The B-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa for persons who want to enter the United States temporarily for business. A visa allows a foreign citizen to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry and request permission to enter the United States. A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States.
You must demonstrate the purpose of your trip is for temporary business activities
You must show intent to depart the United States after your business is concluded
You must prove sufficient funds to cover expenses during your stay
You must maintain a residence abroad which you have no intention of abandoning
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Regulatory Criteria
Permitted Business Activities
The B-1 visa allows temporary entry to the United States for specific business purposes. These activities must be temporary in nature and not constitute employment.
Examples
Consult with business associates
Attend a scientific, educational, professional, or business convention or conference
Settle an estate
Negotiate a contract
Activities NOT Permitted on B-1 Visa
Certain activities are not permitted on a B-1 business visitor visa and require different visa categories.
Examples
Employment or work for a U.S. employer
Paid performances, or any professional performance before a paying audience
Study for credit toward a degree
Work as foreign press, in radio, film, print journalism, or other information media
Permanent residence in the United States
Visa Application Process
Complete Form DS-160, pay the $185 application fee, and schedule an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Gather required documentation including evidence of the business purpose of your trip.
Examples
Complete Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160
Upload photo meeting photograph requirements
Pay $185 visa application fee
Schedule visa interview at U.S. Embassy or Consulate
Required Documentation
You must demonstrate the purpose of your trip, your intent to depart after your business is concluded, and your ability to pay all costs of the trip.
Examples
Passport valid for at least six months beyond period of stay
DS-160 confirmation page
Evidence of the business purpose of your trip
Evidence of ties to your home country and intent to return
Proof of ability to pay all travel costs
Personal or Domestic Employees (B-1)
You may apply for a B-1 visitor visa to work in the United States as a personal or domestic employee for your employer in limited situations.
Examples
Employer is a U.S. citizen with permanent home abroad, temporarily visiting the U.S.
Employer is a foreign citizen in the U.S. on B, E, F, H, I, J, L, M, O, P, Q or TN visa
Must read Legal Rights and Protections pamphlet before applying
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Application Process
Complete DS-160
Complete Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160.
Pay Fee
Pay the $185 non-refundable visa application fee.
Schedule Interview
Schedule visa interview at U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Gather Documents
Prepare passport, DS-160 confirmation, and business purpose evidence.
Attend Interview
Consular officer determines eligibility based on U.S. law requirements.
Enter U.S.
If approved, travel to U.S. port-of-entry and request admission from CBP.
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Key Benefits
Temporary entry to conduct business activities in the United States
Attend business conferences, conventions, and meetings
Negotiate contracts and consult with business associates
Multiple entry visas may be issued for frequent business travelers
May apply for extension through USCIS if needed
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Documents Needed
Passport valid for at least six months beyond period of stay
DS-160 confirmation page
Visa application fee payment receipt
Photo meeting photograph requirements
Evidence of the business purpose of your trip
Evidence of employment and ties to home country
Proof of ability to pay all travel costs
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work on a B-1 visa?
No. An individual on a B-1 visitor visa is not permitted to accept employment or work in the United States. The B-1 is for temporary business activities such as consulting, attending conferences, negotiating contracts, or settling an estate.
How long can I stay in the United States on a B-1 visa?
The CBP officer at the port-of-entry will determine your authorized stay and provide an admission stamp or paper Form I-94 showing the date you must depart. You may request an extension through USCIS if needed.
What happens if I overstay my B-1 visa?
Failure to depart the United States on time results in being out of status. Your visa will be automatically voided and you may be ineligible for future visas.
Can I change my status while in the United States?
If your plans change (for example, you receive a job offer), you may be able to request a change in your nonimmigrant status through USCIS. However, once you depart the United States, you must apply for a new visa in the appropriate category.
Is my valid visa in an expired passport still valid?
Yes. Unless canceled or revoked, a visa is valid until its expiration date. You may use your valid visa in your expired passport along with a new valid passport for travel and admission to the United States.
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Fees
Attorney Fee
$420
DOS Fee each applicant
$185
Fees are estimates and may change. Contact us for a quote for your specific case.
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