The B-Visa is generally known as the visitor visa. This visa category is divided into two subcategories, the B-1 and the B-2 Visa.
The B-1 visa is for foreign business people for their foreign employers that are traveling to the U.S. for a business purpose, such as the participation at a conference, to negotiate contracts, etc. The B-2 visa on the other hand is for a temporary visit for pleasure.
Purpose: Temporary business visa for:
Foreign business people for their foreign employers
Participation in conferences
Contract negotiations
Requirements:
Paid by foreign employer
Maintain residence aboard
Can’t be employed in the U.S.
Can’t earn money directly from the U.S. sources
Application / Petition:
At the appropriate American Consulate aboard
Form- DS-156
Form DS-157
Valid passport or travel documents
Passport photograph
Visa fees
Employer letter with reason
Consequence of visa application / petition:
Admitted to the U.S. for the length to complete purpose of trip, generally 3 month, but not exceeding 6 months
In general multiple entrance allowed
Purpose: Temporary visa for pleasure, such as:
Visiting friends
Vacation
Accompany B-1 visa holder
Requirement:
Show Non-immigrant Intent through:
Residence in your home country
Employment there
Family in your home country
Provide a round trip ticket
Show sufficient funds to finance the trip
Application:
at the appropriate American Consulate aboard
Form- DS 156
Form DS-157
Valid passport or travel documents
Passport photograph
Visa fees
Consequence of visa application / petition:
Visa can be issued for multiple trips, generally 6 month
Generally, the visa is issued for multiple entries
Can apply for one 6 month extension filed with USCIS Service Center along with the following:
Form I-539
Explanation, why necessary
Copy of return transportation ticket
Maintain oneself financially
I-94
Filing fees
Recommendation for short term visits:
Pursuant to the Visa Waiver Program, one can travel to the U.S. if the intended stay is not longer than 90 days. This program is used by a lot of visitors, as one saves the costs of the visa application fee.
Should you plan to remain in the U.S. for more than 90 days, the VWPP is not applicable. A visa must be obtained in order to enter the U.S. and should be obtained at the appropriate U.S. Consulate.
