Nonimmigrant Visas

Types of Visas

B Visas: Temporary Visitors (Business/Pleasure/Medical)

Who should apply?

This visa is for a person who wants to visit the U.S. temporarily for business or pleasure, or both. It is also for a person who wishes to have medical treatment in the U.S.

What types are available?

• B-1/B-2 is for business, pleasure and medical. Most applicants will receive this combination visa
• B-1 is for business only
• B-2 is for pleasure/medical only

What must you establish as a B Visa applicant?

• You have a residence abroad that you do not intend to abandon
• You are going to the U.S. for a definite temporary period
• You have permission to enter a foreign area after your stay in the U.S.
• You have access to sufficient money to cover expenses of the visit and return passage
• You will depart at the end of your authorized stay in the U.S.

Definition of Business

"Business" does not generally mean to gain employment, but it does include almost any legitimate commercial activity, including: consultations with business associates, negotiating a contract, buying goods or materials, settling an estate, appearing as a witness in a court trail, participating in business or professional conventions or conferences, or undertaking independent research.

Definition of Pleasure

"Pleasure" means activities such as touring, visits to friends and relatives, visits for rest or medical treatment, participation in conventions, conferences, or convocations of fraternal or social organizations, and participation by amateurs, who will receive no payment, in musical, sports and similar events or contests.

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