B2 Timeline
Complete the DS-160 Form
Complete the DS-160 Form
Fill out the online DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application with accurate details. This is the first step in starting your B-2 visa process.
Pay the MRV Fee ($185 USD)
Pay the MRV Fee ($185 USD)
Submit your non-refundable application fee online or at designated banks in Costa Rica before scheduling your interview.
Schedule Your Interview
Schedule Your Interview
Book an appointment at the U.S. Embassy in San José, Costa Rica, as soon as possible to avoid long wait times.
Prepare Your Documents
Prepare Your Documents
Gather all required documents, including your passport, DS-160 confirmation, proof of financial means, and evidence of ties to Costa Rica.
Attend the Visa Interview
Attend the Visa Interview
Meet with a U.S. consular officer to explain your travel plans and show that you meet the B-2 visa requirements.
Administrative Processing (If Needed)
Administrative Processing (If Needed)
Some applications may require extra background checks, adding a few days to several weeks to the process.
Visa Approval & Issuance
Visa Approval & Issuance
If approved, your passport with the B-2 visa will be ready for pickup or delivery within 3–7 business days.
Prepare for Your Trip
Prepare for Your Trip
Once you receive your visa, finalize your travel plans, book your flights, and get ready to visit the United States.
H-1B Timeline
USCIS Registration
USCIS Registration
Employer registers for H-1B lottery.
Lottery Results
Lottery Results
If selected, prepare full petition.
File Form I-129
File Form I-129
Employer submits with LCA & docs.
USCIS Approval
USCIS Approval
Processing wait.
Prepare Consular Visa
Prepare Consular Visa
DS-160, pay MRV.
Embassy Interview
Embassy Interview
Prove work eligibility.
Visa Ready
Visa Ready
Start work on approved start date.
K-1 Timeline
File Form I-129F
File Form I-129F
U.S. citizen submits petition to USCIS.
USCIS Approval
USCIS Approval
Initial processing.
NVC Processing
NVC Processing
Transfers to embassy.
Pay MRV & DS-160
Pay MRV & DS-160
Schedule consular appointment.
Medical Exam & Docs
Medical Exam & Docs
Prepare relationship evidence.
Attend Interview
Attend Interview
Prove genuine relationship.
Visa Issued
Visa Issued
Enter U.S. within 6 months, marry in 90 days.
F-1 Timeline
Receive Form I-20
Receive Form I-20
University issues after admission & funds.
Pay SEVIS & DS-160
Pay SEVIS & DS-160
Complete online application.
Pay MRV Fee
Pay MRV Fee
Schedule consular interview.
Prepare Documents
Prepare Documents
Passport, finances, home ties.
Attend Interview
Attend Interview
Explain study plans & return.
Admin Processing
Admin Processing
Possible additional review.
Visa Ready for Travel
Visa Ready for Travel
Enter 30 days before classes.