What are the B-1 and B-2 Visas? The B-1 and B-2 visa are non-immigrant…
What are the B-1 and B-2 Visas?
The B-1 and B-2 visa are non-immigrant visas that allow its holders to visit the United States for business or pleasure.
Except for student travel, which is covered by F-1 visas, B visas cover almost every reason for temporary travel.
The B-1 visa is specifically for business travel, whereas the B-2 visa is for tourism, such as vacations or family visits.
What is the procedure for securing a Visitor Visa?
One of the first things you should do is fill out the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160).
After that, print the confirmation sheet and bring it with you when you arrange and attend your Visa interview at the US Embassy. Remember to attach a digital photo of your passport scan and pay the fees before scheduling.
These two documents are required for the interview!
Can I extend my stay in the U.S. as a B Visa Holder?
If you need to prolong your stay, you can apply for a B-1/B-2 visa extension, but your stay in the United States is limited to one year. So, if you’re given a six-month period, you can only extend it for another six months. However, you must provide a compelling reason for the extension. You must be able to demonstrate a ‘need’ to stay longer.
Differences between a B-1 and B-2 Visa?
The J1 Visa or the Exchange Visitor Program is a temporary nonimmigrant visa that allows international applicants to participate in work and study based programs to travel and gain experience in the United States.
As for the J2 Visa holder, they go to the US to accompany the J1 Visa holder, meaning you can only get a J2 Visa issued if you are the child or spouse of the J1 Visa applicant.
How many B Visitor Visas have been issued lately?
In the past years many Temporary Visitor for Business (B-1) Visas and Temporary Visitor for Pleasure (B-2) Visas have been issued!
The number of applicants for these visas was gradually going up until the current situation which made the applications plummet down to half!
What documents are required for the B-2 Visa for Students?
Aside from the basic documents that every Visa applicant must submit, such as a :
– Valid passport,
– DS-160 form confirmation page,
– 2×2 inch photo,
– Application fee payment receipt,
– Appointment letter or a copy of it,
– Proof of current income if any,
– Travel itinerary,
– Criminal records in case you have been arrested.
If you are a student, you must also bring your most
– Recent school results,
– Diplomas/degrees, and
– Transcripts,
– Financial proof such as bank statements (monthly),
– FD (fixed deposits) slips, and so on.
Even though the Visa application process is quite simple, obtaining the actual visa successfully might be a bit challenging.
The United States State Department, through its consulates around the world has been rejecting a few Visitor Visa applications mainly due to incorrect information. Make sure to check everything before submitting and be confident!
How long is the B-1 Visa Valid for?
The B1 visa is issued with a six-month validity period.
The U.S. Embassy will assume that you will be able to accomplish all of your business in the country in six months.
This time frame also allows you to visit and tour any locations in the United States that you desire.
