What is B1 and B2 Visa?

What is a B1 and B2 Visa?

B1/B2 visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows foreign individuals to visit the U.S. for business (B1), tourism (B2), or for a combination of both (B1/B2). It’s valid for 5 or 10 years, allows multiple entries, and the maximum stay per visit is 6 months.

B1 Visa (Business)

B1 visa, also known as a U.S. business visa, is for individuals traveling to the U.S. for business related purposes, including:

• Consulting with business associates

• Attending a scientific, educational, professional, or business convention or conference

• Settling an estate

• Negotiating contracts

B2 Visa (Tourism)

B2 visa, also known as a U.S. tourist visa, is for individuals traveling to the U.S. for travel or personal related purposes, such as:

• Tourism

• Visiting friends or relatives

• Medical treatment

• Participation in social events hosted by fraternal, social, or service organizations

• Participation by amateurs in musical, sports, or similar events or contests, if not being paid for participating

• Enrollment in a short recreational course of study, not for credit toward a degree (for example, a two-day cooking class while on vacation)

B1 and B2 Visa (Business and Tourism)

If you need to travel for both business and tourism, you can apply for a B1/B2 visa, which allows you to do both under a single visa.

Activities NOT Allowed on a B1 and B2 Visa

A B1/B2 visa does not permit:

• Studying

• Employment

• Paid performances, or any professional performance before a paying audience

• Arrival as a crew member on a ship or aircraft

• Working as foreign press, in radio, film, print journalism, or other information media

• Permanent residence in the U.S.