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B Visas

B Visas


Visitor Visas

 

The B visa category is intended for foreign nationals who want to visit the U.S. temporarily for business or pleasure. There are two types of B visas: B-1 and B-2.


- B-1 visas are for individuals visiting the U.S. for business purposes, such as consulting with business associates, attending professional conventions or conferences, settling estates, or negotiating contracts.

- B-2 visas are for those traveling to the U.S. for tourism-related purposes. These may include vacations, visiting family or friends, receiving medical treatment, participating in social or service activities, or performing in athletic or musical events without compensation. If you are accompanying a family member receiving medical treatment, a B-2 visa is also required.

- If you're visiting the U.S. for both business and pleasure, you will be issued a B-1/B-2 visa.


Certain activities are not allowed under visitor visas, such as studying, working, paid performances, or seeking permanent residence in the U.S. Note that if you are going to the U.S. to study, work, or act in any capacity as a journalist or crewmember, you must apply for a different, appropriate visa. If you plan to take more than 18 hours of classes per week, even if they do not count toward a degree, you must obtain a student visa. Furthermore, if you are attending lectures, conferences, or classes that count toward a degree, you will need a student visa.


Required Documents:

  • A passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S.
  • A recent digital photograph.
  • Documentation of the last five trips to the U.S., if applicable.
  • Proof of funds to cover the entire trip's expenses.
  • Proof of ties to your home country, such as family, employment, or property.


B VISA APPLICATION PROCEDURE 

 

You may apply for a visitor visa at any US consulate or embassy, though it is recommended to apply at the one with jurisdiction over your place of permanent residence. Applying outside of your country of permanent residence might make it more challenging to qualify for the visa. The consular officer at the embassy or consulate will decide whether you meet the qualifications for the visa. 

There are no petitions required to file with USCIS for entering the US as a visitor, but the burden of proof is on you to convince the consular officer that your visit is temporary. The law presumes that every visitor visa applicant intends to immigrate, so you must overcome this assumption by demonstrating that:

  • The purpose of your trip is for business, pleasure, or medical treatment.
  • You plan to stay for a specific, limited period.
  • You have the financial means to cover your expenses while in the US.
  • You have strong social and economic ties abroad.
  • You have a residence outside the US, along with other binding ties, ensuring your return at the end of your visit.


In addition to the general documentation requirements, individuals seeking medical treatment in the US must also provide the following:

  • A medical diagnosis from a local physician, explaining the nature of the illness and the reason why treatment is required in the United States.
  • A letter from a physician or medical facility in the US, confirming their willingness to treat the specific condition. This letter should also outline the expected duration and cost of the treatment, including doctors' fees, hospitalization costs, and other medical-related expenses.
  • A statement of financial responsibility from the individuals or organization covering the patient's transportation, medical, and living costs. Those assuming financial responsibility must show proof of their ability to cover these expenses, typically through bank statements, income/savings documentation, or certified copies of income tax returns.


Individuals traveling for medical treatment should have a statement from a doctor or institution regarding the proposed treatment plan. 


VISA WAIVER PROGRAM

Visitors from eligible countries who plan to visit the United States for 90 days or fewer for business or pleasure may qualify to enter the US without a visa under the **Visa Waiver Program (VWP)**, provided they meet the program's requirements. For more details on the Visa Waiver Program, visit the US Department of State.   

Note that if you enter the US under the VWP, you cannot apply to extend your stay.   

Currently, 36 countries participate in the program:

Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.