B-1/B-2

B-1 Temporary Business Visitor

B-1 visas are intended for individuals wishing to enter the United States for the purpose of participating in business activities of a commercial or professional nature. Examples of these types of “business activities” include in part: consultation with business associates, professional conventions, settling an estate, and short-term business training. This list is not exhaustive and may include many other short-term endeavors. B-1’s may not receive a salary from U.S. based source (other than expense allowances or expense reimbursements).

Requirements for Obtaining a B-1 Visa

You must be able to demonstrate the following:
✓ Your trip to the United States is for a legitimate business nature.
✓ Your trip will last a specific limited time.
✓ You have the funds to cover the trip and stay.
✓ You have a residence outside the United States with no intention to abandon and other binding ties.
✓ You are not otherwise inadmissible to enter the United States.

Length of Stay for B-1 Visa

For the initial period of stay you may apply for 1 to 6 months. The stay may be extended for up to 6 months from the initial stay, but the cap is generally 1 year per trip.

B-2 Temporary Pleasure, Tourism, Medical Treatment Visitor

If the purpose of your visit is recreational in nature or is related to medical treatment as well as other related activities, then B-2 may be the appropriate visa to use. “Legitimate activities of a recreational character, including tourism, amusement, visits with friends or relatives, rest, medical treatment and activities of a fraternal, social or service nature.” 22 CFR §41.31(b)(2).

Requirements for Obtaining a B-2 Visa

You must be able to demonstrate the following:
✓ Your trip to the United States is for recreational or medical treatment.
✓ Your trip will last a specific limited time.
✓ You have the funds to cover the trip and stay.
✓ You have a residence outside the United States with no intention to abandon and other binding ties.
✓ You are not otherwise inadmissible to enter the United States.

Length of Stay for B-1/B-2 Visa

For the initial period of stay (on B-1 Visa) you may apply for 1 to 6 months. The stay may be extended for up to 6 months from the initial stay, but the cap is generally 1 year per trip. B-2 given automatic 6 month entry. Travelers coming to the United States on either a B-1 or B-2 visa category for 90 days or less from qualified countries may be eligible to travel without a visa if they meet the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) requirements.