B-1/B-2 Visitor Visas – Overview
B-1 and B-2 visas are non-immigrant visas intended for temporary visitors to the United States. These categories cover short-term stays for business, tourism, or medical treatment and do not allow for permanent residence or employment within the country.
- Non-immigrant Category: For travellers with a permanent residence outside the U.S.
- Stay Duration: Typically granted for periods of up to 6 months per entry.
- Permitted Activities: Consultations with business associates, attending conventions, tourism, and visiting family.
- Work Restriction: Strictly prohibits engaging in local employment or productive work.
Eligibility – Who B-1/B-2 Visas Are For
- Purpose of visit aligns with B-1 (Business) or B-2 (Tourism/Medical) activities.
- Evidence of strong social, economic, or professional ties to your home country.
- Demonstrated financial ability to cover all expenses for the duration of the trip.
- Intent to depart the United States at the end of the authorized temporary stay.
- Possession of a valid passport for travel to the United States.
- Clear medical and criminal background as required by U.S. immigration law.
Application Steps – B-1/B-2 Visitor Visas
01
Determine Purpose: Confirm that your specific reasons for travel align with either B-1 (Business) or B-2 (Tourism/Medical) non-immigrant categories.
02
Complete Online Form DS-160: Fill out the electronic Non-immigrant Visa Application form accurately and print the confirmation page.
03
Pay MRV Application Fee: Provide the required Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee through the approved government portal for your region.
04
Create User Profile: Set up an account on the official visa scheduling website for your home country or current residence.
05
Schedule Interview Appointments: Book your biometric collection (if required) and your formal consular interview at the embassy or consulate.
06
Attend Your Interview: Bring all mandatory documentation and be prepared to answer questions about your trip and ties to your home country.
07
Wait for Visa Processing: Monitor your profile for updates on the decision and subsequent passport delivery or collection details.
Related Resources & Official Links
Important Notice: While we strive for accuracy, visa policies change frequently. Applicants are strongly advised to verify all information on official U.S. government websites prior to any submission.