Visitor Visas (B-1 / B-2)
Helping You Travel to the United States Legally and Confidently
Planning a Trip to the U.S.? We Can Help with Your Visitor Visa.
If you're planning to travel to the United States temporarily—whether for tourism, business meetings, family visits, or medical treatment—you will likely need a B-1 or B-2 Visitor Visa. At Veritas Immigration Law, P.A., we help individuals and families around the world navigate the U.S. visitor visa process with clarity and confidence.
What Is a Visitor Visa?
Visitor visas fall under the B visa category:
· B-1 Visa – For business-related travel (e.g., conferences, meetings, negotiating contracts)
· B-2 Visa – For tourism, vacation, visiting family or friends, or receiving medical treatment
These visas are nonimmigrant visas, meaning they do not lead directly to permanent residency and are intended for short-term stays only (generally 6 months or less).
Who Needs a Visitor Visa?
· You likely need a visitor visa if:
· You are not a citizen of a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) country
· You are planning to stay longer than 90 days, or
· You were previously denied ESTA entry or are otherwise inadmissible under the VWP
Citizens of VWP countries may apply for ESTA instead for stays of 90 days or less.
How to Apply for a Visitor Visa: Step-by-Step Process
1. Complete the DS-160 Online Application
· This is the U.S. Department of State's nonimmigrant visa application form.
· You will receive a confirmation page with a barcode.
2. Pay the Visa Application Fee
· The current fee is \$185 (as of 2025).
· Payment is made online or through the U.S. embassy's designated system in your country.
3. Schedule the Visa Interview
· Required for applicants between ages 14 and 79.
· Appointments are made at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.
· Wait times vary depending on the location.
4. Attend the Visa Interview
You must demonstrate:
· The purpose of your trip
· Strong ties to your home country (employment, family, property)
· Financial ability to cover your trip
· Intent to depart the U.S. after your visit
· Supporting documents may include:
· Travel itinerary
· Invitation letter (if visiting friends/family)
· Proof of employment or enrollment in school
· Evidence of financial support
5. Receive the Visa
· If approved, your passport will be returned with a visa stamp.
· Validity varies by nationality (commonly 1–10 years), but each entry is limited to 6 months or less at a time.
B-1 Visa: Permitted Business Activities
Examples of allowed B-1 activities include:
· Attending business meetings or conferences
· Negotiating contracts
· Conducting market research
· Settling estates
· Consulting with business associates
Not Allowed: Employment, hands-on work, or receiving compensation from a U.S. entity.
B-2 Visa: Common Tourist Purposes
Examples of allowed B-2 uses include:
· Tourism and vacation
· Visiting friends or family
· Attending social events or ceremonies
· Receiving medical treatment
· Short recreational courses (e.g., cooking class)
Not Allowed: Studying for credit, long-term medical stays, or any unauthorized employment.
Can I Extend or Change My Status While in the U.S.?
Yes, under certain conditions.
Extension of Stay
File Form I-539 before your current authorized stay expires.
You must show:
· Valid reason for extended stay
· Financial means to support yourself
· No violations of status
Change of Status
· You may apply to change to another nonimmigrant status (e.g., student F-1, spouse of H-1B, etc.)
· You cannot work until USCIS approves your new status.
· Not available if you entered on ESTA/VWP.
Important:
Entering the U.S. on a B visa with the intention to adjust status to a green card is generally considered visa fraud. However, legitimate changes in plans after arrival may be addressed case-by-case with proper legal guidance.
Common Reasons for Visitor Visa Denial
· Lack of strong ties to your home country
· Inconsistent answers or disorganization at the interview
· Inadequate financial documentation
· Suspicion of intent to stay permanently
· Previous immigration violations
A denial under INA §214(b) is common and may be overcome in future applications with improved evidence.
How Veritas Immigration Law, P.A. Can Help
We offer guidance and legal support for:
· Completing and submitting DS-160 forms
· Preparing for consular interviews
· Drafting invitation or support letters
· Overcoming prior denials
· B visa extensions or status changes
· Visitor visa strategies for accompanying relatives
Whether you're planning a family visit or seeking medical care in the U.S., we'll help you present the strongest possible case to the consulate and protect your immigration future
