Business travelers and tourists who can not use the Visa Waiver program or wish to stay in the U.S. for more than 90 days need to apply for a B1/B2 visa prior to traveling to the US. The B-1 category is for business travel, the B-2 category for tourism.
B-1 Business visa
A B-1 visa allows business visitors to enter the US for a brief period in order to conduct limited business activities, such as consulting with business associates, attending a convention or conference or negotiating a contract. The B1 visa is not a working visa, and the visitor may not run a business or receive salary or payment of any kind in the US. There is a considerable 'gray area' in between what is allowed and what isn't, and VisaVersa can assist you in determining whether or not a B-1 visa is appropriate in your particular situation.
B-2 Tourist visa
The B-2 tourist visa can be used to travel to the US and visit family or friends. It is required for visitors that can not use the visa waiver program or want to stay longer than 90 days. VisaVersa can assist you with the application process for the B-2 visa, either by preparing your entire visa application or by reviewing your application in detail during a visa consultation at our office.
Persons admitted to the United States on a B-1 or B-2 visa are usually granted a 6-month stay, although the immigration officer can decide to allow a shorter stay on a case by case basis.
Please contact us to discuss your situation in more detail.