How to Apply for a US Visa: A Complete Guide The US has long been seen as a place of opportunity, drawing people from all over the world who want to live, work, or study there. But getting a US visa can be a difficult and complicated process. Anyosatta,kinghne thinking about taking this route needs to be aware of the complexities surrounding the US visa application process. Knowing the different kinds of visas that are available—which can be roughly divided into immigrant and non-immigrant visas—is the first step in the process. While non-immigrant visas are designed for people looking to temporarily enter the country for reasons like business, education, or tourism, immigrant visas are meant for people who want to live in the US permanently.