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When planning a short-term visit to the United States, choosing the correct visitor visa is essential. Generally, the U.S. government issues non-immigrant visas for either business or leisure travel. Among these options, the main categories include the B-1 visa, the B-2 visa and the combined B-1/B-2 visa.
Therefore, to help you decide, the sections below explain each option clearly and simply.
The B-1 visa applies to temporary business activities in the U.S. However, employment or salary from an American company is not permitted under this category. Consequently, applicants must limit activities strictly to approved business purposes.
Typical B-1 purposes include:
By contrast, this category covers leisure and personal travel and is therefore the most commonly issued tourist visa.
Common B-2 activities include:
In many practical situations, consular officers issue a combined B-1/B-2 visa that supports both business and tourism travel.
For example, a traveller may attend meetings first and later extend the stay for sightseeing. As a result, separate applications are unnecessary for such trips.
Typically, the primary expense for a U.S. visitor visa is the Machine Readable Visa fee, which must be paid before booking an interview.
Currently, the charge is:
Important Points About the Fee:
In addition, applicants should keep the following in mind:
Therefore, always verify the latest amount on the official U.S. visa website before payment.
During biometrics and interviews, applicants must carry:
To strengthen your case, additional proof of ties and finances is recommended.
Salaried Applicants:
Business Owners:
Retired Applicants:
Family & Property Proof:
In addition, you must show the ability to fund your trip:
Your reason for visiting must be clearly supported.
Tourism:
Visiting Family/Friends:
Medical Treatment:
Ultimately, the final decision is made by the consular officer during your interview.
