Visitor & Tourist Visas
B-1/B-2 Visitor Visas
B-1/B-2 visas are for temporary visits to the United States for business (B-1) or tourism and pleasure (B-2). These visas are typically issued for multiple entries over 1-10 years.
Visa Waiver Program (VWP)
Citizens of VWP countries can visit the U.S. for 90 days or less without a visa, but must have ESTA authorization. This program covers tourism and business visits.
Types of Visitor Visas
B-1 Business Visitor
For business activities like meetings, conferences, consultations, or contract negotiations
Allowed Activities:
- ✓Attend business meetings or conferences
- ✓Consult with business associates
- ✓Negotiate contracts
- ✓Participate in short-term training
- ✓Attend scientific, educational, professional or business conventions
Not Allowed:
- ✗Perform skilled or unskilled labor
- ✗Study (except short recreational courses)
- ✗Represent foreign press, radio, film, or media
- ✗Engage in commercial activities for compensation
B-2 Tourist/Pleasure
For tourism, vacation, visits to friends and relatives, medical treatment, or recreational activities
Allowed Activities:
- ✓Tourism and sightseeing
- ✓Visit friends and relatives
- ✓Receive medical treatment
- ✓Participate in social events
- ✓Attend short recreational courses (not for credit)
Not Allowed:
- ✗Study for academic credit
- ✗Work or provide services for compensation
- ✗Perform as an entertainer
- ✗Serve as crew member on ship or aircraft
- ✗Practice medicine or other profession
B-1/B-2 Visa Requirements
General Requirements for B-1/B-2 Visas
- Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity
- Demonstrate intent to return to your home country
- Show strong ties to your home country (employment, family, property)
- Prove sufficient funds to cover your stay in the U.S.
- Have a specific purpose for your visit (tourism, business meetings)
- No criminal history or immigration violations
- Complete DS-160 form and pay application fee
Visa Application Process
B-1/B-2 Visa Application Process
Complete DS-160 Form
Fill out the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application completely and accurately
Required Documents:
- •Valid passport information
- •Travel itinerary (if available)
- •Previous travel history
- •Employment and education details
Pay Application Fee
Pay the non-refundable visa application fee
Required Documents:
- •$185 application fee for B-1/B-2 visas
- •Payment confirmation receipt
Schedule Interview
Schedule visa interview appointment at U.S. embassy or consulate
Required Documents:
- •DS-160 confirmation page
- •Fee payment receipt
- •Valid passport
Prepare Documentation
Gather all required documents and evidence for your interview
Required Documents:
- •Invitation letters (if applicable)
- •Employment verification
- •Bank statements
- •Property ownership documents
- •Travel itinerary
Attend Interview
Complete visa interview at the embassy or consulate
Required Documents:
- •Passport and photos
- •DS-160 confirmation
- •All supporting documents
- •Interview appointment letter
Visa Waiver Program
Visa Waiver Program Requirements
- Citizen of a Visa Waiver Program participating country
- Valid electronic passport (e-passport) or regular passport issued before specific dates
- Travel authorization through ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization)
- Stay must be 90 days or less
- Purpose must be tourism or business
- No previous visa denials or immigration violations
- Return or onward ticket
VWP Participating Countries
Citizens of the following countries can travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program:
ESTA Required:
All VWP travelers must obtain ESTA authorization before traveling. Apply at least 72 hours before departure.
Important Visitor Visa Information
Duration of Stay
- • B-1/B-2: Up to 6 months per entry (determined by CBP officer)
- • VWP: Maximum 90 days, no extensions allowed
- • Extensions: B-1/B-2 can apply for extensions, VWP cannot
- • Multiple Entry: B visas often allow multiple entries over several years
Common Reasons for Denial
- • Insufficient ties to home country
- • Inability to demonstrate financial support
- • Previous immigration violations
- • Incomplete or inconsistent application
- • Immigration intent (wanting to stay permanently)
Interview Tips
- • Be honest and consistent in your answers
- • Bring original documents, not just copies
- • Dress professionally and arrive early
- • Clearly explain your purpose and return plans
- • Show strong ties to your home country
- • Demonstrate sufficient financial resources
After Approval
- • Visa validity ≠ authorized stay duration
- • Keep I-94 record for proof of legal entry
- • Don't overstay your authorized period
- • Maintain evidence of your visitor activities
- • Plan departure before status expires
- • Consider extension if needed (B-1/B-2 only)