US Visas
The US B-1 visa and B-2 visa are both short-term non-resident US visas which are granted to people who will be visiting the USA for a short period. Non-resident visas will be granted according to the purpose of the candidate’s visit to the USA. Those who will be temporarily relocating to the USA for the purposes of tourism, or to visit family and friends will require a B-2 visa, often referred to as the “visitor for pleasure visa”. Those who will be entering the USA to engage in business activities will require a B-1 visa, otherwise known as a “visitor for pleasure” US visas.
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You can take the first step towards your USA visa application today by visiting the Global Visas online assessment area.
Applying for a USA B-2 Visa
The B-2 visa for USA is variously referred to as a US tourist visa, a US travel visa and a US visit visa and is essentially a short-term visa for those interested in short-term US immigration. B2 visas are normally issued for a period of no more than six months and as a non-immigrant visa, they oblige the candidate to return to their own country of residence on or before the expiry of their visa for the US. US tourist visas do not lead to permanent residency in the USA and it is not possible for a candidate to apply for a longer-term US immigration service whilst in America on a visit visa. However, in some circumstances, a US tourist visa may be extended by an additional six months. It is important that the candidate is able to demonstrate that their presence in the USA is still temporary.
A US B-2 visa may also be granted where a candidate needs to temporarily relocate to the USA in order to undergo medical treatment, and in addition, candidates may study in the USA whilst in possession of a short stay US visa. However, courses of study may not exceed the visa’s length and candidates are not permitted to work in the USA at any time.
Applying for a USA B-1 Visit
The US B-1 visa should not be confused with the other long term US business visas and work visas included in the employment based US green cards. Like a B-2 visitor for pleasure visa, the B-1 visa is a short-term non-immigrant visa, although its focus and duration are different.
The B-1 visa is designed for those who wish to conduct business affairs in the United States. B-1 visa holders may engage in a variety of business related activities including attending meetings and conferences, seeking premises, suppliers, and clients and otherwise preparing for opening a US branch or a foreign-based company. However, like a US visit visa, it is not permitted to engage in any form of employment whilst in the US. A B-1 visa is generally issued according to the requirements of the individual case; however the maximum duration permitted is 12 months. A business visa is not transferable nor can it be extended, and like a visitor visa, candidates must return to their country of residence.
US B1 and B2 Visas – Eligibility Requirements
As non-immigrant visas, the US B-1 and B-2 visas are chiefly concerned with a candidate being able to support themselves during their time in the USA, and the assurance that they will return to their country of residence once their visa expires. Since these visas do not lead to the opportunity to progress towards long term or permanent residency, no demands above and beyond the temporary and self-sufficient nature of the visit are employed. Demonstrating that the visit is temporary can usually be satisfied by providing evidence of ties to the country of residence. This may be in the form of evidence of family commitments, ownership of property or commitments to their employer. No specific arrangements are made for spouse and/or dependents and all candidates who wish to apply for a B-1 visa or B-2 visa must do so in their own capacity.
B1 In Lieu of H1-B Visa
The US H-1B visa, in effect a US work permit allows US based employers to seek and employ skilled migrants from overseas. It is a common practice for candidates to enter the USA on this type of permit whilst beginning proceedings for a green card application from within the country. However, in specific circumstances a B1 visa may be granted in lieu of an H1-B. This may occur where an H1-B visa would normally be required, but the candidate is paid from outside the USA. In this way a B-1 holder can in effect work in the USA, however this will only be considered where a candidate is engaged in speciality work. It is important to note that a holder of a B-1 visa in lieu of an H1-B cannot begin proceedings for a greencard once in the USA in the same way that an H1-B holder could. However, such a candidate could, subject to obtaining a permanent job offer progress to a standard H1-B visa which would then allow them to progress to a green card application.
At Global Visas out team of specialist US immigration consultants can offer reliable advice and service throughout the process of applying for your US visa. Visit our online assessment area today to begin.
