B-1 / B-2 visa (Temporary Visitor for Business & Pleasure) is a visa category specifically for vacations and business trips. We explain how these popular visitor visas exactly work and who can apply for one. If you need any help with your B-1 / B-1 visa application, do not hesitate to contact us.
Like the name says, visitor visa holders are allowed to visit the United States for business purposes or vacation.
B-1 / B-2 visa are by far the most requested U.S. visa category. About 65% of all U.S. visa applications were B visa applications.
Hint: Travelers from specific countries, who want to travel to the U.S. for business or pleasure, should check whether they qualify for the visa-free entry under the Visa Waiver Program, also known as ESTA.
Visa Type / Class: B-1 / B-2
There are two different types of B visa:
| Visa type | Purpose of stay |
| B-1 Visa (Temporary Visitor for Business) for business trips | B-1 visa allow for a stay up to 180 days (per entry) for limited business purposes |
| B-2 Visa (Temporary Visitor for Pleasure) for tourists | B-2 visa allow for a stay up to 180 days (per entry) for touristic activities |
The following group of persons can apply for a U.S. visitor visa:
Be aware: Both visa types mentioned here are nonimmigrant visas. They only allow temporary stays in the USA. If you want to permanently live and work in the USA, you have to apply for an immigrant visa (Green Card).
The B catagory is divided in business travels (B-1) and touristic stays (B-2).
However: When visitor visas are issued, there is typically no differentiation between B-1 and B-2 visa. U.S. Consulates usually issue a combined B-1 / B-1 visa, because business trips are often mixed with vacations. Such a combined B visa allows visits for pleasure as well as business.
We would gladly assist you with the B-1 / B-2 visa application process.
Get in touch with our visa consultants now!