How to go about intiating an start-up.Beyond the Tourist Visa: Understanding the Different Types of VisasHow to go about intiating an start-up.

When people think of “visas,” they often picture a tourist stamp. However, the world of immigration is much broader, with specific visas designed for nearly every purpose. Understanding these categories is the first step in identifying the right path for your international goals.

A Guide to Common Visa Categories

• Tourist Visa

  • Purpose: For leisure travel, sightseeing, and visiting family/friends.

  • Key Feature: Does not permit work or long-term study.

• Business Visa

  • Purpose: For attending meetings, conferences, negotiations, or market research.

  • Key Feature: Allows commercial activities but not employment with a local company.

• Work Visa / Permit

  • Purpose: For taking up employment with a specific company in a foreign country.

  • Key Feature: Typically requires a job offer and sponsorship from the employer.

• Student Visa

  • Purpose: For pursuing academic studies at a recognized educational institution.

  • Key Feature: Often allows limited part-time work and requires proof of acceptance and funds.

• Family Visa

  • Purpose: For joining a family member who is a citizen or permanent resident (e.g., spouse, parent, child).

  • Key Feature: Requires proof of relationship and the sponsor’s financial stability.

• Permanent Residency (PR)

  • Purpose: For individuals to live and work in a country indefinitely.

  • Key Feature: A pathway to citizenship, with rights similar to citizens (except voting, in some cases).

Why Getting the Right Visa Matters
Applying for the wrong type of visa is a common reason for instant refusal. Using a tourist visa to look for a job or study can lead to deportation and future bans. Always ensure your visa matches your primary intention for travel.

Conclusion
Navigating visa types can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our immigration consultants can assess your situation and pinpoint the exact visa category you need to achieve your dreams.