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B-1/B-2 Visitor Visa Guide

Your Comprehensive Guide to the U.S. Visitor Visa

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The B-1/B-2 visitor visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to temporarily travel to the United States for business (B-1), tourism (B-2), or a combination of both. It's one of the most common visas for short-term stays in the U.S. and is generally valid for up to 10 years. Approved visitors are typically allowed to stay for up to 180 days per entry.

B-1/B-2 Visa Requirements

To qualify for a B-1/B-2 visa, you must demonstrate to the consular officer that you:

  • Intend to enter the United States for a temporary stay, such as for business or tourism.
  • Plan to depart the U.S. before your authorized stay expires.
  • Have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in the U.S.
  • Maintain a residence outside the U.S., and have binding ties that will ensure your return. These ties can include family, employment, property ownership, and community involvement.
  • Do not intend to work or immigrate to the U.S. permanently.

Permitted Activities

B-1 Visa (Business)

  • Business consultations with partners, clients, or associates.
  • Negotiating or signing contracts.
  • Attending professional, educational, or scientific conferences and seminars.
  • Conducting market research.
  • Settling an estate.
  • Taking professional exams or seeking licensing.

B-2 Visa (Tourism)

  • Sightseeing and visiting tourist attractions.
  • Visiting family and friends.
  • Seeking medical treatment.
  • Attending social events like weddings, concerts, or cultural performances.
  • Participating in unpaid contests or amateur athletic/musical events.
  • Taking short, recreational educational courses (less than 18 hours per week).

Activities NOT Allowed

Engaging in any of the following activities while on a B-1/B-2 visa is a violation of your visa terms and may have serious consequences:

  • Enrolling in a full-time academic program.
  • Accepting employment with a U.S. company (paid or unpaid).
  • Working as a member of the crew on a ship or aircraft.
  • Working as foreign press (journalist, reporter, etc.).
  • Performing as a paid entertainer or athlete.
  • Intending to permanently reside in the United States.

Changing Status from B-1/B-2

While the B-1/B-2 visa is intended for temporary visits, it may be possible to apply for a change of status to another visa category while in the U.S. This requires approval from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Possible changes of status include:

  • F-1 Student Visa: If you are accepted into a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified educational institution.
  • H-1B or L-1 Work Visa: If a U.S. employer sponsors you for employment.
  • Marriage-Based Green Card: If you marry a U.S. citizen.

Important Considerations:

  • You must apply for a change of status before your B-1/B-2 visa expires.
  • Not all changes of status are permissible. For example, individuals who entered the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program are generally not eligible to change status.
  • Any violation of your B-1/B-2 visa conditions (e.g., unauthorized employment) can jeopardize your chances of obtaining a change of status.

Required Documents for Application

All documents not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation that meets USCIS standards.

  • A passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S.
  • A recent digital photograph that meets U.S. Department of State requirements.
  • DS-160 confirmation page.
  • Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay. This can include bank statements, pay stubs, or a letter of support from a sponsor.
  • Evidence of strong ties to your home country, demonstrating your intention to return. Examples include:
  • Details of past U.S. travel (if applicable).
  • If applying for a B-1 visa, provide evidence of the business purpose of your trip (e.g., meeting invitations, conference registration).
  • If seeking medical treatment, provide a letter from your doctor and a letter from the U.S. medical facility.

Application Process

Applications for a B-1/B-2 visa must be submitted to the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country of residence.

  1. Complete the DS-160 Form: The Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application must be completed accurately and submitted online. Print the confirmation page.
  2. Pay the Visa Fee: Currently $185 USD. Fees are subject to change, so check the U.S. Department of State website for the most up-to-date information. Keep your payment receipt.
  3. Upload a Digital Photograph: Ensure the photo meets the strict requirements of the U.S. Department of State (size, background, etc.).
  4. Schedule and Attend an Interview: Most applicants between the ages of 14 and 79 are required to attend an interview. Digital fingerprint scans will be taken during the interview. Be prepared to answer questions about your travel plans, financial situation, and ties to your home country.
  5. Additional Documentation: The consular officer may request additional documentation to verify your eligibility. Provide these documents promptly and accurately.

Processing Time

B-1/B-2 visa processing times vary significantly depending on the U.S. embassy or consulate where you apply. Wait times can range from a few days to several months.

Check the U.S. State Department’s Visa Wait Time Tool for estimated wait times at your local embassy or consulate.

How Long Can You Stay?

  • Typically, visitors are admitted for a maximum stay of six months per entry. The exact duration is determined by the CBP officer at the port of entry. Your I-94 form will indicate your authorized stay.
  • Extensions of stay may be granted in limited circumstances, such as medical emergencies. You must apply for an extension with USCIS before your authorized stay expires. Extensions are not guaranteed.
  • The B-1/B-2 visa is usually a multiple-entry visa, allowing you to travel to the U.S. multiple times within the visa's validity period (typically 10 years).
  • There's no set limit on the number of visits per year, but frequent or lengthy stays may raise concerns with CBP officers.

Important: Do not overstay your authorized stay in the U.S. Overstaying can have serious consequences, including visa cancellation, deportation, and difficulty obtaining future visas.

If you stay longer than permitted, your visa will be automatically revoked or canceled under Section 222(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. If your visa is automatically revoked or canceled, it is no longer valid for entry or reentry into the United States.

Frequent Visits: Potential Issues

While multiple entries are allowed, frequent or prolonged stays can raise suspicion that you are attempting to live in the U.S. primarily. CBP officers may scrutinize your travel history and purpose of visit more closely.

To avoid problems, always:

  • Be prepared to clearly explain the purpose of your visit.
  • Carry evidence of your ties to your home country.
  • Ensure your visits are genuinely temporary.

B-1 vs. B-2: Key Differences

  • B-1 Visa (Business): For travel related to business activities.
  • B-2 Visa (Tourism): For travel related to tourism, family visits, or medical treatment.
  • B-1/B-2 Visa: Most applicants receive a combined B-1/B-2 visa, allowing them to travel for both business and tourism purposes. The consular officer will determine the appropriate visa type based on your primary purpose of travel.

Final Thoughts

The B-1/B-2 visitor visa offers a valuable opportunity for temporary travel to the U.S. for business or tourism. However, it's crucial to understand the rules and adhere to the terms of your visa. Providing false information or overstaying your visa can have severe repercussions for future travel to the U.S.

If you require certified translations for your visa application documents, Certling offers fast and reliable translation services that comply with USCIS requirements. Get a quote today!