Non-Immigrant Visas
Documents Required for Visa Applications
In order to be approved for a non-immigrant visa, applicants must satisfy two requirements. First they must demonstrate that they are qualified for the type of visa for which they are applying. Second they must satisfy the interviewing officer that they will leave the United States at the end of their authorized stay. Please find below suggested documents that may assist an applicant in demonstrating their qualifications and intent to return. However, please be aware that documents only support a visa application. A visa is neither issued nor refused based solely on documentation. We recommend that the applicant appear for the interview prepared to present the following documents:
Status | Suggested Document Examples |
All candidates | An itemized bank or investment statement going back at least three months. No credit card statements, tax statements, or cellular telephone statements, please. |
Non-French Citizens | Temporary residence card (carte/titre de sejour). If you have recently renewed your residence card, present the expired original card as well as the paper documenting the extension of validity. The original card is required. |
Permanent Employees | Original work contract and pay statements for the past three months. A letter from your employer on original letterhead, stating how long you have been employed, in what capacity, what your basic monthly salary is, and how long you will be away from work. If you are traveling on business, your letter should also (in addition to the elements listed above) detail the nature of your business, including the addresses of US companies or offices you will visit. |
Self-Employed Applicants | Evidence of self-employment, such as a detailed letter from the bank which handles your business account or a letter from your accounting firm. Such letters should specify your company's name, when your account was opened, the recent balance, and your approximate annual turnover. Proof that your business is officially registered. |
Farmers | Evidence of ownership of your farm (e.g. a copy of the deed or a bank letter). |
Students and Scholars | A letter from an institution official clearly stating your level of study, purpose and period of accepted travel and demonstrated intent to return and complete your studies. Proof of funds for intended studies. |
Conference Attendees | Copy of conference program, letter of acceptance to conference, curriculum vitae, copy of conference paper and comments received from peer review for acceptance, proof of sponsorship by university or lab (e.g. travel orders or ordre de mission), work contract or proof of scholarship, and bank/pay statements showing funds for studies. |
Property Owners | Evidence of ownership, such as a title deed and/or a mortgage payment receipt. |
Pensioners | Evidence of pension and/or property ownership. |
Unemployed or Casually Employed Spouses | A letter from your husband/wife's employer to demonstrate your ability to support your travel and your Livret de Famille or marriage certificate and birth certificates for any children. |