The B-1/B-2 visa is a U.S. temporary nonimmigrant visa for short-term visitors to the U.S. B-1 status is for business visitors, and B-2 status is for tourists and family visits. Often a combined B-1/B-2 visa is issued to cover both purposes. These visas are usually valid for up to ten years and allow entry for a limited stay (typically up to six months) upon entry at the discretion of the U.S. officer for permitted activities, but do not allow employment (or any compensation from a U.S. source) or long-term residence.

  • B-1 (Business): For commercial/professional activities such as consulting with business associates, attending conferences, negotiating contracts, or short-term training.
  • B-2 (Tourism): For pleasure travel: vacations, visiting family/friends, medical treatment, attending social or sporting events, or short recreational courses (non-credit).

The U.S. Embassy/Consulate issues a single B-1/B-2 visa stamp that usually covers up to a 10-year multiple-entry validity. However, each entry’s allowed stay is determined by U.S. Customs & Border Protection (USCBP) at the port of entry (often six months).

To qualify, the applicant must demonstrate:

  • ⁠The trip’s purpose is permitted under the B-1 or B-2 categories
  • Temporary intent: plan to return home after the visit (strong ties to home country)
  • Adequate funds to cover expenses
  • ⁠No intent to work in the U.S. (one cannot accept employment or unpaid volunteer work)
  • Admissibility under U.S. law (no criminal or immigration violations)
  • ⁠At the visa interview, consular officers look for intent to abide by U.S. law and return to home country.

Permitted activities (examples) include:

  • B-1: Attending business meetings, conferences, contract negotiations, training programs.
  • B-2: Tourism, visiting relatives, medical treatments, non-paid participation in events, short study programs.

You cannot work, enroll in full-time study, or live in the United States on a B-1/B-2 visa.

For assistance with a B-1/B-2 visa, contact our office for a consultation. We assist clients to prepare for the visa interview, documenting ties and purpose of visit, and complying with visa rules. We guide clients through the USCIS application process, U.S. consular interview and follow up if needed, and U.S. entry process.