Visitor and Business Visas
Visiting the U.S. for business and pleasure
Visitor (B-2) and business visas (B-1) are the most common non-immigrant visas issued. Although you can see some sights while in the U.S. on a business visa, you cannot conduct business if you entered the country as a tourist. Visas are not interchangeable. Be sure you chose the right visa for your trip's purpose, and bring your passport along with all adequate supporting documentation.
How long are B-1 and B-2 visas valid?
These visas are valid for anywhere between 3 months to 10 years, and can be extended under special circumstances. Although your visa may be approved for a certain length of time, a border official can restrict the limit of your stay.
Be sure to check the I-94 form the official gives you when you enter the country. It will be marked with the date you must leave the country. Overstaying this date can prevent you from returning to the U.S. in the future.
What are the restrictions on a business visa (B-1)?
Although the visa may be valid for up to 10 years, you will normally be allowed to stay only six months at a time. A B-1 visa doesn't allow you to bring your spouse or children with you, but they will most likely be able to travel with you under their own B-2 visas. If you enter the U.S. under a B-1 business visa, you can:
- Attend science / research conventions, trade shows, conferences and seminars
- Negotiate contracts
- Consult with business associates
- Conduct independent research
- Appear as a witness in a legal trial
However, you cannot get paid a salary or wages by a U.S. company for work done while you're on U.S. soil. If you conduct your research and complete your work when you return to your home country, you can be paid in U.S. dollars.
How do I get a B-1 or B-2 visa?
Apply at the nearest U.S. consulate or embassy.
What are the restrictions on a B-2 (Visitors for Pleasure) visa?
The B-2 visa is valid anywhere from 90 days to a year. If you enter the U.S. under this visa you can:
- Visit friends and relatives
- Take a tour or a vacation
- Get specially arranged medical treatment
- Participate in conventions / conferences for social organizations or your college fraternity
- Participate in amateur sports, musical performances and other events or contests
