What Is a B-1 / B-2 Visa?
The B-1/B-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa for individuals who want to travel to the United
States temporarily for business (B-1), tourism (B-2), or a combination of both. This is one of
the most commonly issued U.S. visas, allowing stays of up to 180 days per visit. While the visa
itself is typically valid for up to 10 years, the actual time you’re allowed to stay in the U.S.
depends on the immigration officer’s discretion at the time of entry.
This visa is ideal for people visiting the U.S. for short-term professional reasons (like meetings or conferences), sightseeing, medical treatment, or visiting family and friends. However, the B-1/B-2 visa is strictly for temporary visits—it cannot be used for employment, permanent residence, or full-time study.
This visa is ideal for people visiting the U.S. for short-term professional reasons (like meetings or conferences), sightseeing, medical treatment, or visiting family and friends. However, the B-1/B-2 visa is strictly for temporary visits—it cannot be used for employment, permanent residence, or full-time study.
Visa Processing Time & Duration of Stay
Processing times for a B-1/B-2 visa can vary significantly based on your location. It can take as
little as 7 days, or up to 2 years, depending on the U.S. embassy or consulate. Applicants can
check estimated appointment wait times on the U.S. State Department’s official tool.
Upon approval, visitors can stay in the U.S. for up to 6 months per entry. In some special cases, you can apply for an extension while in the U.S., but the purpose of the visit must remain temporary.
Upon approval, visitors can stay in the U.S. for up to 6 months per entry. In some special cases, you can apply for an extension while in the U.S., but the purpose of the visit must remain temporary.
B-1 vs. B-2 Visa: What’s the Difference?
- B-1 Visa (Business)
The B-1 visa is intended for individuals traveling to the U.S. for short-term business-related
activities.
Examples include:
- Business meetings or consultations
- Attending conferences or trade shows
- Contract negotiations
- Settling estates
- Taking professional exams or licensing tests
You cannot work, receive payment from a U.S. source, or perform professional services on a
B-1 visa.
B-2 Visa (Tourism / Medical / Social)
The B-2 visa is for non-business-related travel, such as:
- Tourism and sightseeing
- Visiting family and friends
- Attending social events or amateur contests
- Undergoing medical treatment
- Participating in recreational short courses (under 18 hours/week)
The B-2 visa does not allow paid performances, study programs, or employment of any kind.
Requirements for a B-1/B-2 Visa
To qualify, applicants must demonstrate:
- Strong ties to their home country (such as job, family, or property)
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover their U.S. stay
- Intent to return home after the temporary visit
- No intention to immigrate permanently
Failure to convince the visa officer of these factors may result in rejection.
Special Note for Canadian Nationals
Canadian citizens do not usually require a B-2 visa for tourism or short business visits.
However, if planning to study, work, invest, or immigrate, a proper visa will be required.
Length of stay for Canadians may vary between 6 months and 1 year, depending on purpose
and supporting documentation.
B-1/B-2 Visa Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a B-1 or B-2 visa, applicants must meet specific requirements
that prove the temporary nature of their visit and their ties to their home country.
Meeting these conditions improves the chances of visa approval.
General Eligibility Requirements:
Purpose of Visit Must Be Temporary
- Purpose of Visit Must Be Temporary
You must demonstrate that your travel to the United States is for a short-term
purpose such as:
- Business (B-1): meetings, conferences, negotiations, etc.
- Tourism (B-2): sightseeing, visiting relatives, medical treatment, or participating in non-paid events.
Intent to Return Home
You must prove to the visa officer that you do not plan to stay permanently in
the U.S. Evidence of strong ties to your home country is essential, including:
- Employment or business ownership
- Property or lease
- Family relationships
- Ongoing education or community involvement
Financial Capability
You must have sufficient funds to cover the entire trip, including travel,
accommodation, food, insurance, and medical expenses (if applicable). You may
also be asked to show proof of how the trip is being funded.
No Intention to Work or Study
You must not intend to:
- Work for a U.S.-based employer
- Enroll in a long-term academic program
- Stay beyond the permitted timeframe
- Ongoing education or community involvementAttempting to do so could result in visa denial or a ban on future U.S. travel.
Clean Immigration and Criminal History
A history of previous visa violations, overstays, or criminal offenses can impact
your application. If you’ve previously been denied entry, you may be required to
explain and provide supporting documentation.
Additional Notes:
- If you're being sponsored by a friend or family member, you may need to show an invitation letter along with their financial documents.
- You may also be asked to submit travel itineraries, hotel bookings, or event confirmations depending on the reason for your visit.
Activities NOT Allowed on B-1/B-2 Visa:
- Enrolling in long-term study programs
- Paid employment with a U.S. company
- Professional or commercial performances
- Working as part of a ship or airline crew
- Journalism, media, or press activities
- Applying for permanent residence
Need Help with Your B-1/B-2 Visa Application?
Our immigration consultants at Exitbase will guide you through every step of the B-1/B-2 visa
process — from document preparation to interview coaching. Let us help you navigate the
application smoothly and increase your chances of success.
Book your free consultation now or chat with our visa experts today
