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B Visa Overview

Submitted by admin on Feb 6th 2009, Modified on Jan 27th 2010
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The B visa category applies to citizens of foreign countries who wish to visit the United States for a temporary period.  There are two types of B visas: B-1 (for business) and B-2 (for pleasure or medical treatment).  A B-1 visa would be issued for an individual desiring to enter the U.S. to consult with business associates; attend a scientific, educational, professional or business convention or conference; settle an estate; or negotiate a contract.  A B-2 visa would be issued for an individual wishing to enter the U.S. for touring, amusement, visits with friends or relatives, rest, medical treatment, and activities of a social or service nature.

A. Duration of Stay

A business visitor (B-1) will be granted a period of entry sufficient to conduct his or her business.  Generally, these visits are approved for less than three months.  

A non-business visitor (B-2) will automatically be granted a six-month period of entry.  Only in unusual circumstances will a B-2 visa holder be granted a period of entry that is shorter or longer than six months.  

It should be noted that it is possible to obtain a period of admission of one year on initial entry to the U.S.  Additionally, extensions of up to six months may be granted.

B.    Application Process

In order to obtain a B visa, you need only apply with the U.S. consulate; an application to the Immigration Service is not required.

Foreign travelers who are citizens from certain eligible countries may also be able to visit the U.S. without a visa on the Visa Waiver Program.    

C.    Special Conditions

It should be noted that an alien entering the U.S. with a B visa must not engage in gainful employment (labor for hire) in the U.S.  Additionally, the undertaking of an academic study program is not permitted (with a few limited exceptions).

BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR OBTAINING B-1/B-2 STATUS

There are five basic requirements for issuance of a B visa, as specified by The State Department:

1.    The alien is entering the U.S. for a limited duration.
2.    The alien intends to depart the U.S. at the expiration of his or her stay.
3.    While in the U.S., the alien maintains a foreign residence which he or she has no intention of abandoning.
4.    The alien has adequate financial arrangements to travel to, sojourn in, and depart from the U.S.
5.    The alien will engage solely in legitimate activities relating to business or pleasure.

 


H1B Pending

Submitted by Prince (not verified) on Mar 9th 2010.

I have 5 year M entry visa to visit US from India. I got a job offer and my employer is filing H1b for me in April 2010. My 6 month B1/B2 visa is over on June 4th 2010. (A)Can I continue to stay in US on pending H1b? (B) Should I apply for extension of B1/B2? Will this application for extension confuse or spoil my chance of getting H1b? (C)If I do the premium processing will I know the status of my visa before 4th of June?

H1B Pending

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Mar 16th 2010.

You need to discuss this with your H-1 lawyers. I do not believe you can stay. Filing an extension may not help either.

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

Return to America on a B-2 visa

Submitted by dean1876 (not verified) on Mar 7th 2010.

I want to know how long I have to spend in my country before I can return back to America,I left there on october 27 and I have a b-2visa

Return to America on a B-2 visa

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Mar 16th 2010.

I cannot give you a hard and fast rule, but generally speaking, CBP wants you to spend more time outside than inside USA each year.

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

Business Visa

Submitted by Sridhar (not verified) on Feb 19th 2010.

I sent an invitation to my business associate in India for supplying and installing equipments. The visa was rejected saying it is illegal to pay in US in USD.
Actually, I am paying the company in India for supplying and installing equipments and not as a salary to the installer/project consultant.
Now, I have asked him to reapply for the visa.
What is the best way to present the case to the consulate office during interview?
Your input will be greatly appreciated.

Business Visa

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Mar 16th 2010.

If you make the details of the transaction clear to the consulate, I feel you should have a shot.

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

Can my parents stay in the US?

Submitted by Tiger (not verified) on Feb 13th 2010.

My 2nd question is:

I haven't applied I-130 for my dad. Can I file a B-2 visa extension for my dad and can he legally stay in the States after Mar-10 until the B-2 visa extension is granted or denied by Immigration? What form should I use for B-2 visa extension? Approximately how long does it take Homeland Security Immigration to grant or deny a B-2 visa extension case?

Thanks so much!!!

Can my parents stay in the US?

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Feb 19th 2010.

He can legally stay in USA as long as USCIS receives the extension request (Form I-539)before the expiration of his current status. He can stay till the request is decided or till the time for which the extension has been requested, whichever comes first. It can take several months for the application to be decided. He

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

Can my parents stay in the US?

Submitted by Tiger (not verified) on Feb 13th 2010.

I am an American citizen. My parents received their 1 year multiple B-2 visa in Aug-09 and they came to live with me in Sep-09. I applied for I-130 for my mother in Oct-09. I received my mom's I-130 approval notice in Feb-10. And my parents are still in the States with me now. They were granted 6 months stay till Mar-10. My questions are:

1. Can my mom stay in the States beyond March and file I-485 status ajustment? Or should she go back to her home country and wait to be interview at the consulate?

My 2nd question will be in the next submission.

Can my parents stay in the US?

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Feb 19th 2010.

From what you have described, I see no reason why you cannot file for their I-485 and have them stay.

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

Visit Visa to the U.S.

Submitted by juliet (not verified) on Feb 1st 2010.

My grandmother and my auntie are US citizens, I would like to know how to get a tourist visa to visit there in US califonia? can I know the requirements or how much I need to spend?

Visit Visa to the U.S.

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Feb 19th 2010.

Juliet, just contact the US consulate closest to where you live to find out the formalities and fees. Basically, you need to file a visa application and interview with the consulate. they will tell you what to bring with you.

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

B1 entry

Submitted by Ana (not verified) on Jan 29th 2010.

Hi,
I had come to US on a B2 visa for personal reasons. I stayed at US for 6 months. Now I need to go back to US on a B1 visa[for official reasons]. How long do I need to wait in India, in order to enter US again. I know that "The rule of thumb is that one must spend more time outside USA than inside". My question is What's the min time I need to be in India in order to re-enter US.
Thanks.

B1 Entry

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Feb 19th 2010.

You know the rule of thumb. That is pretty much all I can say. These entries are left to the discretion of the CBP officer you interview with at the airport.

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

Co-sign for my fiance's mom

Submitted by Tuongvan Vu (not verified) on Jan 26th 2010.

My fiance's mother wants to visit him , but his income tax for 2009 not enough to sponsor his mother. Can I put my income tax to co-sign to let his mother get the visa visit US ? If its work how much my income should be that would qualify with the situation ? ( i'm a single mom with 2 kids). Thanks for your help !

Co-sign for my fiance's mom

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Jan 31st 2010.

Anyone can sign a Form I-134 (the affidavit of support for a visitors visa). As to the amount of income, run an internet search for "poverty guidelines." If you meet those requirements, you should be fine. In fact, a Form I-134 is not a requirement of law, but consulates can ask for it.

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

Visa for parents

Submitted by cindy (not verified) on Jan 21st 2010.

My husband's parents live in mexico is there any way I can ask for a visa for them or do they have to get to get it by themselves.

Visa for parents

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Jan 24th 2010.

Cindy, you cannot apply for them. They have to do it.

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

Entering U.S.

Submitted by sari (not verified) on Jan 17th 2010.

My boyfriend is from pakistan and we would like to know what would be the best way for him to get a visa to visit the US and how. He is a student in Sweden at this time and has a Europe Visa. Will this help him in anyway to be able to come to the US? Would really appreciate any help or advice you could give to help him be able to visit me and my family. Thank you Sir.

Entering U.S.

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Jan 19th 2010.

Sari, all he can do is try. There is no way to be certain, but being abroad already should help a bit.

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

Renew/reissue Visitor visa for my in-law's

Submitted by Rohit (not verified) on Jan 17th 2010.

Hi Rajiv
My In-Law's have 5 years multiple visa, they have been to US 2 times, stayed here within allowed time, everything is in order. Their VISA is expiring this AUG 2010. When can they reapply for visa renewal/Reissue? Appriciate your any help.

Thanks

Renew/reissue Visitor visa for my in-laws

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Jan 19th 2010.

They can apply either 30 or 60 days (I forget) ahead of expiration of current visa. Send an email to the consulate. They do respond. Share the answer with us please.

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

B1B2 VISA multiple entry 10 years

Submitted by TITO LOGRONO (not verified) on Jan 11th 2010.

I obtained my b1b2 visa on July 2007 with multiple entry and valid for 10 years. I travelled to USA on November 2007 and stay their for 2 weeks. I am planning to visit again my relatives this year but I heard from the people around me that my visa is already cancelled since I wasnt able to re enter USA after 2 years, they said that the requirements for me to do to keep my visa active is to enter USA every 2 years. Please I need your professional views on this matter.

B1B2 VISA multiple entry 10 years

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Jan 19th 2010.

There is no requirement that you enter every two years. I see no issue with your travel.

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

b1 visa

Submitted by indyaisgr8 (not verified) on Jan 8th 2010.

I am supposed to apply for my business visa today for usa.
I am traveling for pure business, meeting my existing suppliers and doing further business development and also inspect a loading on existing contract. I will be providing relevant business details on my visa form.

The small query that i have is, that my real sister is based in usa, and her husband holds a green card.the visa form asks for mentioning of any blood relation/relative settled in usa, so would mentioning their details on my visa form create some kind of hindrance in my getting the business visa

b1 visa

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Jan 11th 2010.

We have no choice. You have to tell the truth. I do not believe that by itself would be a problem.

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

Re-enter US on tourist visa

Submitted by Priya (not verified) on Jan 7th 2010.

Hi,
My mother has valid 10 year tourist visa. However, on tourist visa, she can stay upto 6 months in US. I wanted to know that after 6 months, can she fly to Canada for a month to stay with her sister and then return to US after a month. What's the min time limit she has to be out of US in order to re-enter US?
I'm having a small child and would like her to stay with me as much as possible.
Please advise,
Priya

Re-enter US on tourist visa

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Jan 11th 2010.

Priya ji, it is unlikely she will receive another six months after visiting Canada. The rule of thumb is that she must spend more time outside USA than inside.

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

visa inquiry

Submitted by Maricel (not verified) on Dec 28th 2009.

Hi, i just want to ask something and im really hoping that you can give an answer to my questions. I am a Filipina and i have my fiance in the US but he is still waiting for his greencard. We are really looking forward to be together soon. Which is more easier to get a visitor's visa or a fiance visa? But he is not a US citizen yet, he is still waiting for his greencard. Please tell us what would be the best for us to do in order for us to be together soon?

B visa for fiance

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Jan 6th 2010.

Fiance visa option is available for citizens only. B visa is always a toss of a coin. No-one can predict how it will go. But chances of getting B visa for the fiance of a US immigrant are very low.

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

Vistor Visa for Niece

Submitted by alisotrail (not verified) on Dec 17th 2009.

Hi there,

My parents are planning to visit us here in States in Summer. They have 10 year multiple entry visa. They have been here before (about 2 years ago). This time they want to bring my niece (9 years old) with them as my niece will have 2 months summer break during that timeframe. My question is what documents do we need for her visa. Does my parents need to accompany her during her Visa interview.

Thanks in advance for your time and help.

Vistor Visa for Niece

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Dec 25th 2009.

Send an email to consulate asking for local requirements for grant of a visa for a child to travel with grandparents. They may need consent from her parents.

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

Are there any impediments to exit the US with a expired B1/B2

Submitted by luigi (not verified) on Dec 16th 2009.

Hi,
I came to US when I was a minor under the care of my parents with a B1/B2 visa. My parents decided to stay here for 1 year. 5 years have passed. I am 20 years old now. My B1/B2 visa expired in august of this year and I do not want to stay illegal in this country anymore. I am going back to my country. Are there any impediments for me to exit without any problems?

Thank you!

Are there any impediments to exit the US with a expired B1/B2

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Dec 25th 2009.

As far as I know, there is no impediment. But I think you will be subject to a ten year bar from reentering USA once you leave.

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

applyinh for B1/B2

Submitted by dadabigboy (not verified) on Dec 14th 2009.

I HAVE A PENDING I-130 WITH PRIORITY DATE OF 26OCT 2002 IN THE F2B CATEGORY, NOW MY COUSIN WISH FOR ME TO VISIT HER IN MARYLAND,MY PARENTS AND SIBLINGS LIVE IN THE STATES AND I HAVE BEEN DENIED B2 VISA BEFORE IN 2002 , BUT I HAVE ALSO TRAVELLED TO THE US BEFORE AS A CHILD FIRST IN 1987 AND 1992 WITH MY FATHER. QUESTION IS I HAVE 5 YEARS WORKING EXPERIENCE IN A BANK, I HAVE TRAVELLED TO THE UK,FRANCE,ITALY AND SPAIN REGULARLY ON HOLIDAYS IN THE LAST 3 YEARS. WHAT ARE MY CHANCES OF GETTING A VISITORS VISA? IF MY CHANCES ARE NOT BRIGHT, I MIGHT AS WELL FORGET ABOUT APPLYING FOR A VISITORS VISA

applying for B1/B2

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Dec 15th 2009.

Your chances are slim, but it is impossible to predict.

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

I have been revoked to seattle with visa B1/B2

Submitted by A. Martine (not verified) on Dec 12th 2009.

HI,
last november 11, 2009 I went to seattle for vaccation. I detained: 1-one returned ticket for may 3, 2010; 2-one electronic ticket for one mission on geneva from december 1st to 7, 2009; 3- 3books for my online MBA courses; 4- one visa B1 & B2 for 10 years issue on july 2007, 5- a letter for my employer.
But when I arrive to airport the immagration office say that I came to work or study, but not for vaccation. They put me in Jail ARROUND 1 MONTH and they revoked me.
I want to know the way to make my complaint and ask to review my case. I am an international worker since 1999.

I have been revoked to seattle with visa B1/B2

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Dec 15th 2009.

You will need a consultation with a lawyer. It appears you were formally denied admission and excluded from entering USA. The one-month detention sounds strange. Anyhow, get a lawyer, this is not a simple matter.

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

revoke visa (B1 B2)

Submitted by ZENAIDA H. CRISOSTOMO (not verified) on Nov 25th 2009.

This is the continuation of my comments, And the officer decision I should return back to Philippines.I arrived and left same day in Seattle,WA aeroport, even they call my niece and begging to give consideration that I will ge given one month to stay and promise that she will be personally accompanied me in the aeroport back to Philippines, Then they revoked my multiple visa. I explain to them, I dont have any problem in any country that I travelled. Is there any solution to my problem? It makes my passport bad image because they stamped it with revoke.

revoke visa (B1 B2)

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Nov 28th 2009.

Sorry, I do not see the rest of your comment anywhere.

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

overstayed NIV

Submitted by Ar-an (not verified) on Nov 18th 2009.

HI. I have a 10 year multiple entry visa. I went to the US, Apr. 23,09, for the purpose of taking an exam, when I get to the US, the consul gave me 2 months, which was okay for me. When I tried to apply for a seat for my exam, I found out that my registration to my jurisdiction got expired earlier this year, so i decided to apply for it again at the same time applying for an extension of stay. I got the result of their decision last Sept. 10, which is over my I-94, I went home on Oct 23. I have 2 questions, can i still come back to the US? and if yes, how soon? Thanks.

overstayed NIV

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Nov 28th 2009.

If you overstayed by over a month, CBP may not let you reenter USA.

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

My Mother Stutus

Submitted by rmm (not verified) on Nov 18th 2009.

I am students in U.S. with F1 Visa. Also, I am the person who take care of my mother and I have documents to proof that. However, she lives with me in U.S. with a B2 Visa. She got a six months in her first entry. Then, she spent 15 days back home, and traveled to U.S. again. In the second entry she got another six months that ends on May 2010. I am worry about her status in the future. What can I do for her? Also, I want to know is it ok if she study English as second language with a B2 Visa, or she must back to home an get F1 Visa?

My Mother's Status

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Nov 28th 2009.

You will not be able to indefinitely repeat the B visa visit. There is a possibility you may be able to extend her B-2 to continue to stay with you if you are the sole supporter of your mother. Tell our office (use the "Contact Us" form) to give you an appointment, no charge. I will guide you.

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

can i return to the US after 3 months

Submitted by ernest (not verified) on Nov 12th 2009.

i got a 5 yrs multiple visa(which is B1/B2)and i was given 6 months on my arrival(MAY,29,2009 and its due in two week(NOV,27,2009),my flight departs 1 day b4 my entry visa expires,will this affect my re entry?and and can i come back to the states after 3months in my home country? or how long am i adviced to stay in my home country?

can i return to the US after 3 months - tourist, visitors visa

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Nov 13th 2009.

The rule is you must live in your home country - not USA. If you spend more time in USA than in your home country (unless you are able to convince CBP of any extraordinary circumstances you may have), at some point your entry into USA will be denied.

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

my mother in law would like

Submitted by crystal (not verified) on Nov 6th 2009.

my mother in law would like to visit me and her grand daughter and i would like to get her a visitor visa what do i need to get that and how do i get one thanks

How to apply for visitors visa

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Nov 10th 2009.

She needs to contact the US consulate closest to where she lives. Normally, they will be able to tell her what she needs to bring and what the procedure is. This information should also be available on consular web site. Most consulates also respond to e-mail enquiries.

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

I-94

Submitted by KEVIN (not verified) on Nov 5th 2009.

I lost my I94. I want to know how I can get it back?

Lost I-94

Submitted by Rajiv S. Khanna on Nov 10th 2009.

Kevin, if the I-94 is still valid (not expired) and will not expire yet for several months, you can apply for a replacement. There is a form for it. Check the USCIS web site and call USCIS customer service.

Note: We practice US immigration law with sharp focus on employment/business immigration and complex immigration matters and related federal court litigation. I know a lot about my area of practice, but I do not know everything. Use common sense.

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