How to convert enum string to enum in java ?

Solution for java 5 ,java 6  (Enum doesn't exist in java 4 and below)

If you want  convert enum string to enum in java you need use valueOf method like:

NameOfEnumType.valueOf(StringToConvert.toUpperCase());

where:

•  NameOfEnumType - An enum type (like class name )
•  StringToConvert - string that will be converted to Enum
•  toUpperCase() - is optional but by convention fields names are upper case,so this method will automatically convert to uppercase

for example:

Enum:

public enum Visa {
ALL,
WORK,
SLAVERY
STUDY,
NONE 
}

so now, in place, where you need convert where you will  use method like
String visatype = "terrorist";
try{
result = BorderAgency.isLegal();
}catch(IllegalArgumentException iae){
sendCitizenToJail(Visa.valueOf(visatype.toUpperCase()));
}

Source: http://download.oracle.com/javase/tutorial/java/javaOO/enum.html