B-1 / B-2 Temporary Visitor
The B-1 visa is for individuals who wish to temporarily visit the US for business.
The B-2 visa is for individuals who wish to temporarily visit the US or visit with family or friends.
General Requirements
You must establish that:
- Your visit will be temporary;
- You have a valid passport;
- You maintain a foreign residence which you have no intention of abandoning;
- You have sufficient financial means to maintain yourself during your visit;
- You are admissible to the US or you have obtained a waiver for any ground of inadmissibility.
Generally, if you wish to visit the US, you must first obtain a non-immigrant tourist visa.
A visa does not guarantee your admission into the US. CBP can deny you admission or limit the period that you are authorized to stay in the US.
If CBP authorizes your admission into the US, you will receive a Form I-94. If you wish to extend your stay beyond the date indicated on the Form I-94, you can apply for an extension with the USCIS.
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP)
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) permits citizens of certain countries to travel to the US for tourism for a period of up to 90 days without having to first obtain a tourist visa. However, you are not eligible to apply to extend your stay nor change your status with the USCIS.
For a list of the countries who participate in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) click here.
Please visit the ESTA website for more information about the program.