How many versions of visas have been issued by the Department of State (DOS)?

The Department of State (DOS) has issued three main versions of visas, which are categorized based on the purpose of travel to the United States. These categories include nonimmigrant visas, immigrant visas, and special visas.

Nonimmigrant visas are for individuals who wish to come to the U.S. temporarily for purposes such as tourism, business, or study. Immigrant visas are intended for those seeking to live permanently in the U.S. Special visas cater to particular circumstances, such as those for certain categories of Aliens in the U.S. Armed Forces or related situations.

This classification reflects the different purposes for which individuals might seek entry into the U.S., establishing a clear framework for how visas are structured and issued, thereby allowing the DOS to efficiently manage and regulate foreign nationals entering the country. Other options suggesting either one, five, or ten versions do not accurately represent the established structure of U.S. visa categorization.