B-2 Tourist Visitor Visa
Dreaming of exploring the United States for tourism, family visits, or medical treatment? At Tewani Law, our immigration law practice offers bespoke B-2 visa services to make your travel aspirations a reality. Our seasoned attorneys are here to guide you through the visa application process with expertise and dedication.
What is the B-2 Visa?
The B-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows individuals to enter the United States temporarily for tourism, pleasure, or visiting friends and family. It is specifically designed for those who wish to engage in activities such as sightseeing, attending social events, receiving medical treatment, or participating in amateur sports or musical events.
Key Benefits of the B-2 Visa
- Temporary Stay: The B-2 visa allows for a stay of up to six months, with the possibility of extensions under certain circumstances.
- Multiple Entries: Visa holders can travel to the U.S. multiple times during the validity period of the visa, which can be up to ten years.
- Family Visits: The B-2 visa is ideal for individuals looking to visit family or friends residing in the U.S. without the need for a formal sponsorship.
- Medical Treatment: It provides access for individuals seeking medical treatment in the U.S., allowing them to consult with healthcare providers.
Who Should Apply for the B-2 Visa?
Individuals who wish to visit the United States for leisure, tourism, or to visit family and friends should apply for the B-2 visa. This visa is suitable for those who do not intend to engage in any employment or study while in the U.S. It is also appropriate for individuals seeking medical treatment or attending events that do not involve compensation.
Eligibility Requirements for the B-2 Visa
To be eligible for a B-2 visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Ties to home country: Applicants must demonstrate that they have a permanent residence outside the U.S. and intend to return after their visit. Evidence of binding ties to their home country, such as family, property, or employment, must be provided to assure the consular officer of their intent to return.
- No Employment: Applicants must not plan to work or study in the U.S. while on a B-2 visa.
- Sufficient Funds: They should have sufficient financial resources to cover their expenses during their stay in the U.S.
Activities Not Allowed on Visitor Visas
These activities require different visa categories and are not permitted on a visitor visa:
- Studying
- Employment
- Paid performances or any professional performance before a paying audience
- Arriving as a crewmember on a ship or aircraft
- Working as foreign press in radio, film, print journalism, or other information media
- Seeking permanent residence in the United States
- Birth tourism (traveling primarily to give birth in the United States to obtain U.S. citizenship for the child) is not allowed on a visitor visa.
Extending Your Visit
If Customs and Border Protection (CBP) approves your entry into the United States at the designated port of entry, you may receive a stamped Form I-94, Record of Arrival-Departure. Form I-94 is also available electronically on https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/#/home. Navigate to the “Get Most Recent I-94” page, you will need your passport information to retrieve the record. If you are unable to retrieve your Form I-94 we recommend that you contact Customs Border Patrol for more information. Your Form I-94 confirms the classification you were admitted to the United States as well as your validity period.
To stay beyond the period specified on the Form I-94, you may apply for an extension by filing Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, with USCIS. It is essential that you depart the United States or file a change/extension of status prior to expiry of the validity period.
What we Do and Why Work with Us
- In-Depth Strategy Call: Discuss your travel plans and visa requirements with our experienced attorneys, who will provide comprehensive guidance tailored to your needs.
- Application Support: Receive assistance in completing and submitting your B-2 visa application accurately and on time, ensuring compliance with USCIS guidelines.
- Document Preparation: Benefit from our expertise in gathering and organizing the necessary documentation for your visa application, streamlining the process for you.
- Country Specific Guidance: Although the requirements of the B2 Visa are the same for each country. Consulates may apply a different procedure or documentation requirements.
- Application Monitoring: Stay informed with regular updates on the status of your B-2 visa application, with proactive follow-up to address any queries or concerns.
Are you ready to embark on a memorable travel experience to the United States with a B-2 visa? Get in touch with our team today to schedule a Strategy Call. Let us take the stress out of the visa application process, guiding you towards a successful B-2 visa approval and unforgettable travel adventures.
How to Apply for the B-2 Visa
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
Assess whether your business activities qualify for the B-2 Visa based on the guidelines provided.
Step 2: Complete Form DS-160
Fill out the online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form (DS-160) on the U.S. Department of State’s website.
Step 3: Pay the Application Fee
Pay the non-refundable visa application fee.
Step 4: Schedule a Visa Interview
Book an appointment at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country for a visa interview.
Step 5: Prepare Supporting Documents
Gather all necessary documents, including your passport, invitation letter, evidence of business purpose, financial proof, and ties to your home country.
Step 6: Attend the Visa Interview
Attend your interview and be prepared to answer questions about your business trip and your intentions in the U.S.
Step 7: Receive Your Visa
If approved, your visa will be issued, and you can prepare for your business trip to the U.S.
Frequently Asked Questions
B2
- What activities are permitted on a B-2 Visa?
Permitted activities under a B-2 Visa include, but are not limited to:
- Tourism and vacationing
- Visiting friends and family
- Receiving medical treatment
- Participating in social events hosted by fraternal, social, or service organizations
- Participating in amateur musical, sports, or similar events without receiving payment
- Enrolling in a short recreational course of study, not for credit toward a degree (e.g., a two-day cooking class while on vacation)
- What activities are not allowed on a B-2 Visa?
Activities not allowed on a B-2 Visa include:
- Studying for credit towards a degree
- Employment or working
- Paid performances or any professional performance before a paying audience
- Arrival as a crewmember on a ship or aircraft
- Work as foreign press, radio, film, journalists, and other information media
- Permanent residence in the United States
- What supporting documents should I bring to the visa interview?
Supporting documents for a B-2 Visa interview may include:
- A valid passport with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the U.S.
- Form DS-160 confirmation page
- Visa application fee payment receipt
- A photograph that meets the U.S. visa photo requirements
- Evidence of the purpose of your trip, such as an itinerary or invitation letter
- Proof of ties to your home country, such as employment verification, property ownership, or family connections
- Financial documents, such as bank statements or pay stubs, to demonstrate your ability to cover expenses during your stay
- How long can I stay in the U.S. on a B-2 Visa?
The length of stay on a B-2 Visa is determined by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry. Typically, B-2 visa holders are granted an initial stay of up to six months. Extensions may be granted in certain circumstances, but the maximum duration of stay allowed is one year.
- Can I extend my stay on a B-2 Visa?
Yes, you can apply for an extension of stay on a B-2 Visa. To do so, file Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before your current stay expires. You must provide a valid reason for the extension and demonstrate that you have maintained your original status.
- Can I change my status from a B-2 Visa to another visa category?
Yes, it is possible to change your status from a B-2 Visa to another non-immigrant visa category or an immigrant visa category while in the U.S. You must file the appropriate application with USCIS and meet the eligibility requirements for the new visa category.
- What should I do if my B-2 Visa application is denied?
If your B-2 Visa application is denied, you may reapply by submitting a new application and paying the visa fee again. It is essential to address the reasons for the denial and provide additional documentation to strengthen your case. You may also seek the advice of an immigration attorney to assist with your reapplication.
- Can my family accompany me on a B-2 Visa?
Yes, your spouse and minor children can apply for their own B-2 Visas to accompany you to the U.S. Each family member must submit a separate visa application, pay the visa fee, and attend the visa interview.
- What are the fees associated with a B-2 Visa?
The fees associated with a B-2 Visa include:
- Visa Application Fee: A non-refundable fee that must be paid when applying for the visa.
- Reciprocity Fee: S countries may require an additional issuance fee based on reciprocity agreements between the U.S. and the applicant’s home country. This fee is paid if the visa is approved.
Related Links
Visa Appointment Wait Time
Check current wait time for Visa Appointments
Visitor Visa Informative Flyer
Department of State issued flyer on Visitor Visas
