equal to a 20:1 ratio.

If you already have a physical photo which meets the physical photo requirements, you can scan it and make it as follows:

• The photo has to be in dimensions of 2×2 inches (51×51 mm).
• The resolution of the scanned photo must be 300 pixels per inch or 12 pixels per millimeter.

Nonimmigrant Visa Photo Requirements

In addition to the standard requirements, there are also requirements for the types of visas. Some of the requirements related to US nonimmigrant visa pictures include:

• Applicants using Form DS-160, might need to submit a digital photo which must meet the digital photo requirements.
• In addition to the digital photo, you might also have to submit 1 physical photo as per their requirements

Immigrant Visa Photo Requirements

For those who are applying for a US immigrant visa to permanently stay in the US, you must submit two physical photos in photo quality paper that comply with the standard US visa photo requirements

Diversity Visa Photo Requirements

For those who are entering the Diversity Visa (DV) program or lottery, the photo has to meet these requirements:

• You should upload a digital photo.
• The photo must be in JPEG format.
• The photo must be square and its dimensions must be 600×600 pixels.
• The size of the photo must be 240 kilobytes (kB).

If you scan an existing photo, it must meet these requirements:

• The resolution of the photo must be 300 pixels per inch (12 pixels per millimeter).

If you get selected for the Diversity Visa Program, you should bring more photos that comply with the photo requirements for US visa.

Where to Take US visa Photos?

The US visa photo requirements are quite extensive, so it is difficult to fulfill them all by yourself. That is why it is better to seek professional photo services to take the photos and submit them to the US Embassy you are applying to.

There are many professional services that will take photos of you which fulfill the requirements and send you a digital copy as well as provide physical photos. They are more expensive than taking photos of yourself, you will have a greater chance that the photos will be accepted by the Embassy.

On the other hand, if you submit photos taken with bad quality cameras, the US Embassy might reject them and you will have to submit them again. This will increase your processing time and it will take longer for you to get your visa. So, the best way to go about submitting your photos is to take them to professional stores.

However, if you take the photos yourself, then you must make sure that your camera is of high quality, that all requirements are fulfilled, and that you do not change your appearance using computer software, except to remove the red-eye effect.

How to Get a US Visa Photo for Your Baby or Toddler?

If you are also applying for your baby or toddler to have a US visa, you must also submit photos of them. This can be tricky as babies and toddlers do not sit still for long, so you can either try to take the photos yourself or seek professional services. The requirements and tips for baby and toddler visa photos are as follows:

• The photo must be of the baby or toddler and no one else must be in the picture.
• The baby must have the eyes open for the photo.
• You can lay the baby down on a white sheet and take the photo, but make sure there are no shadows on the baby’s face.
• You can put the baby in a car seat, but cover the car seat with a white sheet to provide a blank background.

What if I Changed my Appearance Significantly in the Last Months?

If your photo is not older than 6 months, but your appearance has changed significantly then you might have to submit a new photo. This would be necessary if you have done the following:

• Went through extensive facial plastic surgery.
• Added or removed piercings or tattoos on your face.
• Gained or lost a significant amount of weight.
• Transitioned to a different gender.

You will not have to submit a new photo if you dyed your hair or grew a beard. Teenagers will also not need to submit new photos if they had a change in appearance due to a normal growth process. As long as you are recognizable in the photos, they will be acceptable. However, the US Embassy is the one which decides whether your photos are acceptable or not.

(Photos source: https://travel.state.gov)

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What Is a Green Card Medical Exam?

A Green Card medical exam is a health evaluation process every applicant must undergo to obtain their Green Card. The point of the exam is to determine that the applicant is healthy, has no detrimental mental health issues, and won’t be a burden on the state, in addition to preventing possible infectious diseases from spreading in the United States.

How to Get a Green Card Medical Exam?

The how about of getting a Green Card medical exam largely depends on whether you are applying for your Green Card in the United States or from your home country:

• From within the US, you need to find the proper doctors appointed for this type of exam, and you can finish the exam either before or after submitting your Green Card application.
• From outside of the US, you need to contact the nearest US embassy or consulate in your country or current country of residence so they can provide you with the necessary information regarding your medical exam.

Green Card Medical Exam Within the US

If you’re applying from within the US for your Green Card, you can schedule your appointment before or after submitting your application. If you complete your exam before applying for your Green Card, you need to attach the medical certificate with the rest of your application package, also known as concurrent filing.

Please note that in this case, you must complete your exam 60 days before submitting your application. If your exam is finished and the medical certificate is signed more than 60 days before the application date, don’t attach the medical certificate with the application. It’s better to submit it after or bring it with you on the day of your interview.

If you choose to complete the medical exam after filing your Green Card application, you can either send the certificate separately or bring it with you on the day of your Green Card interview. With this option, your medical certificate is valid for four years*.

*Please note that a Green Card medical examination certificate is usually valid for two years, but due to Covid, it has been extended to four, and it’s liable to change as the situation with the virus changes.

Green Card Medical Exam Outside the US

If you’re applying for a Green Card from your home country or current country of residence, you must schedule your appointment only after you’ve received your Green Card interview letter from the National Visa Center (NVC). The NVC is a part of the State Department that reviews Green Card applications, and they explicitly state not to schedule a medical appointment until you receive a confirmation on your Green Card interview date.

For a medical exam outside of the US, you need to find your nearest US embassy or consulate where they have listed the approved doctors in your country who can conduct the exam— you can find a list of the embassies here. Then, once you find your doctor, you can set your appointment, and you need to bring your Green Card interview confirmation letter with you. The medical certificate, in this case, will be valid for six months, but in some cases, the certificate can expire in three months, e.g., if you have a specific medical condition.

Can I Go to Any Doctor for a Green Card Medical Exam?

No, you cannot have your usual GP or any other doctor conclude the Green Card medical exam; you must find the approved list of doctors, which can be of two types:

• A civil surgeon. You will visit a civil surgeon if you’re applying for your Green Card from within the US. Your surgeon must be from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) approved list of doctors.
• A panel physician. A panel physician will complete the examination if you’re applying for your Green Card from your home country. The corresponding US embassy or consulate must approve the doctor. You can find the list of physicians on each embassy’s website.

What Medical Tests Will Be Done for a Green Card?

During the Green Card medical exam, plenty of questions will be asked regarding your medical history; your doctor will review your medical records and vaccinations. Afterward, the following medical exams will be concluded:

• A tuberculosis test. A tuberculosis test is administered differently depending on whether you apply from within or outside of the US for your Green Card. If you are in the US, your civil surgeon will follow the CDC’s Tuberculosis Technical Instructions for Civil Surgeons. The doctor will use an IGRA “interferon-gamma release assay” test. If the test reveals signs of TB, you must go back and do chest X-rays and other tests. If you apply from outside the US, your doctor will follow the CDC’s Tuberculosis Technical Instructions for Panel Physicians, which requires all applicants above 15 to receive a chest X-ray.
• A blood and urine test. A blood and urine test will also be administered to check for syphilis or gonorrhea for all applicants above the age of 15.
• Vaccination screening. The US government has a list of required vaccinations for Green Card applicants. If you have not completed your vaccinations, your doctor will administer the rest of the vaccines. If you have, your doctor will sign the vaccination certificate as complete.
• Drug and alcohol test. Drug and alcohol tests are important determiners that might cause your Green Card application to be denied. Your doctor will also ask questions about your current prescriptions and your previous drug history.

What Happens After the Exam?

After the exam, your doctor will collect the examinations and results in one package and ask you to sign the exam form— you need to sign the form in your doctor’s presence. If you are given a sealed envelope with your records, do not open or break the seal, you need to submit the package as is for your application. You can usually ask them to provide you with a copy of the results so you can keep it.

• If you apply from within the US, you must either send the exam results after submitting your application or with your application, depending on how you scheduled your appointment.
• If you apply from outside of the US— your doctor will give you a sealed envelope so you can attach it to your application, or your doctor will send it directly to the embassy or consulate, depending on their instructions.

How Long Does the Green Card Medical Exam Take?

A medical exam for Green Card applications can take anywhere between an hour or days if you have to go back for follow-up tests. The exam length depends on the guidelines your doctor (civil surgeon or panel physician) follows and your health condition.

Immigration Physical Exam Cost

The average cost of the complete examination may be between $100 and $500, with an average cost of $200. But, the medical exam cost depends on where you complete the exam (within the US or your home country) and whether your insurance can cover the exam.

Can You Fail a Green Card Medical Exam?

You can’t actually fail a Green Card medical exam, there is no pass or fail, but if your exam results show serious health problems, it may affect the decision on your Green Card application.

Common Reasons for Green Card Denial due to Medical Exam

Some of the most common reasons why your Green Card application may be denied due to the results of your medical exam include the following:

• You have an infectious disease. If you test positive for infectious diseases such as leprosy, syphilis, or tuberculosis, you cannot receive a Green Card until your disease is taken care of.
• You have a history of drug and alcohol abuse. Your Green Card may be rejected if you test positive for drug use and alcohol abuse.
• You were diagnosed with a mental illness associated with violence. You won’t receive a Green Card if you had bursts of violence or threatened to harm yourself or others due to a mental condition. The USCIS includes drunk driving in this category as well.
• Your health makes it difficult to work. If you have serious health problems which affect your work rendering it impossible to receive an income, your Green Card may be denied for fear that you will end up a burden on the state. This may not be taken into account if despite your health, you have enough financial means to support yourself or if someone will financially support you.

What Can I Do if My Green Card Is Denied Because of My Medical Results?

If your Green Card application is denied due to the results of your medical exam, (e.g., you tested positive for syphilis, TB, or had a previous history of drug use), you need to submit proof to your examination doctor that those medical conditions have already been treated. In case of mental illnesses, your regular doctor may sign a letter stating that your mental illness is under control and being treated. In this case, you must submit proof of your previous medical treatments and medical history.

You also can apply for a “waiver of inadmissibility” to allow you to enter the US. However, the decision to grant a waiver of inadmissibility is at the discretion of the USCIS in consultation with the CDC.

Medicals for Green Card FAQ

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions regarding medicals for a Green Card application.

Do I Need to Get a Medical Exam for a Green Card If I’m Pregnant?

You still need to complete your medical exam if you are pregnant or on your cycle. This includes having a chest-X ray if required. In case of pregnancy, you need to submit written consent to the doctor you agree to the X-ray, and the doctors are legally bound to provide you with double the protection during the X-ray. However, you may ask to have the chest X-ray completed after you give birth to the baby but before entering the US.

Do Children Need to Complete a Medical Exam for Green Card?

Children also need to complete a medical exam for a Green Card, but depending on their age, they may be excluded from certain parts of the exam, such as chest X-rays or blood tests.

Are Applicants With Cognitive Disabilities Required to Complete a Medical Exam?

Green Card applicants with any developmental, intellectual, or learning disabilities can submit a report of their condition to their doctor in addition to any special requirements they may need.

What Do I Need to Bring on the Day of the Medical Exam?

Here is a list of the basic documents you need to bring with you on the day of your Green Card Medical exam:

• A copy of your medical history.
• Previous chest X-rays (if applicable).
• An official ID such as a passport, driver’s license, travel, or residence permit.
• Your vaccination records (if applicable).
• A letter from your regular GP or doctor outlining your health condition and any treatments you follow (if applicable).
• Form I-693 (if you’re applying from the US).
• Your Green Card confirmation letter (if you’re applying from your home country).

Please note that you may be required to submit additional documentation.

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Where Can US Passport Holders Travel Without a Visa?

As of January 2023, US passport holders can travel visa free to 143 countries and territories:

• Albania
• American Samoa
• Andorra
• Anguilla
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Argentina
• Armenia
• Aruba
• Australia
• Austria
• Bahamas
• Barbados
• Belgium
• Belize
• Bermuda
• Caribbean Netherlands
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Botswana
• Brazil
• British Virgin Islands
• Brunei
• Bulgaria
• Canada
• Cayman Islands
• Central African Republic
• Chile
• Colombia
• Cook Islands
• Costa Rica
• Croatia
• Curaçao
• Cyprus
• Czechia
• Denmark
• Dominica
• Dominican Republic
• Ecuador
• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea
• Estonia
• Falkland Islands
• Faroe Islands
• Fiji
• Finland
• France
• French Guiana
• French Polynesia
• French West Indies
• Georgia
• Germany
• Gibraltar
• Greece
• Greenland
• Grenada
• Guam
• Guatemala
• Guyana
• Haiti
• Honduras
• Hong Kong
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Indonesia
• Iraq
• Ireland
• Israel
• Italy
• Jamaica
• Kazakhstan
• Kiribati
• Kosovo
• Kyrgyzstan
• Latvia
• Lesotho
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Macau
• Malaysia
• Malta
• Marshall Islands
• Mauritius
• Mayotte
• Mexico
• Micronesia
• Moldova
• Monaco
• Mongolia
• Montenegro
• Montserrat
• Morocco
• Namibia
• Netherlands
• New Caledonia
• New Zealand
• Nicaragua
• Niue
• North Macedonia
• Northern Mariana Islands
• Norway
• Oman
• Pakistan
• Palau
• Palestine
• Panama
• Peru
• Philippines
• Poland
• Portugal
• Puerto Rico
• Qatar
• Réunion
• Romania
• San Marino
• São Tomé and Príncipe
• Senegal
• Serbia
• Singapore
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• South Africa
• South Korea
• Spain
• Sri Lanka
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Martin
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Taiwan
• Thailand
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Tunisia
• Turks and Caicos Islands
• United States Virgin Islands
• Ukraine
• United Kingdom
• Uruguay
• Uzbekistan
• Vanuatu
• Vatican City
• Eswatini

For visa-free travels, you still must have a valid passport — usually six months after your departure date— and you must purchase travel health insurance as required by your destination country.

What Countries Issue eVisa to US Citizens?

The following 10 countries issue eVisas for US passport holders:

• Angola
• Azerbaijan
• Benin
• Djibouti
• India
• Kenya
• Myanmar
• Suriname
• Türkiye
• Vietnam

The process of getting an eVisa is more or less the same as applying for a traditional visa. However, in this case, you don’t have to visit a visa application center— you can submit your application online, including the visa payment.

After your application is approved, you will receive an email confirming your visa status along with a document you must print out and bring with you when crossing the border. Your visa will be registered online, but some officers may ask you for a physical copy of the permit; that is why it’s important to keep the copy on your person while traveling.

What Countries Issue Visa on Arrival to US Passport Holders?

If you are an US citizen, you can get a visa on arrival for the 43 countries listed below:

• Bahrain
• Bangladesh
• Bolivia
• Burkina Faso
• Burundi
• Cambodia
• Cabo Verde
• Comoros
• Egypt
• Ethiopia
• Gabon
• Guinea-Bissau
• Jordan
• Kuwait
• Laos
• Lebanon
• Madagascar
• Malawi
• Maldives
• Mauritania
• Mozambique
• Nepal
• Papua New Guinea
• Paraguay
• Rwanda
• Samoa
• Saudi Arabia
• Seychelles
• Sierra Leone
• Solomon Islands
• Somalia
• Saint Helena
• Tajikistan
• Tanzania
• Gambia
• Timor-Leste
• Togo
• Tonga
• Tuvalu
• Uganda
• United Arab Emirates
• Zambia
• Zimbabwe

You receive a visa on arrival (VOA) after entering the country that issues such a visa. Usually, there is a separate section at the airport where you can submit your application for your visa on arrival.

Which Countries Are US Passport Holders Not Allowed to Enter?

US passport holders are not allowed to enter Cuba, North Korea, Syria.

Countries With Visa Requirements for US Citizens

You need a valid visa to enter the following 27 countries with an US passport:

• Afghanistan
• Algeria
• Belarus
• Bhutan
• Cameroon
• Chad
• China
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Republic of the Congo
• Ivory Coast
• Eritrea
• Ghana
• Guinea
• Iran
• Japan
• Liberia
• Libya
• Mali
• Nauru
• Niger
• Nigeria
• Russia
• South Sudan
• Sudan
• Turkmenistan
• Venezuela
• Yemen

The application for a visa goes as follows:

1. Make an appointment at the visa center in United States. You must contact a local visa application center in your home country and make an appointment to submit your application. It may take several months to schedule a meeting with the embassy or consulate.
2. Get your documents ready. To submit a successful application, you have to prepare the required documents for your visa, i.e., passport, application form, health insurance, etc. Some of your documents must be verified with an apostille stamp or certified by a foreign office.
3. Submit your application. Finally, you can submit your application and attend the visa interview—you may also be required to submit your biometrics. Once you translate your documents as required by the embassy or consulate and verify them with an apostille stamp— if possible, then you can submit your application. From then it will take several weeks until a decision is made regarding your visa application.

Please note that if you have a valid visa that allows you to enter more than one country, you don’t have to apply for a new visa.

What Documents Do US Citizens Need to Apply for a Visa?

US citizens that want to visit countries that require them to apply for a visa beforehand need to submit a few documents. Depending on the country you want to visit, document requirements may vary. However, most countries will certainly require the following:

• Your valid US passport (plus a photocopy). Some countries require the passport to be valid for more than six months after the day you plan on departing their country.
• A filled visa application form.
• Passport pictures that are not older than six months.
• Travel health insurance that covers your entire period of stay.
• Proof of paid visa fee.
• Detailed travel itinerary that shows all the places you want to visit.
• Letter of invitation (if applicable)
• Proof of booked return ticket for the flight home.
• Proof of booked accommodation.
• Proof that you have sufficient funds to cover your visit
• Civil status documents (marriage papers, certificates of birth, etc.)

Important: Please note that your visa will most likely be rejected if you have a previous criminal history.

The post Visa Free Countries for US Passport Holders appeared first on Visa Consulate - Visa Information For Any Country.

Citizens of the countries listed here need to apply for a UK visa before entering the United Kingdom.

Do US Citizens Need a Visa For UK?

US citizens do not need to apply for a visa to enter the UK if they travel for tourism or business purposes, for stays up to six months. However, they are required to apply for all other types of visas in order to travel or stay in the UK.

How to Apply for a UK Visa from USA?

To apply for a UK visa in USA, you must follow these steps:

1. Find out if you need a visa for UK.
2. Complete the Online UK visa application form.
3. Book an appointment to provide Biometrics.
4. Attend the visa interview.

Complete the Online Application form

After determining whether you need to apply for a UK visa from the US you can begin the application process. To begin the application process for a UK visa you need to fill the online application form, by submitting correct and honest information and then pay the visa application fees. If the information in the application form doesn’t comply with the information in the other required documents, your application will be rejected.

Compile the document file

To apply for a UK visa from USA, Green card holders must provide the following documents:

• Completed UK visa application form.
• Two UK visa photographs that are taken within the past six months.
• Your valid Passport. It must be valid for three more months beyond the date you plan to leave the UK after your trip. It must also have at least one blank page for the visa.
• A receipt that confirms you have paid the fees as required.
• Translations of documents that are not in English or Welsh.
• Proof of US status.  Which might be either an Original Alien Registration Card (Green Card) or an Original US Visa
• Proof that you have purchased round trip flight booking on your planned dates of travel from the US.
• Employment Letter. This is a confirmation that you are the employee of a company which has approved your dates of the leave.
• Proof of Accomodation in the UK:
  • Letter of Invitation for UK visa – if you are planning to stay over at friends or family members, then your host must write you a letter which includes the length of your stay, the address and also the contact information of your host among others.
  • Hotel Confirmation – if you plan to stay at a hotel instead, then a hotel booking confirmation must be submitted.
• Proof of means of subsistence. The applicant will have to submit proof that they are financially capable to maintain themselves during their whole stay in the UK. This includes bank statements not older than three days, pay slips, and other types of evidence for your income as rental income, etc. If you are coming to the UK under some program that will financially support you then you’ll have to submit evidence for that.
• Tuberculosis Test Results. Nationals of several world countries will need to submit the requests of a Tuberculosis Test in order to be eligible for a UK Visa. Check here if you need to provide the TB test results.
• Biometric information. If you are applying for a visa that lets you stay in the UK for more than 6 months, you will need to submit your biometric information. This includes giving your fingerprints and a digital photograph taken at the appropriate application center.

Book an appointment for Biometrics

Then you will have to schedule an appointment at one of 130+ Application Support Centers (ASCs) throughout the United States for Biometric testing. At this appointment, you will have your digital image taken and also a digital scan of all ten fingers. The earliest you can submit your visa application with all of the required documents is one or one and a half days after and the latest 2 weeks after biometric submission.

At the appointment you should have with you:

• your current passport.
• a print out of your application form.
• a copy of your biometric confirmation receipt.

Children under the age of 5 are exempt from having their fingerprints taken.

Attend the visa interview at the UK Embassy/Consulate in the United States

After gathering every required document, then you will have to send them to the British Consulate General in New York via mail or registered travel agent. Put your passport, application form, and the other documents in an envelope. Arrange them according to the checklist and do not staple any of them.

Non-settlement applications should be submitted to the British Consulate General in New York under the following address:

UK Visas and Immigration
British Consulate General
845 Third Avenue
New York
10022

Settlement applications

Settlement applications are done within the United Kingdom and should be submitted here:

International Operations and Visas
6 Millsands
Vulcan House
Sheffield
S3 8NH
United Kingdom

Whether your application gets approved or not, you will, however, have to provide a fully addressed prepaid electronic shipping label inside the package with your documents. Keep a copy of the way-bill for your records.

Types of UK Visa From USA for Green Card Holders

For Green Card holders the first step towards a successful visa application is to decide what kind of visa they need to enter the United Kingdom. Before scheduling an appointment and starting to gather the required documents, check out the list of UK visa types, and try to figure out which visa fits you.

A US applicant can enter the United Kingdom under one of the following visas:

UK Business visa from USA

The UK Business visa category has been established with the sole purpose of attracting successful business people to come and invest in the UK together with their families, ranging from investors, to entrepreneurs and more. To apply for these visas, the applicant must provide the following:

• Short CV.
• Letters of support from a UK based organization, institution or company.
• Letters of recommendation from recognized experts.
• Examples of recent significant media recognition.
• Proof of having won international awards for excellence.
• Proof of appearances, performances, publications or exhibitions in last 5 years.
• A UK-recognized bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or PhD awarded before your date of endorsement.

UK Work visa from USA

The UK work visa is especially for high-end professionals from other countries who wish to work and live in the UK for shorter or longer periods. To apply for a UK work visa from USA you must have:

• A job offer in the UK that cannot be filled by the local or the EU workforce;
• A sponsorship letter (an employer, regional administrator, local authority who holds a valid Tier 2 Sponsorship License)

UK Visitor visa from USA

The UK visitor visa is a visa issued to US residents that wish to enter and stay in the UK for tourism or family visit for periods shorter than six months This visa is for travelers that are not citizens of a country that has a visa facilitation agreement with the UK. Visitors are prohibited from getting a job inside UK with this type of visa, just as with many other types.

UK Transit visa from USA

The UK transit visa is for foreigners who are not from the EEA or Switzerland, and are using the UK as a transit country to pass from another country to their destination. This visa offers the opportunity to apply for a long-term transit visa if the applicant has enough evidence that he needs to travel regularly through UK to arrive at their destination, but has no intention to stay or live there permanently. To apply for a UK transit visa in the US you must provide:

• Booked travel tickets confirmed.
• Confirmation from travel agent.
• Document to confirm being permitted to entry the other country.
• Visa for the other country (if required).
• Document to confirm being permitted to entry the other country.
• Documents to confirm the reason for traveling to the other country.

UK Family Visa from USA

The UK family visas type is for people who have family members working and living in the UK and want to join them for more than six months, as their dependents. The dependents can be husband or wife (spouse), partner, fiancé, fiancée or proposed civil partner, children, parents, other family members.

UK Student Visa from USA

The UK student visas are issued to prospective students that plan on enrolling in UK educational institutions, such as universities and schools. To apply for a student visa you must provide the following:

• Parents’ or legal guardian letters (if under 18)
• Criminal record certificate
• A valid Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) Clearance Certificate issued by the Foreign and the Commonwealth Office, the Department of the Counter-Proliferation Department.
• Confirmation Letter From the Official Financial Sponsor

Temporary Visa for Refugees and Stateless persons in USA

Eligible for this visa are only the people who are about to enter in the UK and are at the borders because had to leave their country as their life was seriously threatened. The application for this visa is made from within the UK. To apply for such a visa, you must provide the following documents:

• Registration with the police – police registration certificate.
• Birth certificate.
• Marriage certificate.
• Education certificate.
• Medical documents – if suffering from any medical condition.
• Documents to confirm the home address in the UK.

UK Visas in the Points Based System

The Points Based System is the means of regulating immigration to the United Kingdom, which evaluates visa candidates based on the points they can gather by meeting visa requirements. Each visa requirement has its points, and there is an appointed number of points the candidate should gather in order to receive the visa.

There are 5 different of visas based in the Points-Based System:

• Tier 1 Visas – For highly-skilled professional foreigners.
• Tier 2 Visas – Skilled foreign workers with a job offer in a shortage area.
• Tier 3 Visas – For low-skilled foreign workers with a temporary job offer in a shortage area (This type of visa has never been implemented since it has been assessed that the UK has already enough low-skilled workers.)
• Tier 4 Visas – Foreign students and specialists.
• Tier 5 Visas – Youth mobility and temporary foreign workers.

Priority, Super Priority, and Premium UK Visa Services

These are optional visa services for which the applicant has to pay an extra fee in order to get an answer on their application within a shorter period of time.

These services can be used by applicants applying for one of the below-listed visa types:

• Tourist and short stay (visitor) visas
• Points-based system Tier 2 and Tier 5 applicants with authority to be living in the United States
• Point-based system Tier 5 (Youth Mobility Scheme) if you are currently in the US for a similar purpose to take up in the United Kingdom
• Points-based system Tier 5 (Temporary worker – Creative and Sporting) if currently in the USA for a similar purpose to take up in the UK
• Points-based system Tier 4 student visas – for applicants who are resident in the USA and are subject to different document requirements under Tier 4 of the Points-based system

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For some, traveling is easy. You buy a ticket, and that is it. For others, traveling includes applications and processes that are often confusing and time-consuming, in particular when it comes to traveling to Europe.

If you are living in the United States, and you do not know what procedures you should follow to enter Europe, this article will make it clear to you.

Do I Need to Apply for a Visa to Go to Europe?

Currently, US citizens do not need to apply for a Schengen visa to visit Europe. However, they will need to apply for an ETIAS starting November, 2023, in order to be permitted to enter any of the Schengen states. ETIAS stands for European Travel Information and Authorization System and is quite similar to the American ESTA.

You will have to apply for a Schengen visa from the US prior to your trip if you belong to any of the following categories:

• You have been rejected visa-free entry in Europe despite being:
  • A US passport holder
  • A passport holder of one of the countries that have a visa-free agreement with the Schengen Area
• You are a national of one of the countries that have not established a visa-free regime with the Schengen states yet

Please keep in mind that you will be able to get a Schengen visa from the US only if you you are a Green Card holder. In case you are there on a visa, you will not be able to apply for a Schengen Visa. Instead, you will have to go to your country of residence in order to be able to apply.

When Should I Submit the Schengen Visa Application From the United States?

You cannot just file your visa application whenever you want to. The earliest you can submit your Schengen visa application is three months prior to your trip to this region. The latest you can do so is two months prior to the date of your planned trip.

However, the most advisable time to file your application is three weeks prior to your trip to the Schengen zone.

How to Apply for Schengen Visa From USA?

Though it might sound like tons of work and requirements; in fact, applying for a Schengen visa from the US is simple, especially if you fulfill the eligibility criteria. As a start, in order to get your application ready, you need to figure out a couple of things as:

1. Choose the type of Schengen visa that you need.
2. Determine where to file your application.
3. Fill the Schengen Visa Application form.
4. Book an appointment.
5. Collect the required documents.
6. Show up at the appointment.

Types of Schengen visas available for applicants in USA

Applicants from the United States can apply for the following visas, depending on the purpose of visiting the Schengen countries:

• Tourist Schengen visa.
• Transit Schengen visa.
• Business Schengen visa.
• Visitor Schengen visa.
• Cultural Schengen visa.
• Medical treatment Schengen visa.

Where to apply for a Schengen visa in United States?

Just because the Schengen states have a common visa policy, it does not mean you can file your visa application at whichever Schengen embassy in the United States.  There are strict rules on where an applicant shall file their application. Before you schedule an appointment, decide:

• How many Schengen countries will you visit?
• If you are planning to visit more than one country:
  • How much you will remain in each?
  • In which country will you step first?

Visiting one country in Europe

If you are going to visit only one country, then file your application at the embassy/consulate/visa center of that country in the United States. For example if you want to visit France, you should submit your application at the nearest French mission (Embassy or Consulate).

Visiting more than one country in Europe

On the other hand, if you will be visiting more than one country, then file your application at the embassy/consulate/visa center of the country in which you will spend most days. If you plan on spending equal time in all the countries that you will visit, then you should apply at the Embassy or Consulate of the country you will land first.

Choosing the mission that processes visa applications

In addition, depending on how your destination country has regulated visa submission, you may have to submit your application at their:

• Embassy.
• Consulate.
• Visa Center.
• Embassy/consulate/visa center of another Schengen country to which your destination country has outsourced visa submission.

Aside from that, in the US, each embassy and each consulate have their own jurisdiction area. This means that where you need to file your application also depends on the jurisdiction area under which you fall.

Fill in the Schengen visa application form

After determining where to apply, you can download the Schengen visa application form from the Embassy/Consulate website. It is free of charge, so you need to make sure not to get scammed by paying for it.

You will have to answer questions for basic information such as your name, date of birth, country of birth, passport number, and nationality; and questions regarding your trip, such as where will you stay, for how long etc.

Book an appointment

After completing the application form you will have to book an appointment with the embassy or consulate in the United States that will handle your application.

Collect the required documents

Here are the documents that you need to submit to apply for a Schengen visa from the USA:

• Schengen Visa Application Form. The form is the same for all countries in Schengen. Fulfill the form with correct information and print it twice. Sign both copies at the end.
• Valid passport. Your passport must be valid for another three months beyond the date you plan to leave the area. It must not be older than ten years and have at least two blank pages.
• Two identical photos. It must not be older than 3 months and fulfill the requirements for a Schengen visa photo.
• Schengen Travel Health Insurance for Europe. In the minimum amount of €30,000, that covers any medical emergencies and repatriation in case of death.
• Proof of Accommodation. You must submit documents through which you prove where you will be staying throughout your time in the Schengen states. That could be:
  • a hotel booking,
  • a letter of invitation, or
  • a rent agreement.
• Flight Itinerary. A document through which you prove you have a saved seat in your flight from the United States to Europe. It also contains the dates you enter and leave Schengen.
• Cover Letter. A letter in which you explain your whole trip in details, what you will be doing, the places you will be visiting, etc.
• Proof of financial means. Evidence that you have the means to support yourself throughout your whole trip in the Schengen Area.

Depending on your employment status you will have to submit the following documents:

• If you are an employee, you need to submit:
  • Leave permission from the employer.
  • Employment contract.
  • Income Tax Return (ITR) form or Certificate of Income Tax deducted at the source of salary.
• If you are self-employed, you need to submit:
  • A copy of your business license.
  • Income Tax Return (ITR).
• If you are retired, you need to submit:
  • Pension statement of the latest 6 months.
• If you are studying at a US university, you need to submit:
  • Proof of enrollment.
  • No objection letter from School or University in the US.
• If you are unemployed and married to a US citizen, you need to submit:
  • Your spouse’s Confirmation of Employment. This document should be issued by the employer of your spouse and must indicate details as the position held by your spouse within the company, as well as the starting date.
  • Spouse’s valid passport.
  • An officially translated marriage certificate. If your marriage certificate is not in English, translation is required. This translation must be certified as a true copy by the Embassy of the country where the marriage took place or by the Legalization Bureau of the Foreign Office in US. In case this Certificate was issued outside the EU, it must bear a stamp by the Foreign Office of the issuing country, or its Embassy in the US.

In addition, you will have to gather specific documents depending on the purpose of your visit.

Remember that despite the fact the Schengen states have a common visa policy, some of the countries may have extra requirements.

Show up at the appointment

Every applicant must show up at the appointment on time, and cannot send someone over to attend the interview on their behalf. Underage applicants must be accompanied by their mother/father/legal guardian.

Providing the documents

At the appointment you will have to submit the file of documents that you have collected to support your application. The visa official will go through your file to make sure that you can proceed with the interview.

Biometrics

If you have never applied for a Schengen visa before, you will have to submit your biometrics. You will have your fingerprints and facial image taken.

The visa interview

The interview lasts around ten minutes. Throughout this time, you will have to answer the questions the visa interviewer asks.

They will ask you about your background, the reasons why you wish to visit the Schengen Zone and other questions related to your trip.

Verifying the details

After the interview, the information that you provided will be entered into the online system and you will receive a printed copy of your application. This process usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. After you get the printed form, you should verify that all the details are correct and sign the form.

Pay the application fee

The fees for a Schengen visa are the same, no matter where you are applying from. Currently, the fee for a Schengen visa for adults is $69 and $40 for children under 12. Children below the age of 6, are exempt.

In addition, there are categories of people who are exempt from paying the fee, or who only have to pay a lower fee.

Keep in mind that in case of visa rejection or application withdrawal you will not be able to get your money back.

In Case of Schengen Visa Denial

In case you have your Schengen visa application from the United States denied, you can always reapply by fixing the mistakes made during your application. When you get the news on visa denial, the embassy will also provide you with reasons why you were rejected from getting a visa.

You can also appeal the decision by writing a visa rejection appeal letter.

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Depending on the policy you choose, travel insurance can also protect you from losses due to trip disruptions, such as a delayed flight, if you need to cut the trip short, or personal liability.

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for Schengen Visa?

Yes, if you need a visa to travel to Europe, then you will have to get travel insurance because it is a mandatory part of the visa application process. Simply said, if you do not have a valid insurance policy, then the Embassy will automatically reject your request for a visa.

On the other hand, if you do not need a visa to travel to the Schengen Area, then it is not strictly necessary to be insured (although it is still highly recommended!).

Also read: List of countries that require travel insurance.

Schengen Visa Insurance Requirements

The Schengen visa travel insurance plan must meet these requirements:

• It should cover at least €30,000 for medical expenses and emergency evacuation.
• It should be valid in all 27 countries in the Schengen Zone.
• It should be valid for the entire duration of time you are in Europe.

Luckily, because it is required at Embassies for the visa application, most insurance companies offer policies designed specifically to meet these requirements.

Companies such as Europ Assistance and MondialCare offer travel insurance certificate that is required by Embassies when applying for a Schengen visa.

Proof of Purchased Health Insurance for Schengen Visa

When you apply for a visa, the Embassy will ask to see proof of purchased Schengen travel insurance. This usually goes by the name of “travel insurance certificate” and your insurance company will give it to you when you subscribe to one of their plans.

If the Embassy you apply to has certain specific requirements about the insurance certificate, then just contact your insurance company and they will most likely give you a certificate suited to your situation.

What Should the Schengen Travel Insurance Plan Cover?

Make sure your plan covers:

• Cost of medical treatment. This includes:
  • In-patient and out-patient medical treatment.
  • Doctor visits.
  • Hospitalization.
  • Surgery.
  • Prescription medication.
  • Emergency dental care.
• Cost of repatriation or evacuation. If you become gravely ill or get into a serious accident which requires medical attention from your home country, then travel insurance covers the cost of repatriation. It also covers repatriation in the event of death.

This is what a basic policy has to cover to be valid for a visa application. However, some insurance companies also offer additional, more comprehensive coverage, such as insurance for your trip or liability.

What Other Liabilities Are Covered in My Travel Insurance Policy?

Other than the basic Schengen travel health insurance (for medical and repatriation costs), some insurance companies will also cover other liabilities and risks associated with the trip, such as:

• Assistance in the event of illness. For example, if you get sick, the insurance company pays for someone to travel to be with you (their flight ticket, hotel stay, etc).
• Trip cancellation. If you need to cut your trip short due to unforeseen circumstances, then the insurance policy will reimburse some of your prepaid expenses.
• Flight delay. If your flight is delayed, the insurance company will cover food and accommodation expenses as you wait for another flight, but only for long delays.
• Loss/theft of baggage. If your baggage is damaged, lost or stolen (through no fault of your own) the insurance company
• Personal liability abroad. If you cause personal injuries to someone or property damage while you are in Europe, the insurance company covers some of the cost.

What Does Schengen Insurance Not Cover?

In most cases, you will not have travel insurance coverage in the following situations:

• If you need medical treatment due to a pre-existing condition such as diabetes, cancer, or any lingering previous injuries.
• Medical treatment that is not an emergency.
• If you need medical attention as a result of intoxication (alcohol or drug consumption).
• If you need medical attention because you took part in adventurous or extreme sports, such as bungee jumping, motor racing, etc.
• If you need medical attention as a result of a natural disaster.
• If you have travelled to an area that is considered high risk (there is conflict, political unrest, an epidemic, etc).

What Are the Companies Offering the Best Schengen Visa Insurance?

Here is a list of companies offering the best travel insurance for Schengen Visa:

• Europ Assistance.
• MondialCare.
• Insubuy.
• AXA Schengen.
• Dr-WALTER.
• Bupa.
• Allianz.

How To Buy Schengen Visa Insurance?

Most insurance companies operate online, so you can simply purchase a travel insurance plan directly from their website. To purchase one, visit the company website, look for the “Get a Quote” or “Start Now” button, and:

1. Complete the online application form. You have to give your name, nationality, age, destination, and the dates of travel.
2. Select which plan you want. There is usually more than one plan available. You can read the benefits of each plan to find one suited to your needs. For example, if you purchase through Europ Assistance one of the leading insurance companies, there are two available policies you can subscribe to.
3. Make the payment. You can usually pay by a credit/debit card or through PayPal. The cost of the insurance plan depends on the information you provided (age, length of trip) as well as the plan you chose.
4. Download and print the Insurance Certificate. You need this to hand in to the Embassy when you apply for a visa. It will be in PDF format.

Other options

Even though purchasing travel insurance online is the easiest and most convenient option, there are other methods as well:

• Through a local insurance company. You can just visit the offices of an insurance company in your country, request a Schengen insurance policy, and purchase one.
• Through your tour agency. If you will visit Europe via an organized tour, the agency may offer you a complimentary insurance policy added to the overall price. Be mindful of these offers, because they may inflate the price of the policy and not give you adequate coverage. If you have the option, always read the policy beforehand – and if you don’t like it, see if you can opt-out.

How Do I Get Schengen Visa Insurance From the USA?

If you are from the USA, you can get travel insurance for your trip to Europe in the same way as everyone else – by purchasing a plan online. Companies like Europe Assistance or MondialCare make it possible to subscribe to travel insurance through their website and get the Insurance Certificate as a downloadable, printable, electronic file. If you need a visa, you can just submit this Certificate to the Embassy.

How Exactly Does Travel Medical Insurance Work?

Travel health insurance protects you from financial losses as a result of medical emergencies while you are visiting Europe. If you have a valid insurance policy during your trip, then when you seek medical attention, the insurance company will take over the costs. There are two ways it usually works:

1. The hospital sends the bill directly to the insurance company. You do not need to pay anything upfront.
2. You pay the bill yourself, then make a claim with the insurance company to reimburse you. Make sure to save the bill you receive from the hospital.

If you are in an emergency situation, make sure to contact the assistance center as soon as you can so that they can help you or inform you on how to proceed.

How Much Does Schengen Medical Travel Insurance Cost?

There are three main factors which affect the price of your travel insurance policy:

1. Your age. The cost of the insurance policy increases along with your age. For example, older individuals (especially over the age of 60) have to pay higher premiums for the same insurance plan than someone who is younger.
2. The duration of your trip. Usually, insurance companies calculate the cost of the policy on a daily basis. So, the longer you plan to stay in Schengen, the higher the price of your policy.
3. The maximum coverage limit. There are usually 2-3 insurance plans you can choose from, regardless of the insurance company. As such, the basic plan with health insurance coverage of up to €30,000 will be cheaper than the one with maximum coverage of up to €100,000 or more.

However, Schengen insurance is not usually too expensive in comparison to the overall price of the trip. For a one-week trip, in general, you would pay between €20 to €50, depending on the policy.

Should I Purchase Schengen Health Insurance If I Have Domestic Insurance?

Yes, you do. If you have domestic insurance (for example, you are an American citizen travelling within the US.), but you also plan to travel to Europe, then you will have to get a Schengen visa insurance plan to cover you abroad. Domestic insurance plans have coverage only within the country they were purchased in, and do not cover international travel.

Can I Get a Refund If My Schengen Visa Application Is Refused?

Many companies offer you a refund of your insurance policy if you do not receive a Schengen visa, but not all. Usually, you can learn whether or not you can get a refund by looking at the FAQ section on a company website, or by contacting them directly.

Does Schengen Medical Insurance Cover me for Countries That Are Not Part of the Schengen Area?

Usually, Schengen insurance is aimed only at the countries within the Schengen Area. However,  if you plan to travel somewhere outside the Schengen Zone, you can get an international travel insurance plan or an additional insurance plan aimed specifically at those countries.

Will I Get Covid-19 Coverage When Buying a Schengen Visa Travel Insurance?

If you get sick with Covid-19 while traveling, most travel insurance companies will cover your medical costs only if you follow the travel recommendation set by your country or the destination country, as well as those by the World Health Organization.

In other words, if you visit a place which has travel bans in place or a high number of Covid-19 infections, then you likely do not have coverage for coronavirus.

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This article will go through the US citizenship application process, how long it takes to get it, the cost, and other relevant information.

Why Become a US Citizen?

US citizens are those who have either been born in the US or got the citizenship after they met the requirements. As a US citizen, you will have a US passport which allows you to travel in most of the countries in the world. You are also allowed to live and work anywhere in the US legally and earn a salary. You have the right to own property and get a driver’s license.

If you get married to a foreign spouse, they will have the right to apply for a Green Card. While applying for Green Card you must also get a Medical Exam to submit it, either before or after your Green Card application. After a few years, the spouse can then get citizenship. Also, if your children are born in the US, they are automatically considered US citizens.

As a US citizen, you will have the right to express yourself, have any religion of your choice, and the right to a fair trial. You can vote and run for elected office too.

With these rights, there are also a few responsibilities. You must respect the US constitution, pay taxes and obey US federal, state, and local laws. You must also serve on a trial jury when they call you, and serve in the military if there is a need.

US Citizenship Requirements

If you are living in the US with a Green Card and want to become a citizen, then there are specific US citizenship requirements.

To become a US citizen you must fulfill the following requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old when you file the application.
• Be a Green Card holder for at least 5 years.
• Have continuous residence in the US for at least 5 years before you file the application.
• You must have lived physically in the US for at least 30 months from the 5 years that you have had the Green Card.
• Prove that you have lived in the state you are applying for at least 3 months.
• Be able to speak, read, and write basic English.
• Understand US history and government.
• Show that you respect the US Constitution.
• Be a person of good moral character, which means you have not committed any serious crimes.

If you do not fulfill any of these requirements for citizenship, then you are not allowed to apply. Applications must go through the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Even if you apply without meeting the American citizenship requirements, USCIS will deny it.

How to Apply for US Citizenship?

Before you start your application for the US citizenship, first make sure you are not already a citizen. If you were born in the US or you were born abroad to US parents, you may already be a citizen and do not need to apply at all. If you have a parent who is a US citizen, then you must only file Form N-600, Application for Certificate of Citizenship or N-600K, Application for Citizenship and Issuance of Certificate.

To apply for US citizenship you must go through these simple steps:

1. Complete and submit Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.
2. Give your biometric information.
3. Complete the citizenship by naturalization interview.
4. Complete the English language test.
5. Complete the civics test.
6. Receive the decision of USCIS.
7. Take the Oath of Allegiance.

Complete and submit Form N-400, Application for Naturalization

This form is the primary one for you to file for naturalization or citizenship. You can find it in the USCIS website here. You can follow the instructions of the form, complete is, and sign it. Attach two passport-style photos to it if you are living outside of the US.

Also, review the instructions to check if you need to attach other supporting documents. These may include medical certifications, proof of disability or developmental impairments, and other documents which show you are eligible for citizenship. If you do not attach the necessary documents, USCIS will request them after you have submitted it. This will make your processing time longer than necessary.

Before you submit the application, attach proof that you paid the required fees. Without paying the fees, your application is not processed. Finally, keep a copy of your application for your interview.

Give your biometric information

In case USCIS wants to do a background check on you, they might ask you to give biometric information. USCIS will send you a notification with your appointment time, date, and location. You must show up at the appointment. There, you will give your fingerprints and they will take a photograph of you.

Complete the citizenship by naturalization interview

After processing your application, USCIS will schedule an interview appointment with you. It is extremely important to not miss this interview, so if you cannot make it, you must notify them to reschedule. Be aware that rescheduling the interview adds a few months to the process of you getting the citizenship.

When you go to the interview, a USCIS officer will ask questions about your application and background. You must answer truthfully and accurately.

Complete the English language test

Then, you will have an English test which has three sections, speaking, reading, and writing.

The USCIS officer will determine your speaking abilities from your communication. For the reading test, the officer will give you three sentences to read out loud. You can look at some practice sentences here.

For the writing test, you must write three sentences and you can practice from this document. The content of the reading and writing test will be from various historical and civic topics.

Complete the civics test

After the English test, you will have the civics test. This test is on the history and values of the US. The officer will ask 10 questions and you must answer 6 of them correctly. This document has around 100 questions with which you can practice.

If you fail any of these tests, you can retake them once again 60 to 90 days after the first time. Failing any of them for the second time means that you have to restart your application.

Receive decision of USCIS

Following the processing of the application and the results of the interview, USCIS will make a decision. They will send a notice which can either be a denial or an approval of the application for citizenship.

If you receive a denial, they will explain the reasons why you are not eligible for citizenship. In case you think the decision was incorrect, you can appeal it. For an appeal, you have to file Form N-336, Request for a Hearing on a Decision in Naturalization Proceedings. File the document within 30 days of the USCIS decision or you cannot appeal anymore.

If USCIS approves your application, you can go onto the next step.

Take the Oath of Allegiance

It is impossible to become a US citizen without completing the Oath of Allegiance. You might be able to complete it on the same day as your interview, but if not, USCIS will send you a notice about when you can take it. It is best to attend the ceremony when USCIS schedules it, but if you cannot, you must notify them. To do this, file Form N-445, Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony. Attach a letter explaining why you cannot attend the ceremony at that time. USCIS will then review it and reschedule the ceremony.

You can take the oath only from a judge in a court. After you complete it, you receive the Certification of Naturalization. When you receive this certification, you are officially a US citizen and must return your Green Card.

Do I Have to Take the English Language Test?

In specific cases, USCIS might grant waivers for the English test. If you are 50 years or older and have been a permanent resident for 20 years, you can choose not to take the test (the 50/20 rule). Also, if you are 55 years or older and have been a permanent resident for 15 years, you can be exempt from it (the 55/15 rule).

Despite these, you will still need to take the civics test. Only if you are 65 years or older and have been a permanent resident for 20 years, USCIS will consider you for exemption of the civics test.

How Long Does it Take to Become a US Citizen?

It takes around 6 months to become a US citizen from the time you submit your application. However, since there are so many steps to complete to become a US citizen, the US citizenship processing time can be quite long. That is why, it is important to start the process as soon as you are eligible.

How Much Does it Cost to Become a US Citizen?

It costs $725 to become a US citizen. There are two main fees which you must pay when you apply for US citizenship. One fee is the citizenship application fee of $640 and the other is the biometric services fee of $85.

What if I cannot afford to pay the fees?

Since this fee is quite high, USCIS allows applicants to pay it by credit card. You can do this by filing Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transaction. Military applicants are exempt from paying the fees and applicants over 75 years old are exempt from the biometrics fee.

If you cannot afford the fee at all, you can apply to USCIS for a waiver. You should file Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver with your citizenship application and explain why you cannot afford it. Those who are on government assistance such as Medicaid are more likely to be exempt

What is the Difference Between a US Citizen and a US National?

Though to many it may sound as the same thing, they actually differ from each other. The main thing one should know before starting to spot the differences between both is that:

All US citizens are automatically US nationals, but not all US nationals are automatically US citizens.

For people outside the United States the difference between a US national and a US citizen might seem unimportant, or one might not even spot there’s a difference at all. However, for those living or linked to the US this status is of special importance to their everyday life, since privileges and duties depend a lot on one’s status in the United States.

It sounds a bit of a cliche to many. But it is not. Just keep in mind that if you are a US citizen, then you are a US national too. Which means you cannot be a US citizen without being a US national first.

However, US nationality does not automatically grant you with US citizenship.
Below find the definition and characteristics of both, to understand the way they differ from each other, and why it is important for one to know which status he or she holds.

What is a US citizen?

Usually a US citizen is considered an individual:

• who was born in the United States.
• who was born in Puerto Rico
• who was born in Guam
• who was born in the US. Virgin Islands
• who was born in the Northern Mariana Islands
• whose parent is a US. citizen.
• who has been naturalized as a US citizen

Privileges of being a US Citizen in addition to US nationality privileges

• The right to vote in elections, and
• Voting representation in Congress

What is a US National?

According to the Immigration and Nationality Act, a US national is a person born to a parent of “outlying possessions of the United States,” which territories include American Samoa and Swains Island.

Privileges of US nationals

A US national has the following privileges:

• consular protection of the US when abroad
• possession of US documentations (i.e. US passports)
• the right to reside and work in the US
• the right to apply for US citizenship by naturalization after three months of residency in the US under the same rules as a permanent resident

Do US Nationals have restrictions in comparison to US citizens?

US nationals also have restrictions due to absence of citizenship as:

• not entitled to voting representation in Congress
• not entitled to vote in Federal, state, or local elections (except in their place of birth)
• and though non-citizen US nationals can vote to send a delegate to the congress, that individual is a non-voting delegate

After Becoming a US Citizen – Applying for the US Passport

The US passport application process is not as complicated as you may think. Only follow the steps below in order to correctly file your US passport application:

Fulfill the correct form

There are three different forms, one of which you will have to fulfill in order to start your US passport application.

• Form DS-11. This form should be completed by first-time applicants, children under 16, applicants from 16 to 17, and anyone not eligible for from DS-82.
• Form DS-82. This form should be completed by adults renewing their passports.
• Form DS-5504. This form should be completed by applicants wishing to change their name within a year, correcting a passport error or replacing a limited validity passport.

Collect your supporting documents

The second step is collecting the required documents, which are:

• An original or certified copy of citizenship evidence and a photocopy of it.
• A government-issued photo identification document (ID), and a photocopy of it.
• 2″ by 2″ color passport photo
• Requirements for children under 16:
  • US birth certificate (also evidence of US citizenship)
  • Parental Consent
  • Parent’s Divorce/Custody decree (if applicable)
  • Parent’s ID
  • One photo

Pay the US passport fee

Passport fees change depending on a few factors, as: the age of the applicant, the reason why you are applying (first-time applicant, correction, renewal, etc.) and the additional services.

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