B1 and B2 Visas
Visas for Visitors (Business and Pleasure)

B-1 Visa

Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the U.S. must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Visitor visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons who want to enter the U.S. temporarily for business (visa category B-1), for tourism (visa category B-2), or for a combination of both purposes (B-1/B-2).

Visitors with a category B-1 business visa are permitted to consult with business associates; attend scientific, educational, professional, or business conventions or conferences; settle an estate; negotiate a contract; participate in short-term training; transit through the U.S.; and certain air crewmen may enter the U.S. as deadhead crew.

Eligibility for B1 and B2 Visas

​There are specific requirements that must be met by applicants to qualify for a visitor visa under U.S. immigration law. The consular officer at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate will determine whether you qualify for the visa. The required presumption under U.S. law is that every visitor visa applicant is an intending immigrant until they demonstrate otherwise. Therefore, applicants for visitor visas must overcome this presumption by demonstrating:- That the purpose of their trip is to enter the U.S. temporarily for the business of a legitimate nature;- That they plan to remain for a specific, limited period;- Evidence of funds to cover expenses in the U.S.;- That they have a residence outside the U.S. as well as other binding ties that you have no intention of abandoning, which will ensure their departure from the U.S. at the end of the visit; and- You are otherwise admissible to the U.S.

Applicants for visitor visas should generally apply at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country where they live. It is important to apply for a visa well in advance of the travel departure date. The first step in the visa application process is completing Form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application. The visa service fee for the B-Visitor category is $160.00.

Your spouse and children are not eligible to obtain a dependent visa. Each of your dependents who will be accompanying or following to join you must apply separately for a B-2 visa and must follow the regulations for that visa.

Visitor Visas for Personal or Domestic Employees

You may apply for a B-1 visitor visa to work in the U.S. as a personal or domestic employee for your employer in limited situations. You may work in the U.S. on a visitor visa if your employee is:- A U.S. citizen who has a permanent home or is stationed in a foreign country, but is visiting or is assigned to the U.S. temporarily; or

A foreign citizen who is in the U.S. on one of the following nonimmigrant visa categories: B, E, F, H, I, J, L, M, O, P, or Q.

B-2 Visa

Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the U.S. must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Visitor visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons who want to enter the U.S. temporarily for business (visa category B-1), for tourism (visa category B-2), or for a combination of both purposes (B-1/B-2).

​Visitors with a category B-2 tourism visa are permitted to participate in tourism; vacation, visit with friends or relatives; seek medical treatment; participate in social events hosted by fraternal, social, or service organizations; participate in amateur musical, sports, or similar events or contests, if not being paid to participate; and enroll in a short recreational course of study, not for credits toward a degree.

​There are specific requirements which must be met by applicants to qualify for a visitor visa under U.S. immigration law. The consular officer at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate will determine whether you qualify for the visa. The required presumption under U.S. law is that every visitor visa applicant is an intending immigrant until they demonstrate otherwise. Therefore, applicants for visitor visas must overcome this presumption by demonstrating:- That the purpose of their trip is to enter the U.S. temporarily for pleasure;- That they plan to remain for a specific, limited period;- Evidence of funds to cover expenses in the U.S.;- That they have a residence outside the U.S. as well as other binding ties that you have no intention of abandoning, which will ensure their departure from the U.S. at the end of the visit; and- You are otherwise admissible to the U.S.

Applicants for visitor visas should generally apply at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country where they live. It is important to apply for a visa well in advance of the travel departure date. The first step in the visa application process is completing Form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application. The visa service fee for the B-Visitor category is $160.00.

Timeline

​After the applicant has submitted Form DS-160, they must print the confirmation page and take it to the interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. The wait time for an interview appointment for applicants can vary, so early application is strongly encouraged. Visa wait times for interview appointments and visa processing times for each U.S. Embassy or Consulate vary from case to case according to its circumstances.

Understanding B1 And B2 Visas

If you’re planning on a temporary stay in the US, your B1 and B2 visas for visitors lawyer can help. These visas are essential for those who wish to engage in business activities, such as consultations or negotiations, or for tourists who want to explore the sights and sounds of America. Here at Bolour / Carl Immigration Group, APC, we guide our clients through the complexities of securing these visas and ensuring a lawful and enjoyable stay in the U.S.

What B1 And B2 Visas Allow

The B1 visa is designed for those engaging in business-related activities. These include consulting with business associates, attending scientific, educational, professional, or business conventions/conferences, settling estates, or negotiating contracts. The B2 visa, on the other hand, is suited for visitors who are touring the U.S., visiting friends or relatives, or seeking medical treatment.

Both visas are typically issued for a short duration, depending on the needs of the visitor, with an initial period of stay that can extend up to six months. It’s crucial for holders of these visas to adhere strictly to the terms of their visa to avoid violations and potential complications with immigration authorities.

Extending Your Stay Legally

Sometimes, a longer stay in the United States is necessary. In such cases, B1 and B2 visa holders can apply for an extension of their stay. This process involves filing a timely application with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and providing a valid reason for the extension. Common reasons might include a prolonged business negotiation, unexpected delays in your travel plans, or a medical condition that requires extended treatment in the U.S.

When Applying For An Extension, One Must Demonstrate That:

The extended stay is temporary.

The visitor will maintain their foreign residence.

The visitor has the financial means to support themselves during the extended stay.

The visitor is otherwise admissible to the U.S.

Maintaining Legal Status

Maintaining legal status while on a B1 or B2 visa is paramount. Overstaying or engaging in unauthorized activities, such as employment, can lead to deportation and a ban from reentering the United States. We emphasize the importance of understanding the activities permitted under your visa type. If your travel purposes change, you should contact your B1 and B2 visitor visa lawyer as soon as you can.

Travel And Reentry

B1 and B2 visa holders planning to leave and re-enter the U.S. during their authorized stay must also be mindful of the rules surrounding reentry. You should have all the necessary documentation in order to re-enter the U.S. without issues, including a passport valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the U.S., and evidence of your intent to return to your home country.

Get In Touch With Us Today

While the B1 and B2 visas offer a gateway to experiencing the United States for business or pleasure, respecting the visa conditions is crucial for a trouble-free stay and future visits.

At Bolour / Carl Immigration Group, APC, we are dedicated to ensuring that your stay in the United States meets all legal requirements while being as fulfilling as possible. Get in touch today, and see what a B1 and B2 Visa lawyer from our office can do for you.

Understanding The 6 Month Rule For US Visas

B1 and B2 visas can be complicated, but we’re here to help. Since 1993, Bolour / Carl Immigration Group, APC has been providing assistance to thousands of clients who are hoping to build a future in the United States.

The 6 Month Rule, is an important guideline that can significantly impact your stay. This rule affects a wide range of visas, and understanding it is essential for ensuring a smooth and legal visit. 

What Is The 6 Month Rule?

The 6 Month Rule generally refers to the requirement that your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of departure from the United States. This rule is in place to prevent travelers from encountering issues if their departure is delayed or their plans change while in the U.S. For many travelers, this can be a point of confusion, but it’s a straightforward requirement that can prevent a lot of headaches down the line.

Why Is The 6 Month Rule Important?

The importance of the 6 Month Rule lies in its role in maintaining lawful status while you are in the U.S. If your passport does not meet this requirement, you may be denied entry, even if your B1 or B2 visa itself is valid. This rule helps ensure that you have sufficient time on your passport to cover unexpected situations that might arise during your travels.

Exceptions To The Rule

While the 6 Month Rule is generally applicable, there are exceptions. Many countries have agreements with the United States that waive this requirement, allowing their citizens to enter the U.S. as long as their passport is valid for the duration of their stay. These agreements are often referred to as “6-Month Club” agreements. It’s important to check whether your country is part of this agreement before making travel plans.

Practical Implications For Travelers

For most travelers, the practical implications of the 6 Month Rule are straightforward: ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay. If your passport is set to expire before then, it’s wise to renew it before your trip. This simple step can prevent a myriad of problems at the border. Additionally, this requirement underscores the importance of planning ahead and being mindful of all travel documentation well before your departure date.

Potential Consequences Of Non-Compliance

Failing to comply with the 6 Month Rule can lead to serious consequences, including being denied entry to the United States. This can disrupt travel plans, cause financial loss, and create significant stress. Even if you are granted entry with a passport that does not meet the six-month validity requirement, you may face difficulties during your stay, including when seeking extensions or making subsequent visits.

Our Commitment To Your Successful Journey

At Bolour / Carl Immigration Group, APC, we understand the importance of staying informed about visa requirements and ensuring a seamless travel experience. Our team is dedicated to helping clients navigate the complexities of U.S. immigration law and ensuring that all necessary guidelines, including the 6 Month Rule, are met. Contact us today, and see how we can help with your B1 and B2 visa.