Unlock the World: The Ultimate Guide to Obtaining a Tourist Visa ApplicationAbbreviations

Abbreviations

In the process of obtaining a tourist visa application, it’s essential to understand various abbreviations and terms that may be encountered. Below is a list of common abbreviations used in visa applications:

• DS-160: This stands for “Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application.” It is the online form that most applicants must complete to apply for a nonimmigrant visa in the United States.
• USCIS: United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. This is the government agency responsible for administering immigration services.
• B1/B2: These are visa categories for temporary visitors to the United States for business (B1) or pleasure (B2).
• ESTA: Electronic System for Travel Authorization. This is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program.
• VWP: Visa Waiver Program. This program allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the United States without a visa for up to 90 days.
• DOJ: Department of Justice. This department is responsible for the enforcement of federal laws, including those related to immigration.
• DHS: Department of Homeland Security. This department oversees immigration and customs enforcement, among other security-related functions.
• NIV: Nonimmigrant Visa. This refers to a visa category that allows individuals to enter the United States temporarily.
• IV: Immigrant Visa. This type of visa is for individuals seeking to live permanently in the United States.
• POA: Power of Attorney. This is a legal document that authorizes someone to act on another person’s behalf in legal or business matters.
• SEVIS: Student and Exchange Visitor Information System. This system tracks and monitors the status of international students and exchange visitors in the United States.
• I-20: Form I-20 is a document issued by the school you are attending that certifies your eligibility for a student visa (F-1).
• I-94: Form I-94 is a document that indicates your status in the United States and the dates of your entry and exit.
• DS-260: This is the online application form for immigrants and refugees seeking to adjust their status or obtain an immigrant visa.
• NPC: National Processing Center. This is where visa applications are processed for the United States Department of State.
• NVC: National Visa Center. This is a part of the U.S. Department of State that manages immigrant visa applications worldwide.
• USC: United States Customs and Border Protection. This is the agency responsible for securing the nation’s borders and facilitating lawful international travel.
• EVUS: Electronic Visa Update System. This system is used by nationals of countries under the Visa Waiver Program to update their information before traveling to the United States.
• H1B: This is a nonimmigrant visa in the United States allowing U.S. employers to temporarily employ foreign workers in specialty occupations.
• L1: This is a nonimmigrant visa category for intracompany transferees who have been employed abroad in a managerial or executive capacity, or have specialized knowledge.

Understanding these abbreviations can help streamline the visa application process and ensure that you have the necessary information to complete your application accurately and efficiently.