Visa types
US visas fall into two main groups: nonimmigrant visas for temporary visits with a specific purpose such as tourism, business or study, and immigrant visas for permanent residence. Our services focus on the most requested nonimmigrant visas:
Visit & business B1/B2
Tourism, visiting relatives, medical treatment, meetings and business conferences.
Academic study F1
Study at a university, college or language school certified by SEVP.
Exchange J1
Exchange, research and training programs approved through a sponsor.
Vocational study M1
Study in vocational and technical, non-academic programs.
Visitor visa B1/B2
It is usually issued as a combined visa covering both purposes: B1 for business and B2 for tourism and visits.
What it allows
- Tourism, vacations and visiting family and friends.
- Medical treatment.
- Attending scientific, professional and business conferences.
- Consulting with business associates and negotiating contracts.
- Short recreational courses that do not count toward a degree.
What it does not allow
- Employment or payment from a US source.
- Study for academic credit.
- Permanent residence.
Read more: B1 vs B2: what is the difference?
Student visa F1
The F1 visa is for students admitted to a US institution certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). You can only apply after you are admitted and the school issues your Form I-20.
- You must pay the SEVIS fee (Form I-901) before the interview.
- The visa can be issued up to 365 days before your program start date.
- You may not enter the US on this visa more than 30 days before the program start date.
Prepare well: Preparing for the F1 visa interview.
Requirements by visa type
Documents vary by visa type and personal circumstances. These are the core requirements:
| Document | B1/B2 | F1 |
|---|---|---|
| Passport valid for at least six months | Required | Required |
| DS-160 confirmation page | Required | Required |
| Visa application fee receipt | Required | Required |
| Recent photo meeting the requirements | Required | Required |
| Form I-20 issued by the school | — | Required |
| SEVIS fee receipt | — | Required |
| Certificates and transcripts | If needed | Required |
| Proof of financial ability | Required | Required |
| Proof of ties to home (work, family, property) | Required | Required |
| Invitation or travel itinerary | If needed | — |
Application steps
- Choose the visa typePick the category that precisely matches your purpose of travel.
- Complete the DS-160On the official website, then print the confirmation page with the barcode.
- Pay the visa application feeFollowing the instructions of the embassy or consulate where you will interview.
- Book the interviewUsing your DS-160 confirmation number; you may book at any US embassy or consulate with available appointments.
- Prepare your documentsOrganize core and supporting documents for your visa type.
- Attend the interviewOn time, with all required documents.
- Receive your passportAfter a decision, through the delivery method used at your location.
The DS-160 form
The DS-160 is the online nonimmigrant visa application, completed in English on the official CEAC website. It is the foundation of your file, and the consular officer relies on it during the interview.
Save your Application ID as soon as you start: the session times out after about 20 minutes of inactivity, and you cannot retrieve your data without it.
Our detailed guide: How to fill out the DS-160 step by step.
Interview preparation
- Know your purpose and plan well, and explain them briefly and clearly.
- Review your DS-160 answers; any inconsistency with what you say weakens your file.
- Answer only the question asked, and with complete honesty.
- Keep your documents organized in one folder.
- Be ready to explain your ties to home: work, family and commitments.
Common mistakes to avoid
Inconsistent information
Form data that differs from your documents or interview answers.
Unclear purpose
Not being able to explain why, how long and how you will travel.
Memorized answers
Scripted answers sound unnatural and cost you credibility.
Careless details
Errors in your name, passport number or dates on the form.
Khatm visa services
File evaluation
We analyze your situation and identify strengths and gaps.
DS-160 completion
Accurate completion and a full review before submission.
Appointment booking
Booking your interview and tracking available dates.
Interview training
Practical mock sessions that build your confidence.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the visa process take?
It depends on appointment availability at your location; the Department of State publishes estimated wait times on its official website.
Can I apply outside Iraq?
Yes. You can book your interview at any US embassy or consulate with available appointments, following its official instructions.
Can I work on a B1/B2 visa?
No. This visa does not allow employment or payment from a US source.
Is the visa validity the same as the length of stay?
No. Validity is the period during which you may travel and request entry; your permitted stay is set by border officials on arrival and recorded in your I-94.
What if I was refused before?
First understand the reason. A refusal under section 214(b), for example, is not permanent, and you can reapply with a new application after strengthening your file and as your circumstances change.
Official sources
- US Visas — U.S. Department of Statetravel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas.html
- DS-160 online application (CEAC)ceac.state.gov/genniv
- U.S. Embassy & Consulate in Iraq — Visas and appointmentsiq.usembassy.gov/visas
- SEVIS fee payment (Form I-901)www.fmjfee.com
- Visa appointment wait times — Department of Statetravel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/global-visa-wait-times.html
- Study in the States — DHSstudyinthestates.dhs.gov