ICAO —
1.
Initial Approach — That segment of an instrument approach procedure between the initial approach fix and the intermediate approach fix or, where applicable, the final approach fix or point.
2.
Intermediate Approach — That segment of an instrument approach procedure between either the intermediate approach fix and the final approach fix or point, or between the end of a reversal, race track or dead reckoning track procedure and the final approach fix or point, as appropriate.
3.
Final Approach — That segment of an instrument approach procedure in which alignment and descent for landing are accomplished.
4.
Missed Approach Procedure — The procedure to be followed if the approach cannot be continued.
USA —
1.
Initial Approach — The segment between the initial approach fix and the intermediate fix or the point where the aircraft is established on the intermediate course or final course.
2.
Intermediate Approach — The segment between the intermediate fix or point and the final approach fix.
3.
Final Approach — The segment between the final approach fix or point and the runway, airport or missed approach point.
4.
Missed Approach — The segment between the missed approach point, or point of arrival at decision height, and the missed approach fix at the prescribed altitude.
VISUAL APPROACH (ICAO)
An approach by an IFR flight when either part or all of an instrument approach procedure is not completed and the approach is executed in visual reference to terrain.
VISUAL APPROACH (USA)
An approach conducted on an instrument flight rules (IFR) flight plan which authorizes the pilot to proceed visually and clear of clouds to the airport. The pilot must, at all times, have either the airport or the preceding aircraft in sight. This approach must be authorized and under the control of the appropriate air traffic control facility. Reported weather at the airport must be ceiling at or above 1000 feet and visibility of 3 miles or greater.
Methinks that explains different views on the topic on both sides of the pond.
Cheerio
