The B-1 business visa is available to visitors from all nations coming to the U.S. for business.
The visa is often issued for ten years, valid for multiple entries.
B-1 business visitor status is usually granted for the duration of the business event [one month] and may not involve local employment.
No prior CIS approval is required. No “derivatives” are allowed: Spouse / child [under 21] must qualify independently. Presumption of immigrant intent applies to all.
B-1 Visa Qualifications
You may be eligible for a B-1 visa if you will be participating in business activities of a commercial or professional nature in the United States, including, but not limited to:
- Consulting with business associates
- Traveling for a scientific, educational, professional or business convention, or a conference on specific dates
- Settling an estate
- Negotiating a contract
- Participating in short-term training
- Transiting through the United States: certain persons may transit the United States with a B-1 visa
- Deadheading: certain air crewmen may enter the United States as deadhead crew with a B-1 visa
B-1 Visa Requirements
You must demonstrate the following in order to be eligible to obtain a B-1 visa:
- The purpose of your trip is to enter the United States for business of a legitimate nature
- You plan to remain for a specific limited period of time
- You have the funds to cover the expenses of the trip and your stay in the United States
- You have a residence outside the United States in which you have no intention of abandoning, as well as other binding ties which will ensure your return abroad at the end of the visit
- You are otherwise admissible to the United States