B-1 Visa

B Visa Information

Description

Individuals conducting general short-term business activities including:

1. Engaging in commercial transactions which do not result in employment in the United States;
2. Negotiating contracts or sales agreement;
3. Job interviews;
4. Equipment set-up or installation
5. Consulting with business associates;
6. Participating in scientific, educational, professional or business conventions, conferences, training or seminars; or
7. Undertaking independent research,
8. Individuals traveling to the US for tourist purposes to include:
   a. Vacation / tourism
   b. Visiting friends or relatives
   c. Conferences or conventions
   d. Medical treatment
   e. Visiting family members who are crewmen or belong to the Armed Forces
   f. Entering as a dependant of an alien in a different visa category that does not provide for an associated dependant visa

Basic Requirements Summary

The consular officer may require verification for obtaining the visa.

A B visa applicant must meet 3 requirements:

• The visitor must have a foreign residence that he/she intends to maintain;
• The visit must be temporary; and
• The objective for the visit is for business or tourist purposes.

The B visa excludes those people coming to study, work or represent the foreign press or information media.

A B classification also includes the following under certain limited circumstances:

• Religious ministers and missionaries;
• Board members of U.S. corporations;
• Servants of non-immigrants or certain U.S. citizens here temporarily;
• Professional athletes;
• Entertainers;
• Employees of foreign airlines; and
• Persons who would ordinarily qualify for H-1 or H-3 qualifications.

A dependent (spouse or child) of a B-1 visa holder is considered a B-2 non-immigrant when accompanying a person on a B-1 visa.

Validity Term

A B-1 visa is valid for periods ranging form 1 to 10 years. However any single entry into the US is normally limited to 3 months for business visitors and 6 months for tourist visitors. In certain situations entry into the US can be as long as 12-months.