B-1/B-2 visa

Whether employees are traveling on a business visa or a tourist visa, BAL helps employers secure the right option for temporary visits to the United States.

 

What are B-1 and B-2 visas?

B-1 business visa

A B-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows an individual to enter the U.S. temporarily for business activities, including:

  • Consulting with business associates, attending meetings or negotiating contracts
  • Attending professional conventions or conferences

B-2 tourist visa

A B-2 visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows an individual to enter the U.S. temporarily for tourism activities, including:

  • Vacations, holidays and visits with friends or relatives
  • Participation in social events and unpaid amateur events such as musical performances, sporting events or contests
 

B-1 and B-2 visa requirements

To apply for a B-1 or B-2 visa, applicants typically need to:

  • Complete Form DS-160
  • Pay the applicable visa fee
  • Attend a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate, if required
  • Provide additional documentation, if required, showing the purpose of the trip, the applicant’s intent to depart the U.S. and the applicant’s ability to pay for the trip

 

Expert guidance for your visit to the U.S.

Immigration is our focus, always

For more than 45 years, our sole focus has been helping businesses find and move talent around the world through expert-led immigration services, including support with nonimmigrant visas.




Incomparable legal and business travel expertise

Our attorneys and support teams deliver an unrivaled immigration experience to companies of all sizes and employees traveling to the United States. From U.S. consular services to insights on evolving policy, BAL experts guide you through every step of your journey.




Innovative technology built for immigration

Our AI-driven, human-backed technology is purpose-built to streamline the U.S. visitor visa process. If your employee requires a new visa category in the future, it’s easy to start a new case by leveraging our powerful case management system.




 

U.S. visitor visa services for your business

With 45-plus years of immigration experience, more than 2.5 million cases filed and a dedicated team of consular services experts, BAL helps businesses and employees travel to the U.S. on a B-1 or B-2 visa without delay. If questions arise during the visitor visa application process, our response times are unmatched in the industry, so you receive fast and accurate answers whenever you need them.

Secure a U.S. visitor visa for your employees with BAL’s immigration attorneys

B-1 and B-2 visa frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a B-1 visa and a B-2 visa?

A B-1 visa is for temporary business activities such as attending meetings, negotiating contracts and participating in conferences. A B-2 visa is intended for tourism, visiting family or friends, medical treatment and certain recreational activities. Some travelers receive a combined B-1/B-2 visa that permits either type of activity, depending on the purpose of each trip.

Can I work in the United States on a B-1 or B-2 visa?

No. Visitor visa holders are not authorized to work in the United States. Individuals who will perform productive work or receive compensation from a U.S. employer generally require an employment-based visa.

What business activities are permitted on a B-1 visa?

The U.S. Department of State lists permitted activities such as consulting with business associates, attending conferences, participating in meetings, negotiating contracts, conducting independent research and participating in certain short-term training activities.

How long can I stay in the United States on a B-1 or B-2 visa?

The B-1/B-2 visa holder’s length of stay is determined by U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the port of entry and may differ from the visa’s validity period. The admission period is typically a maximum of six months.

Can my family accompany me on a B-1 visa trip?

Family members may apply for their own visitor visas, typically B-2 visas, if they are traveling for tourism or to accompany the principal business traveler. Their eligibility is evaluated separately.

Can a B-1 or B-2 visa be extended?

A B-1 or B-2 visitor may request an extension of stay while in the United States, typically in six-month increments. Approval is discretionary and depends on the facts of the case and continued eligibility.

Can I study in the United States on a B-1 or B-2 visa?

B-1 and B-2 visitor visas generally are not intended for full-time academic study. Certain short recreational courses that are not for academic credit may be permissible under B-2 status. Consider an F-1 visa for full-time academic study.

Do I need a B-1 or B-2 visa if I qualify for the Visa Waiver Program?

Eligible nationals of participating countries may be able to travel to the United States for qualifying business or tourism purposes through the Visa Waiver Program with an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) application.