Complete process to go to the USA
The United States of America (USA) is one of the most desired destinations for people worldwide. With its advanced economy, world-class education system, diverse culture, and countless job opportunities, millions dream of living or working in America.
However, turning that dream into reality requires proper planning, preparation, and the right information. Below is a detailed, step-by-step, copyright-free guide explaining how you can legally go to the USA — for work, study, permanent residence, or travel.
1️⃣ Main Ways to Go to the USA
There are several legal and common ways to enter the United States. Each visa category has its own requirements, process, and timeframe.
1. Work Visa
For those who want to work in the USA, employment-based visas are the most common path.
Key types include:
H-1B Visa – For skilled professionals (IT, engineering, medicine, finance, etc.)
L-1 Visa – For employees of multinational companies being transferred to a US branch
H-2B Visa – For temporary or seasonal non-agricultural jobs
O-1 Visa – For individuals with extraordinary ability (scientists, artists, athletes, etc.)
2. Student Visa
F-1 Visa: For full-time academic study at a US college or university
M-1 Visa: For vocational or technical training programs
Students may also work part-time on campus under certain conditions.
3. Diversity Visa Lottery (DV Lottery / Green Card Lottery)
Every year, the US government offers permanent residency through a lottery system to citizens of eligible countries. (Bangladesh is currently not eligible, but some people qualify through marriage or birth in eligible countries.)
4. Family-Sponsored Visa
If your spouse, parents, siblings, or children are US citizens, they can sponsor you for immigration.
5. Immigrant Visa (Through Employment or Investment)
EB-1 / EB-2 / EB-3: For highly skilled workers or professionals
EB-5 Visa: For investors who invest $800,000 or more in a US business
6. Tourist or Visitor Visa (B-1/B-2)
For short-term travel, medical treatment, or business meetings.
2️⃣ Eligibility and Basic Requirements
🎓 Educational Qualifications
For most work and student visas, a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent is required. For unskilled jobs under H-2B, work experience may be enough.
💬 English Language Skills
English proficiency tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo English Test are often required, especially for students and professionals.
💰 Financial Proof
Applicants must prove financial stability:
Students must show they can cover tuition and living costs for at least one academic year.
For work visas, employers often cover most expenses, but some costs are borne by applicants.
3️⃣ Step-by-Step Process to Go to the USA
Step 1: Identify Your Purpose
Decide your goal — study, work, visit, or immigrate permanently.
Your visa type will depend on your purpose.
Step 2: Prepare Necessary Documents
Typical required documents include:
Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
Educational certificates and transcripts
Proof of work experience (if applicable)
Bank statement or financial documents
Passport-sized photo (2×2 inches, white background)
Visa application form (DS-160)
Invitation or sponsorship letter (if required)
Step 3: Complete the Online Application (DS-160 Form)
All non-immigrant visa applicants must complete the DS-160 form online:
🔗 https://ceac.state.gov
You’ll need to provide personal information, passport details, travel purpose, education, and employment history.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee
Most visa types (B, F, M, H, L) cost $185. Payments can be made online or through an authorized bank.
Step 5: Schedule an Interview
Applicants from Bangladesh must attend an interview at the US Embassy in Dhaka.
Book your appointment at:
🔗 https://www.ustraveldocs.com/
Step 6: Attend the Visa Interview
A consular officer will assess your purpose, eligibility, and likelihood of returning home.
Tips for the interview:
Answer clearly and honestly
Bring all supporting documents
Maintain confidence and professionalism
Afterward, your visa may be approved, refused, or sent for administrative processing.
Step 7: Receive Your Visa and Passport
Once approved, your passport will be returned with a visa stamp within a few days.
You can then book your flight and prepare for your journey.
4️⃣ After Arriving in the USA
At the Port of Entry
Immigration officers will check your visa and documents. Answer all questions truthfully and calmly.
Find Accommodation
You can stay temporarily in a hotel, hostel, or with friends/family.
Students should arrange university dorms or campus housing.
Apply for a Social Security Number (SSN)
An SSN is essential for work, banking, and taxes. Apply at your nearest Social Security office.
Open a Bank Account & Get a SIM Card
Having a local bank account and mobile number makes life easier.
Work Rules & Taxes
You can only work legally if your visa allows it.
Unauthorized work may lead to deportation or visa cancellation.
5️⃣ Pathways to Permanent Residency (Green Card or Citizenship)
1. Employment-Based Green Card – Through long-term work in the US
2. Family Sponsorship – A relative who is a US citizen sponsors you
3. Marriage to a US Citizen – Legal marriage allows permanent residence
4. Asylum or Refugee Status – For those facing persecution (under strict conditions)
5. Diversity Visa Lottery – Random selection for permanent residency
After receiving a Green Card, you can apply for US citizenship after 5 years.
6️⃣ Estimated Time and Cost
Visa TypeProcessing TimeEstimated Cost (USD)
Student (F-1)2–3 months$300–$800
Work (H-1B)3–6 months$1000–$2500
Tourist (B-1/B-2)1–2 months$185
Family-Sponsored6 months – 2 years$500–$1200
Diversity Visa Lottery~1 year$330 (including interview fee)
7️⃣ Success Tips
✅ Prepare well before the interview
✅ Keep all documents consistent and truthful
✅ Maintain a clear financial record
✅ Avoid fake job or visa offers
✅ Use only official US government websites for applications
8️⃣ Avoid Scams and Fraud
🚫 Don’t trust anyone who promises “guaranteed visa approval.”
🚫 Never share your passport or bank details with strangers.
🚫 Pay fees only through official US embassy channels.
✅ Use only these official sources:
https://www.ustraveldocs.com/
https://travel.state.gov/
9️⃣ Conclusion
Going to the USA is not an impossible dream — it’s a structured process that requires patience, honesty, and preparation. Many people fail because they rush or rely on false information.
If you follow the proper steps, gather your documents carefully, and stay alert to scams, your chances of success are very high. Whether your goal is to study, work, travel, or settle permanently, planning ahead can make your American Dream come true.