A B-1/b-2 visa is a temporary option for foreign individuals who want to travel to the United States. This non-immigrant visa applies to applicants that want to come to the country either for business or tourism purposes.
While the B-1 visa encompasses all foreign individuals who want a temporary US visa for business trips, the b-2 visa encompasses tourists, including people visiting family members.
In this article, you will have a full guide about the B-1/B-2 US visa type.
What is the B1 B2 US Visa Type? – The Basics
In essence, the B-1/B-2 visa is a visitor’s visa, covering several reasons for travel to the United States for a short-period stay. Among the most common purposes, B-1/B-2 visa holders may enter the country to:
- Conduct business meetings and negotiate contracts
- Attend professional conferences (e.g., a world summit relevant to a specific profession)
- Enjoy a vacation or engage in tourism
- Visit family members
- Receive medical treatment
- Attend events (e.g., concerts, classes, etc.)
Considering the B-1/B-2 visa is not an immigrant visa, such category does not permit holders to study, work in a long-term job at a US firm, perform any activity before a paying audience, or work as foreign press, either in radio, film, or other media channels.
It is crucial to note that no B-1/B-2 visa holder has permanent residence in the United States, considering the maximum period of stay granted by this visa category is 180 days. Yet, visa holders under this category can apply for a green card.
How to Obtain a the B1 B2 US Visa – Required Documentation and Evidence
The primary eligibility criteria for a B-1/B-2 visa is proving the travel is temporary. Plus, the applicant must prove he/she can self-fund all the expenses associated with the trip (i.e., transportation, lodging, food, entertainment, etc.).
Lastly, the applicant must prove there is no intention to remain in the United States upon the authorized period of stay. The application requires several documents, including:
- The applicant’s passport (the validity must pass the date of the return for at least six months)
- A recent digital picture of the applicant
- Documentation detailing the applicant’s past five previous trips to the US (if necessary)
- Proof of funds to cover all the costs of the trip
- Evidence that the applicant has binding ties to their home country, such as a job and a family
When applying for a B-1/B-2 visa, the category’s filing fee is $160. The process also includes the cost of reuniting the required documentation and evidence, as well as the passport photos.
B-1/B-2 visa applicants may submit their paperwork at a United States Embassy or Consulate in their home countries. The process to obtain the officers’ approval for the visa includes an interview conducted at the embassy or consulate where the application was submitted.
It is possible to extend the period of stay under B-1/B-2 status up to one year. Ideally, it should be done at least 45 days before the authorized period expires. To renew a B-1/B-2 visa, an applicant must go through the original process once again. However, the renewal process may not require an interview.
Work with an Expert Immigration Attorney to Enter the US Legally
Applying for a US visitor’s visa may be complex depending on your circumstances, so make sure to have a legal advisor by your side. Call Attorney Romy B. Jurado today at (305) 921-0976 or send an email to [email protected] to schedule a consultation.
