WHAT IS A VISA?
Citizens of most countries require a visa to enter the United States.
A visa allows a foreign citizen to travel to a U.S. port of entry and request permission from a Customs and Border Protection Inspector of the Department of Homeland Security to enter the United States. Only the Inspector has the authority to admit you into the United States. He or she decides how long you may stay for any particular visit. Note: A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States.