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PROCEDURES14 AGOSTO 2024

Visas for Europe and the United States in Latin America

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Written by:
Belén Montesinos

Many people in Latin America are considering traveling or moving to Europe or the United States. These countries offer educational opportunities and employment prospects, although sometimes it’s simply the desire to explore new horizons. For almost everyone, obtaining visas for these destinations is an indispensable step. However, the processes and requirements for obtaining visas for Europe and the United States are different, reflecting the policies and priorities of each region. In this article, we will explore the differences between European and American visas for individuals in Latin America, focusing on key aspects such as eligibility criteria, application processes, and the overall experience of obtaining a visa.

Eligibility Criteria

The main difference between the European and American visas (for Latin Americans) is the eligibility criteria. Although both regions have their specific requirements, the fundamental differences are evident.

European Visas:

In Europe, the Schengen area plays a central role in how visa policies are applied. The Schengen Agreement allows people to travel easily between participating European countries, making it a very attractive option for Latin American travelers. Generally, to apply for a Schengen visa, travelers must provide:

Proof of the purpose of the trip: This can be an invitation letter, hotel reservation, or itinerary detailing the planned activities. Sufficient funds: Applicants must demonstrate that they have the financial means to cover their stay in Europe. Bank statements or sponsorships are usually used as evidence

Travel insurance:It is mandatory to have medical insurance that covers the entire Schengen area. A valid passport: The passport must have at least two blank pages and be valid for at least three months after the planned departure date.

Proof of ties to the country of origin: Applicants must demonstrate their intention to return. Documents such as

American Visas:

For the American visa, the eligibility criteria differ significantly. The United States offers various types of visas: tourist (B1/B2), work (H-1B, L-1), and student (F-1). The application process for each type is complex, but generally requires the following:

Visa application form (DS-160): This form is necessary for all types of visas to the United States. It must be completed online. Processing fee: Applicants must pay a non-refundable fee. It varies depending on the visa category. Interview appointment: Most applicants for a U.S. visa must attend an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.

Sufficient ties to the country of origin: Similar to European visas, applicants must demonstrate significant ties to their home country to ensure their intention to return. Affidavit of support: For some types of visas, such as those sponsored by family or an employer, the applicant must present an affidavit of support from the sponsor (form I-864) to demonstrate that they will not become a public charge in the United States.

Application Process

The visa application process for Europe and the United States also differs significantly in terms of documentation, timelines, and procedures.

European Visas:

In general, to obtain the Schengen visa, you must follow these steps:

Gather documentation: Have the necessary documents ready to meet the eligibility criteria. Fill out the application form: Complete the Schengen visa application form, which can usually be downloaded from the embassy or consulate’s website of the country where you plan to apply. Obtain a visa appointment: Schedule an appointment at the embassy or consulate to collect biometric data and submit documents

Pay the fee:This amount may vary depending on the type and duration of the visa. Attend the appointment: Attend the scheduled appointment to present biometric data and documents. Wait for the response: Wait for the response: After submitting the application, the processing time varies but is usually 15 calendar days.

American Visas:

The process of applying for American visas can be more complex and time-consuming. The steps are:

Fill out the online application form (DS-160): Complete the DS-160 form online and pay the visa application fee. Schedule an interview appointment: Most applicants for a U.S. visa must schedule and attend an in-person interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate. The wait time for available appointments may be long. Attend the interview: Attend the interview with the required documentation, including the DS-160 confirmation page, passport, fee receipt, and supporting documents. Fingerprinting: Depending on the type of visa, you may need to provide biometric information. Administrative processing: After the interview, some applicants may need to undergo additional security checks or administrative processing. These checks can significantly delay visa issuance. Visa issuance: If approved, the U.S. visa will be stamped in your passport. Processing times can vary greatly, from a few days to several months.

General Experience The overall experience of obtaining a visa for Europe or the United States can be affected by factors such as fees, processing times, and the interview process.

Visas europeas:

El proceso de solicitud de visado Schengen se percibe generalmente como más sencillo y rápido en comparación con el proceso de visa estadounidense. Las tarifas de los visados Schengen de corta duración (hasta 90 días) son relativamente accesibles, y los plazos suelen ser de dos a tres semanas. Además, no todos los solicitantes de visado Schengen están obligados a acudir a entrevista, lo que hace que el proceso sea menos intimidante para algunas personas.

American Visas:

Obtaining a U.S. visa can often be a more daunting experience due to the numerous documentation requirements, the need for an in-person interview, and the possibility of administrative processing. Visa fees for various U.S. visa categories can also be relatively high, and wait times for interview appointments can be long, especially in densely populated regions. Although the United States offers a wide range of visa options, the application process can be overwhelming, especially for those unfamiliar with the complexities of U.S. immigration procedures.

For all these reasons, it is important to ensure that the documentation submitted to immigration authorities in Europe and the United States is properly translated. A travel project to Europe or the United States requires smooth and precise communication between the traveler and the destination country, so reliable translation is essential.