USA Immigration Legal Services
B-1/B-2 Temporary Visitors for Business and/or Tourism
Visitor visas are nonimmigrant visas for individuals who wish to enter the United States on a temporary basis. These visas are issued for:
- Business purposes (B-1)
- Tourism and leisure (B-2)
- A combination of both (B-1/B-2)
Permitted Activities
B-1 (Business Visitor):
- Consulting with business associates
- Attending conferences, conventions, or meetings
- Negotiating contracts
In limited circumstances, B-1 visitors may also perform installation, service, repair, or commissioning of equipment in the United States. This is permitted only where:
- The equipment or machinery was purchased from a company outside the United States
- The sales contract explicitly requires the foreign seller to provide installation, service, or training
- The individual has specialized knowledge necessary to perform the work
- The individual remains employed and paid by the foreign company (no U.S. source remuneration)
B-2 (Tourism & Personal Visits):
- Tourism and vacation
- Visiting friends or family
- Receiving medical treatment
Generally, B visa holders may remain in the United States for up to six months per visit, depending on the determination made at the port of entry. In contrast, travelers entering under the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) are typically limited to 90 days per visit. B visas are often issued with a validity of up to 10 years, allowing for multiple entries.