Types of Visas-Manual Needs

 

A B C D E F G H I J K L M O P Q R T

 

Ability

Merit

Agriculture

Nurses

Air or Ship Crew

Religious

Art, Sports or Culture

Student

Business Travel

Trainee

Diplomatic

Transfer

Exchange

Transit

Extraordinary Ability

Treaty Investor

Fiancé/Fiancée

Treaty Trader

International Organizations

Tourist/Pleasure

L Petition

Vocational

Media

NAFTA

Specialty Occupation (Australia Only)

 

Please note*  DS-157:  All male applicants for U.S. visas aged 16 to 45 are required to include form DS-157 in their application. This requirement is in addition to other requirements, without regard to the nationality of the applicant. Form DS-157 is required of all adults, male or female, from a country listed by the U.S. government as a State Sponsor of Terrorism. For applicants from these countries, the sole exception is if the applicant is 15 years of age or younger.

Letter

Type of Visa

Appointment Requirements

Manual Packages

Consulates

A1/A2

Ambassador, Diplomat or Conoff/ Other Foreign Government Official

Ø       DS-156 (application form).

Ø       Valid Passport (at least 6 months).

Ø       Proof of legal status in Canada: original or certified copy.

Ø       One passport-size photo.

Ø       Older passports containing previous U.S. visas.

Ø       Original diplomatic note from employing Embassy, describing the nature of work and length of stay in the U.S.

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

 

Calgary

Halifax

Montreal

Ottawa

Quebec City

Toronto

Vancouver

A3

Personal Employee of A1/A2

Ø       DS-156 (application form).

Ø       Valid Passport (at least 6 months).

Ø       Proof of legal status in Canada: original or certified copy.

Ø       One passport-size photo.

Ø       Older passports containing previous U.S. visas.

Ø       Original diplomatic note from employing Embassy, describing the nature of work and length of stay in the U.S.

Ø       Proof of ties/residence in country outside of U.S. which they have no intentions of abandoning.

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

Calgary

Halifax

Montreal

Ottawa

Quebec City

Toronto

Vancouver

B1/B2

Visitor For Business/Visitor for Pleasure

Ø       DS-156 (application form).

Ø       Valid Passport (at least 6 months).

Ø       Proof of legal status in Canada: original or certified copy.

Ø       One passport-size photo.

Ø       Older passports containing previous visas.

Ø       Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.

Ø       US$100 non-refundable application fee.

Ø       Reciprocity fee (if applicable).

Ø       Proof of sufficient funds to cover all expenses while in U. S.

Ø       Proof of ties/residence in a country outside U.S. which they have no intention of abandoning.

Ø       Evidence which shows purpose of trip.

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

Calgary

Halifax

Montreal

Ottawa

Quebec City

Toronto

Vancouver

C1

Alien in Transit

Ø       DS-156 (application form).

Ø       Valid Passport (at least 6 months).

Ø       Proof of legal status in Canada: original or certified copy.

Ø       One passport-size photo.

Ø       Older passports containing previous visas.

Ø       Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.

Ø       US$100 non-refundable application fee.

Ø       Reciprocity fee (if applicable).

Ø       Travel itinerary.

Ø       Proof of sufficient funds to cover all expenses while in the U.S.

Ø       Proof of ties/residence outside the U.S. which have no intentions of abandoning.

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

Calgary

Halifax

Montreal

Ottawa

Quebec City

Toronto

Vancouver

C1/D

Alien Crewman in Transit

Ø       DS-156 (application form).

Ø       Valid Passport (at least 6 months).

Ø       Proof of legal status in Canada: original or certified copy.

Ø       One passport-size photo.

Ø       Older passports containing previous visas.

Ø       Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.

Ø       US$100 non-refundable application fee.

Ø       Reciprocity fee (if applicable).

Ø       Letter/contract from employing company stating the length of work and if possible, places of entry into U.S.

Ø       Proof of sufficient funds to cover all expenses while in U.S.

Ø       Proof of ties/residence in country outside U.S. which have no intentions of abandoning.

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

Calgary

Halifax

Montreal

Ottawa

Quebec City

Toronto

Vancouver

C2

Alien in Transit-United Nations

Ø       DS-156 (application form).

Ø       Valid Passport (at least 6 months).

Ø       Proof of legal status in Canada: original or certified copy.

Ø       One passport-size photo.

Ø       Older passports containing previous visas.

Ø       Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.

Ø       Original diplomatic note from employing Embassy / International Organization, describing the nature of work and length of stay in the U.S.

Ø       Reciprocity fee (if applicable).

Ø       Airline tickets or travel itinerary.

Ø       Proof of sufficient funds to cover all expenses while in the U.S.

Ø       Proof of ties/residence outside the U.S. which you have no intentions of abandoning.

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

Calgary

Halifax

Montreal

Ottawa

Quebec City

Toronto

Vancouver

C3

Transit- Foreign Official or Family
  • DS-156 (application form).
  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months).
  • Proof of legal status in Canada: original or certified copy.
  • One passport-size photo.
  • Older passports containing previous visas.
  • Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.
  • Original diplomatic note from employing Embassy / International Organization, describing the nature of work and length of stay in the U.S.
  • Airline tickets or travel itinerary.

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

Calgary

Halifax

Montreal

Ottawa

Quebec City

Toronto

Vancouver

D

Crew Member- Ship or Aircraft Crew

Ø       DS-156 (application form).

Ø       Valid Passport (at least 6 months).

Ø       Proof of legal status in Canada: original or certified copy.

Ø       One passport-size photo.

Ø       Older passports containing previous visas.

Ø       Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.

Ø       US$100 non-refundable application fee.

Ø       Reciprocity fee (if applicable).

Ø       Letter/contract from employing company stating the length of work and if possible, places of entry into U.S.

Ø       Proof of sufficient funds to cover all expenses while in the U.S.

Ø       Proof of ties/residence outside the U.S. which you have no intentions of abandoning.

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

Calgary

Halifax

Montreal

Ottawa

Quebec City

Toronto

Vancouver

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

E1/E2

Treaty Trader/Treaty Investor

The visa category "Professionals Under the North American Free Trade Agreement" is available only to citizens of Canada and Mexico, under the terms of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). The spouse and children of the E-Treaty Trader or Treaty Investor are granted E status just like the principal. The spouses of E-visa holders are authorized employment with an "employment authorized" endorsement from the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Detailed Evisa Information

The following documents make up the application:

Ø       Form DS-156 for all applicants and dependents, with a passport photo for each.

Ø       Blank forms DS-156 are available without charge at all U.S. Consular offices however you are strongly recommended to fill out the online version of the form and then print it including the barcode. This will expedite the process.

Ø       Page 3 of the supplement must be completed for each applicant who is employed in the business.

Ø       A cover letter summarizing the requirements for an E visa and how the applicant(s) fulfills them.

Ø       Supporting documentation as outlined below.

Ø       Proper payment included for each of the applicants and dependents.

Ø       Note: Only spouses and children under 21 may apply as dependents.

Payment Instructions:

 

The applicant must submit either a certified check or international money order payable to the U.S. Consulate General Toronto in the amount of US$100 or the receipt showing that the payment was made at a Scotia Bank (for a sample receipt click here) branch in Ontario. We cannot accept attorney's checks, personal checks, or U.S. Postal money orders negotiable only in the U.S.

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

Toronto

 

Vancouver (Jan 6,2006)

 

If the Visa is in process or approved the other consulates will handle dependent applications of E1/E2

 

 

 

 

 

E3

 

Specialty Occupation (Australian Nationals Only)
  • DS-156 (application form).
  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months).
  • Proof of legal status in Canada: original or certified copy.
  • One passport-size photo.
  • Older passports containing previous visas.
  • Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.
  • US$100 non-refundable application fee.
  • Reciprocity fee (if applicable)
  •  I-797 (either I-797A or I-797B) (I-797C is not acceptable) must be original and full page. Appointment should be made ten days prior to the validity date on the I-797 or after the validity date has passed.
  • Current employment letter indicating the nature of work, duration and salary.
  • Recent paystub/payslip.
  • Copy of I-129 petition completed by employer and filed with D.H.S.
  • Copy of approved LCA if applicable.
  • If previously under J-1 in U.S. applicant needs waiver of 2-year foreign residence rule.
  • Evidence of qualifications must original or certified copy. Consular officers in Canada may refuse to issue a visa to H-1B applicants if their education and/or work experience is solely or predominantly from a country other than the U.S. or Canada.

 

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

 

Calgary

Halifax

Montreal

Ottawa

Quebec City

Toronto

Vancouver

E3D

 

Spouse or Child of E3
  • DS-156 (application form).
  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months).
  • Proof of legal status in Canada: original or certified copy.
  • One passport-size photo.
  • Older passports containing previous visas.
  • Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.
  • US$100 non-refundable application fee.
  • Reciprocity fee (if applicable).
  • Main applicant's documents (copy).
  • Proof of dependent's relationship to main applicant (must be original or certified copy - if English translation, must be a certified translation.).

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

 

Calgary

Halifax

Montreal

Ottawa

Quebec City

Toronto

Vancouver

 

F1

Student

Ø       DS-156 (application form).

Ø       DS-158 (contact information and work history).

Ø       Valid Passport (at least 6 months).

Ø       Proof of legal status in Canada: original or certified copy.

Ø       One passport-size photo.

Ø       Older passports containing previous visas.

Ø       Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.

Ø       US$100 non-refundable application fee.

Ø       Reciprocity fee (if applicable).

Ø       USCIS Form I-20 (form given by the school)

Ø       Proof of sufficient funds to cover all expenses while in U.S.

Ø       Proof of ties/residence in country outside the U.S. which have no intentions of abandoning.

Ø       Important information about SEVIS fees and the 30-day policy

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

DS-158

Calgary

Halifax

Montreal

Ottawa

Quebec City

Toronto

Vancouver

F2

Spouse/Child of F1

Ø       DS-156 (application form).

Ø       DS-158 (contact information and work history).

Ø       Valid Passport (at least 6 months).

Ø       Proof of legal status in Canada: original or certified copy.

Ø       One passport-size photo.

Ø       Older passports containing previous visas.

Ø       Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.

Ø       US$100 non-refundable application fee.

Ø       Reciprocity fee (if applicable).

Ø       Main applicants (F-1) documents (copy).

Ø       Proof of dependent's relationship to main applicant (original or certified copy - if English translation, must be a certified translation).

Ø       Important information about SEVIS fees and the 30-day policy

Cover Letter

DS-158

DS-157 (if needed)

Calgary

Halifax

Montreal

Ottawa

Quebec City

Toronto

Vancouver

G1

Permanent Representative to International Organization
  • DS-156 (application form).
  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months).
  • Proof of legal status in Canada: original or certified copy.
  • One passport-size photo.
  • Older passports containing previous visas.
  • Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.
  • Original letter/employment contract from the employing International Organization describing nature of work and length of stay in U.S.

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

Calgary

Halifax

Montreal

Ottawa

Quebec City

Toronto

Vancouver

G2

Temporary Representative to International Organization
  • DS-156 (application form).
  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months).
  • Proof of legal status in Canada: original or certified copy.
  • One passport-size photo.
  • Older passports containing previous visas.
  • Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.
  • Original letter/employment contract from the employing International Organization describing nature of work and length of stay in U.S.
  • Proof of ties/residence in country outside of U.S.

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

Calgary

Halifax

Montreal

Ottawa

Quebec City

Toronto

Vancouver

G3

Representative Nonrec/Member of International Organization
  • DS-156 (application form).
  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months).
  • Proof of legal status in Canada: original or certified copy.
  • One passport-size photo.
  • Older passports containing previous visas.
  • Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.
  • Original letter/employment contract from the employing International Organization describing nature of work and length of stay in U.S.

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

Calgary

Halifax

Montreal

Ottawa

Quebec City

Toronto

Vancouver

 

 

 

 

G4

Employee of International Organization and Family
  • DS-156 (application form).
  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months).
  • Proof of legal status in Canada: original or certified copy.
  • One passport-size photo.
  • Older passports containing previous visas.
  • Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.
  • Reciprocity fee (if applicable).
  • Original letter/contract from the employing International Organization,describing the nature of work and length of stay in U.S.
  • Bronner letter.
  • Proof of sufficient funds to cover all expenses while in the U.S.
  • Proof of ties/residence in country outside U.S.
  • Proof of previous status in the U.S.

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

Calgary

Halifax

Montreal

Ottawa

Quebec City

Toronto

Vancouver

G5

Personal Employee of G1/2/3/4
  • DS-156 (application form).
  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months).
  • Proof of legal status in Canada: original or certified copy.
  • One passport-size photo.
  • Older passports containing previous visas.
  • Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.
  • Reciprocity fee (if applicable).
  • Original letter/employment contract from the employing International Organization describing nature of work and length of stay in U.S.
  • Proof of ties/residence in country outside of U.S.

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

Calgary

Halifax

Montreal

Ottawa

Quebec City

Toronto

Vancouver

 

H1

Temporary Worker of Distinguished Merit & Ability
  • DS-156 (application form).
  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months).
  • One passport-size photo.
  • Older passports containing previous visas.
  • Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.
  • US$100 non-refundable application fee.
  • Reciprocity fee (if applicable)
  • I-797 (either I-797A or I-797B - I-797C is not acceptable) Must be original and full page. Appointment should be made ten days prior to the validity date on the I-797 or after the validity date has passed.
  • Current employment letter indicating the nature of work, duration and salary.
  • Recent paystub/payslip.
  • Copy of I-129 petition completed by employer and filed with D.H.S.
  • Copy of approved LCA if applicable.
  • If previously under J-1 in U.S. applicant needs waiver of 2 year foreign residence rule.

Evidence of qualifications must be original or certified copy. Consular officers in Canada may refuse to issue a visa to H-1B applicants if their education and /or work experience is solely or predominantly from a country other than the U.S. or Canada.

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

I-129 (if don’t already have one)

Calgary

Montreal

Ottawa

Toronto

Vancouver

Halifax (renewals only)

Quebec City (only if the applicant resides in the Quebec City consular area)

 

H1A/H1B

Nurses (Temporary)/Distinguished Merit (Other than Nurse)
  • DS-156 (application form).
  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months).
  • Proof of legal status in Canada: original or certified copy.
  • One passport-size photo.
  • Older passports containing previous visas.
  • Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.
  • US$100 non-refundable application fee.
  • Reciprocity fee (if applicable) I-797 (either I-797A or I-797B) (I-797C is not acceptable) Must be original and full page. Appointment should be made ten days prior to the validity date on the I-797 or after the validity date has passed.
  • Current employment letter indicating the nature of work, duration and salary.
  • Recent paystub/payslip.
  • Copy of I-129 petition completed by employer and filed with D.H.S.

 

Copy of approved LCA if applicable.

If previously under J-1 in U.S. applicant needs waiver of 2-year foreign residence rule. Evidence of qualifications must original or certified copy. Consular officers in Canada may refuse to issue a visa to H-1B applicants if their education and /or work experience is solely or predominantly from a country other than the U.S. or Canada.

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

I-129 (if don’t already have one)

Calgary

Montreal

Ottawa

Toronto

Vancouver

Halifax (renewals only)

Quebec City (only if the applicant resides in the Quebec City consular area)

 

H2/

H2A/H2B

Temporary Worker Performing Agricultural Services /

Temporary Agricultural Worker /

Non-Agricultural Temporary Worker
  • DS-156 (application form).
  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months).
  • Proof of legal status in Canada: original or certified copy.
  • One passport-size photo.
  • Older passports containing previous visas.
  • Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.
  • US$100 non-refundable application fee.
  • Reciprocity fee (if applicable).
  • I-797(either I-797Aor I-797B) (I-797C is not acceptable) Must be original and full page. Appointment should be made ten days prior to the validity date on the I-797 or after the validity date has passed.
  • Current employment letter indicating the nature of work, duration and salary.
  • Recent paystub/payslip.
  • Copy of I-129 petition completed by employer and filed with D.H.S.
  • Copy of approved LCA if applicable.
  • If previously under J-1 in U.S. applicant needs waiver of 2 year foreign residence rule.
  • Evidence of qualifications must original or certified copy. Consular officers in Canada may refuse to issue a visa to H-1B applicants if their education and /or work experience is solely or predominantly from a country other than the U.S. or Canada.

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

I-129 (if don’t already have one)

Calgary

Montreal

Ottawa

Toronto

Vancouver

Halifax (renewals only)

Quebec City (only if the applicant resides in the Quebec City consular area)

 

 

 

 

 

 

H3

Trainee
  • DS-156 (application form).
  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months).
  • Proof of legal status in Canada: original or certified copy.
  • One passport-size photo.
  • Older passports containing previous visas.
  • Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.
  • US$100 non-refundable application fee.
  • Reciprocity fee (if applicable)I-797(either I-797Aor I-797B) (I-797C is not acceptable) Must be original and full page. Appointment should be made ten days prior to the validity date on the I-797 or after the validity date has passed.
  • Current employment letter indicating the nature of work, duration and salary.
  • Recent paystub/payslip.
  • Copy of I-129 petition completed by employer and filed with D.H.S.
  • Copy of approved LCA if applicable.
  • If previously under J-1 in U.S. applicant needs waiver of 2 year foreign residence rule.
  • Evidence of qualifications must original or certified copy. Consular officers in Canada may refuse to issue a visa to H-1B applicants if their education and/or work experience is solely or predominantly from a country other than the U.S. or Canada.

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

I-129 (if don’t already have one)

Calgary

Montreal

Ottawa

Toronto

Vancouver

Halifax (renewals only)

Quebec City (only if the applicant resides in the Quebec City consular area)

H4

Spouse/Child of H-1A/1B/2A/2B/3
  • DS-156 (application form).
  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months).
  • Proof of legal status in Canada: original or certified copy.
  • One passport-size photo.
  • Older passports containing previous visas.
  • Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.
  • US$100 non-refundable application fee.
  • Reciprocity fee (if applicable).
  • Main applicant's documents (copy).
  • Proof of dependent's relationship to main applicant (must be original or certified copy - if English translation, must be a certified translation.).

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

Calgary

Montreal

Ottawa

Toronto

Vancouver

Halifax (renewals only)

Quebec City (only if the applicant resides in the Quebec City consular area)

 

I

Foreign Information Media and Family
  • DS-156 (application form).
  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months).
  • One passport-size photo.
  • Older passports containing previous visas.
  • Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.
  • US$100 non-refundable application fee.
  • Reciprocity fee (if applicable).
  • Proof of sufficient funds to cover all expenses while in the U.S.
  • Proof of ties/residence in a country outside the U.S., which have no intentions of abandoning.
  • Employment letter stating qualifications as a foreign journalist and intended length of stay.
  • If applicant is freelance journalist, a valid contract will be required.

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

Calgary

Montreal

Ottawa

Toronto

Vancouver

Halifax (renewals only)

Quebec City (only if the applicant resides in the Quebec City consular area)

J1

Exchange Visitor

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

DS-158

 

 

Calgary

Halifax

Montreal

Ottawa

Quebec City

Toronto

Vancouver

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

J2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spouse/Child of J1
  • DS-156 (application form).
  • DS-158 (contact information and work history).
  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months).
  • One passport-size photo.
  • Older passports containing previous visas.
  • Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.
  • US$100 non-refundable application fee.
  • Reciprocity fee (if applicable).
  • Main applicant's documents (copy).
  • Proof of dependent's relationship to main applicant, (must be original or certified copy - if English translation, must be certified translation).

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

DS-158

 

Calgary

Halifax

Montreal

Ottawa

Quebec City

Toronto

Vancouver

K

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fiancé/Fiancée Visa
  • DS-156 (application form).
  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months).
  • One passport-size photo.
  • Older passports containing previous visas.
  • Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.
  • US$100 non-refundable application fee.
  • Reciprocity Fee (if applicable)

 

Cover Letter

DS-156K

DS-157 (if needed)

 

 

Vancouver

Montreal

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

L1

Inter-Company Transferee (Executive, Manager)
  • DS-156 (application form).
  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months).
  • One passport-size photo.
  • Older passports containing previous visas.
  • Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.
  • $100 U.S. non-refundable application fee.
  • Reciprocity fee (if applicable).
  • I-797 original and full page.
  • Current employment letter indicating the nature of work, duration and salary.
  • Recent paystub/payslips.
  • Copy of I-129 petition completed by employer and filed with D.H.S.
  • Proof applicant employed 1 out of 3 years abroad by the employer in an executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge capacity.
  • Proof employer abroad still exists.
  • Waiver of 2 year foreign residence rule if previously under J1 status.
  • For other L-Visa information, please click here.

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

I-129 (if don’t already have one)

Calgary

Montreal

Ottawa

Toronto

Vancouver

Halifax (renewals only)

Quebec City (only if the applicant resides in the Quebec City consular area)

 

L

Blanket Petition
  • DS-156 (application form).
  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months).
  • One passport-size photo.
  • Older passports containing previous visas.
  • Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.
  • US$100 non-refundable application fee.
  • Reciprocity fee (if applicable).
  • I-797, approval Blanket L.
  • Letter from employer stating position.
  • I-129 (3 copies).
  • Proof of qualifications to do job.
  • $500 fraud prevention and detection fee - effective March 8, 2005

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

I-129 (3 copies)

Calgary

Montreal

Ottawa

Toronto

Vancouver

Halifax (renewals only)

Quebec City (only if the applicant resides in the Quebec City consular area)

 

L2

Spouse/Child of L1
  • DS-156 (application form).
  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months).
  • One passport-size photo.
  • Older passports containing previous visas.
  • Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.
  • $100 U.S. non-refundable application fee.
  • Reciprocity fee (if applicable).
  • Main applicant's documents (copy).
  • Proof of dependent's relationship to main applicant (must be original or certified copy - if English translation, must be a certified translation).
  • The spouses of L visa holders - but not their dependent children - are authorized employment with an "employment authorized" endorsement from the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services.

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

Calgary

Montreal

Ottawa

Toronto

Vancouver

Halifax (renewals only)

Quebec City (only if the applicant resides in the Quebec City consular area)

 

M1

Visitor for Vocational/Technical Training
  • DS-156 (application form).
  • DS-158(contact information and work history).
  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months).
  • One passport-size photo.
  • Older passports containing previous visas.
  • Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.
  • US$100 non-refundable application fee.
  • Reciprocity fee (if applicable).
  • USCIS Form I-20
  • Proof of sufficient funds to cover all expenses while in U.S.
  • Proof of ties/residence in country outside U.S. which have no intentions of abandoning.
  • Important information about SEVIS fees and the 30-day policy

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

DS-158

Calgary

Halifax

Montreal

Ottawa

Quebec City

Toronto

Vancouver

 

M2

Spouse/Child of M-1
  • DS-156 (application form).
  • DS-158 (contact information and work history).
  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months).
  • One passport-size photo.
  • Older passports containing previous visas.
  • Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.
  • US$100 non-refundable application fee.
  • Reciprocity fee (if applicable).
  • Main applicant's documents (copy).
  • Proof of dependent's relationship to main applicant, (must be original or certified copy - if English translation, must be a certified translation).
  • Important information about SEVIS fees and the 30-day policy

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

DS-158

Calgary

Halifax

Montreal

Ottawa

Quebec City

Toronto

Vancouver

 

O1/O2

Alien of Extraordinary Ability /

Alien Accompanying O-1 Alien
  • DS-156 (application form).
  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months).
  • One passport-size photo.
  • Older passports containing previous visas.
  • Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.
  • US$100 non-refundable application fee.
  • Reciprocity fee (if applicable).
  • I-797 must be original and full page.
  • Current employment letter indicating the nature of work, duration and salary.
  • Copy of I-129 petition completed by employer and filed with D.H.S.

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

I-129

Calgary

Montreal

Ottawa

Toronto

Vancouver

Halifax (renewals only)

Quebec City (only if the applicant resides in the Quebec City consular area)

 

O3

Spouse/Child of O-1 or O-2 Alien
  • DS-156 (application form).
  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months).
  • One passport-size photo.
  • Older passports containing previous visas.
  • Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.
  • US$100 non-refundable application fee.
  • Reciprocity fee (if applicable).
  • Main applicant's documents (copy).
  • Proof of dependent's relationship to the main dependent, (must be original or certified copy - if English translation, must be a certified translation).

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

Calgary

Montreal

Ottawa

Toronto

Vancouver

Halifax (renewals only)

Quebec City (only if the applicant resides in the Quebec City consular area)

 

P1/P2/P3

Athlete-Specific Event or Entertainment Group/ Artist - Reciprocal Exchange/

Culturally Unique Artist

Ø       DS-156 (application form).

Ø       Valid Passport (at least 6 months).

Ø       One passport-size photo.

Ø       Older passports containing previous visas.

Ø       Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.

Ø       US$100 non-refundable application fee.

Ø       Reciprocity fee (if applicable).

Ø       I-797 must be original and full page.

Ø       Current employment letter indicating the nature of work, duration and salary.

Ø       I-129 petition completed by employer and filed with D.H.S.

Ø       Evidence of qualifications, must be original or certified copy.

Ø       Proof of ties/residence in a country outside the U.S., which have no intentions of abandoning.

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

I-129 (if they don’t already have one)

Calgary

Montreal

Ottawa

Toronto

Vancouver

Halifax (renewals only)

Quebec City (only if the applicant resides in the Quebec City consular area)

 

 

P4

Spouse/Child of P-1, P-2, or P-3

Ø       DS-156 (application form).

Ø       Valid Passport (at least 6 months).

Ø       One passport-size photo.

Ø       Older passports containing previous visas.

Ø       Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.

Ø       $100 U.S. non-refundable application fee.

Ø       Reciprocity fee (if applicable).

Ø       Main applicant's documents (copy).

o         Proof of dependent's relationship to main applicant, (must be original or certified copy - if English translation, must be a certified translation).

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

 

Calgary

Montreal

Ottawa

Toronto

Vancouver

Halifax (renewals only)

Quebec City (only if the applicant resides in the Quebec City consular area)

 

 

Q1

International Cultural Exchange

Ø       DS-156 (application form).

Ø       Valid Passport (at least 6 months).

Ø       One passport-size photo.

Ø       Older passports containing previous visas.

Ø       Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.

Ø       US$100 non-refundable application fee.

Ø       Reciprocity fee (if applicable).

Ø       Copy of I-129 petition completed by employer and filed with D.H.S. Q attachment.

Ø       Proof of sufficient funds to cover all expenses while in U.S.

Ø       Proof of ties/residence in country outside the U.S., which have no intentions of abandoning.

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

I-129 (if they don’t already have one)

Calgary

Montreal

Ottawa

Toronto

Vancouver

Halifax (renewals only)

Quebec City (only if the applicant resides in the Quebec City consular area)

 

 

Q2

Spouse/Child of Q1 Alien

Ø       DS-156 (application form).

Ø       Valid Passport (at least 6 months).

Ø       One passport-size photo.

Ø       Older passports containing previous visas.

Ø       Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.

Ø       US$100 non-refundable application fee.

Ø       Reciprocity fee (if applicable).

Ø       Main applicant's documents (copy).

Ø       Proof of dependent's relationship to main applicant, (must be original or certified copy - if English translation, must be a certified translation).

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

Calgary

Montreal

Ottawa

Toronto

Vancouver

Halifax (renewals only)

Quebec City (only if the applicant resides in the Quebec City consular area)

 

 

R1/R2

Alien in Religious Occupation/ Spouse/Child of R-1 Alien

Ø       DS-156 (application form).

Ø       Valid Passport (at least 6 months).

Ø       One passport-size photo.

Ø       Older passports containing previous visas.

Ø       Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.

Ø       US$100 non-refundable application fee.

Ø       Reciprocity fee (if applicable).

Ø       Proof of membership in the religious organization.

Ø       Proof of the organization's tax-exempt status.

Ø       Letter from the organization describing the nature of the employment and length of intended stay in the U.S.

Ø       Applicant must demonstrate they have work experience in their home country with the same religious organization they will represent in U.S.

Ø       If have I-797 must bring original.

 

Cover Letter

DS-157 (if needed)

Calgary

Montreal

Ottawa

Toronto

Vancouver

Halifax (renewals only)

Quebec City (only if the applicant resides in the Quebec City consular area)

 

TN

NAFTA

Available to only citizens of Canada and Mexico.  Canadians do not need visas and are processed at the point of entry.  Mexicans do need visas.  In short, the TN visa has the same requirements as the H1B.

 

Qualifications for NAFTA:

1.       The profession is recognized under NAFTA.

2.       The alien possesses the specific criteria for that profession.

3.       The prospective position requires someone in that professional capacity.

4.       The alien is going to work for a U.S. employer.

For Mexicans requesting TN visa:

Same requirements as a H1B visa applicant.  Click here for H1B info.

For Canadians requesting TN status:

1.       Go to a US point of entry.

2.       Request TN status.

3.       Provide a copy of the applicant's college degree and employment records, which establish qualification for the prospective job.

4.       Provide a letter from the prospective U.S.-based employer offering him/her a job in the United States.

a.       This job must be one which is included on the list of professions under NAFTA, Appendix 1603.D.1.

5.       Pay a fee of US$50.

  • Canadian citizens are not required to obtain a visa, but instead receive "TN" status with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) at the port of entry.
  • The "TN" status will only be granted if the period of stay is temporary.

For more information, please click here.

 

None

Calgary

Halifax

Montreal

Ottawa

Quebec City

Toronto

Vancouver

 

TD

Spouse/Child of TN
  • DS-156 (application form).
  • Valid Passport (at least 6 months).
  • Proof of legal status in Canada: original or certified copy.
  • One passport-size photo.
  • Older passports containing previous visas.
  • Documents substantiating previous legal status in U.S.
  • US$100 non-refundable application fee.
  • Reciprocity fee (if applicable).

·          Main applicant's documents (copy).

·          Proof of dependent's relationship to main applicant (must be original or certified copy - if English translation, must be a certified translation.).

Cover Letter

DS-156

DS-157 (if applicable)

 

Calgary

Halifax

Montreal

Ottawa

Quebec City

Toronto

Vancouver