1. What is the primary difference between a B-1 and B-2 visa?

The primary difference between a B-1 and B-2 visa is that a B-1 visa is for business purposes, while a B-2 visa is for tourism and pleasure. B-1 visas are typically issued for activities such as consulting with business associates, attending a scientific, educational, professional or business convention or conference, or negotiating a contract. B-2 visas are typically issued for activities such as tourism, vacation (holiday), visiting family or friends, medical treatment, or participating in social events hosted by fraternal, social, or service organizations.

2. How long can a visitor stay in the U.S. with a B-1 visa compared to a B-2 visa?

Generally speaking, visitors with a B-1 visa can stay in the U.S. for up to six months, while visitors with a B-2 visa can stay for up to one year. However, the exact length of stay is ultimately determined by the Customs and Border Protection officer at the port of entry.

3. Is it possible to extend the duration of stay for a B-1 visa compared to a B-2 visa?

Yes, it is possible to extend the duration of stay for a B-1 visa compared to a B-2 visa. The maximum length of stay for a B-1 visa is typically six months, but can be extended for up to one year with proper paperwork and justification. The maximum length of stay for a B-2 visa is typically three months, but can be extended for up to six months with proper paperwork and justification.

4. Can a person holding a B-1 visa perform any type of work in the US?

No, a person holding a B-1 visa typically cannot perform any type of work in the US. The B-1 visa is a temporary visitor visa designed for individuals traveling for business-related activities, such as to attend conferences, negotiate contracts, and consult with business associates. It does not permit employment in the US.

5. Is there a specific purpose or set of purposes that must be fulfilled to obtain a B-1 visa, but not for a B-2 visa?

Yes, the purpose of the B-1 visa is to allow a foreign national to enter the United States for business related activities such as consulting with business associates, attending a scientific, educational, professional or business convention or conference, or negotiating a contract. The purpose of the B-2 visa is for pleasure or tourism visits, such as for vacation, visiting family and friends, medical treatment, and participating in social events hosted by fraternal, social or service organizations.

6. Are there any fees associated with obtaining a B-1 or B-2 visa?

Yes. Currently, the standard B-1/B-2 visitor visa application fee is $160. Additionally, there are other fees that may be applicable depending on the specific case and situation.

7. What are the eligibility requirements for obtaining either type of visa?

The eligibility requirements for obtaining an immigrant visa are that the applicant must have a valid passport, must be admissible to the United States, must demonstrate that they will not become a public charge, and must meet all other applicable requirements.

The eligibility requirements for obtaining a nonimmigrant visa are that the applicant must have a valid passport, must demonstrate that they have strong ties to their homeland, must demonstrate that they can financially support themselves in the US and will not become a public charge, and must meet all other applicable requirements.

8. Is it possible to travel to more than one destination with a B-1 or B-2 visa?

Yes, it is possible to travel to more than one destination with a B-1 or B-2 visa. The visa holder must make sure they travel within the validity period of the visa and are able to provide evidence of sufficient funds for their entire trip.

9. What documents are required to apply for either type of visa?

For a visitor visa, the documents that are typically required include a valid passport, your itinerary for your trip, proof of financial stability, and evidence that you have ties to your home country that will ensure your return. For a student visa, the documents required typically include a valid passport, proof of acceptance to an accredited academic institution, evidence of financial stability to cover tuition and living expenses, and a medical certificate.

10. Are there any restrictions on what types of activities can be done while in the U.S. with either type of visa?

Yes, there are restrictions. With a B-1/B-2 visa, you may conduct business activities such as attending business conferences or meetings, negotiating contracts, consulting with business associates, etc. However, you are not allowed to participate in any type of gainful employment or study in the US. With an F-1 Visa, the activities that are allowed are limited to academic studies and certain types of practical training related to the field of study only. Working off campus is only allowed under limited circumstances.

11. Can someone hold both types of visas at the same time?

Yes, it is possible to hold both types of visas at the same time. However, this depends on the specific conditions of each visa and the laws of the respective countries.

12. Does either type of visa have an expiry date, or can it be renewed?

Both types of visas have an expiry date and can be renewed. However, the requirements for renewing a visa can vary based on the type of visa and the country of origin.

13. Can either type of visa be transferred from one person to another?

No, visas cannot be transferred from one person to another.

14. Are there any benefits to holding either type of visa compared to the other?

Yes. An E-2 visa offers the holder the ability to work legally in the United States, whereas an L-1 visa does not. The E-2 visa also does not require the holder to have a specific job offer or position in the United States. The L-1 visa, however, requires the holder to have a qualifying job offer or position in the United States. Additionally, the L-1 visa is often easier to obtain than the E-2 visa because it has less stringent eligibility requirements.

15. Can someone on either type of visa apply for permanent residence status in the U.S.?

Yes. A person on either a temporary non-immigrant or immigrant visa can apply to become a permanent resident of the United States. For a temporary non-immigrant visa holder, the process involves seeking an employer sponsor to file a petition for permanent residency on their behalf. An immigrant visa holder can apply for lawful permanent resident status by filing an application with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

16. Is it possible to change from one type of visa to another while in the US?

Yes, it is possible to change from one type of visa to another while in the US. This process is known as “visa transfer” or “visa change.” It requires filing an application with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Depending on the type of visa you are applying for, you may need to provide additional documentation such as a petition filed by an employer or family member, financial evidence, or medical exams.

17. Are there any special health requirements for obtaining either type of visa?

Yes, there are some health requirements for obtaining visas. For a nonimmigrant visa, all applicants must meet certain immunization requirements and have a medical exam done by an authorized doctor. For an immigrant visa, the applicant must complete an immigration medical examination with a panel physician. The medical exam is required to detect communicable diseases that could make the individual inadmissible to the U.S.

18. Can someone on either type of visa sponsor family members for visas?

Yes, depending on the type of visa. Certain visas, such as the F-1 student visa and J-1 exchange visitor visa, allow visa holders to bring certain family members or dependents on a derivative visa. For example, the F-2 visa is typically issued to spouses and unmarried minor children of F-1 students. J-2 visas are typically issued to spouses and unmarried children of J-1 exchange visitors. The H-1B visa allows for certain eligible family members to obtain an H-4 visa, which allows them to travel to the U.S. but does not permit them to work or study.

19. Does holding either type of visa qualify one for certain tax benefits in the US?

Yes, holding either type of visa can qualify one for certain tax benefits in the US. For example, the US allows certain foreign students and scholars to exclude certain types of income from their taxable income, including income they earned outside the US and some forms of scholarships and fellowships. Additionally, foreign students and scholars may be able to claim tax deductions for certain expenses related to their studies or research in the US.

20. Are certain countries excluded from being able to apply for either type of visa?

Yes, certain countries are excluded from being able to apply for either type of visa. The list of countries excluded changes frequently. Please contact the appropriate U.S. embassy or consulate for up-to-date information.