The visitor visa is one of the most requested US visas. It has two types depending on your purpose: B1 for business and B2 for tourism. In most cases, a combined B1/B2 visa is issued covering both.
B1: business
For temporary business activities, such as:
- Consulting with business associates.
- Attending scientific, educational, professional or business conventions and conferences.
- Negotiating contracts.
- Settling an estate.
B2: tourism and visits
For pleasure, visits or medical treatment, such as:
- Tourism and vacations.
- Visiting family and friends.
- Medical treatment.
- Participating in social events.
- Unpaid, amateur participation in musical or sports events.
- A short recreational course that does not count toward a degree.
Quick comparison
| Item | B1 | B2 |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Temporary business | Tourism, visits, treatment |
| Examples | Conferences, meetings, contracts | Vacations, family visits, treatment |
| Paid work | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Academic study | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Form | DS-160 | DS-160 |
What neither visa allows
- Employment or payment from a US source.
- Study for academic credit, which requires an F1 visa.
- Working as a journalist or as aircraft or ship crew.
- Permanent residence.
Visa validity vs length of stay
A common mistake is confusing visa validity with length of stay. Validity is the period during which you can travel and request entry; your permitted stay is set by border officials on arrival and recorded in your I-94.
Make sure the purpose stated on your form matches what you say in the interview and your supporting documents.
