U.S. Visas: B-1

B-1 visas are for people visiting the US for business purposes including: engaging in commercial transactions, negotiating contracts, consulting with clients or business associates, litigating, participating in conventions, conferences or seminars, undertaking independent research. Dependents can accompany B-1 holders with a B-2 visa. Neither the primary visa holder not the dependent are permitted to be gainfully employed. A B-1 visa stamp is valid for up to ten years. A B-1 holder is typically allowed a six month stay.

Who Qualifies For B-1 Visa Classification?

Eligible business activities include:

• Engaging in commercial transactions not involving gainful employment in the United States
• Negotiating contracts
• Consulting with clients or business associates
• Litigating
• Participating in scientific, educational, professional or business conventions, conferences, or seminars
• Undertaking independent research.

The B-1 visa excludes those people coming to study, work or represent the foreign press or information media.

A B-1 classification also includes the following under certain circumstances:

• Religious ministers and missionaries
• Board members of U.S. corporations
• Servants of non-immigrants or certain U.S. citizens here temporarily
• Professional athletes
• Entertainers
• Still photographers
• Musicians recording for sale outside the U.S.
• Employees of foreign airlines
• Persons who would ordinarily qualify for H-1 or H-3 qualifications

What are the Requirements for a B-1 Visa?

CHANGE OF STATUS IN THE U.S.:

If the applicant is presently in the United States, in valid status, VISANOW can file an application for a change of status to B-1 with the USCIS.

B-1 APPLICATION AT A U.S. CONSULATE:

If the applicant is residing outside of the United States, the applicant will submit Form DS-156 and possibly the DS-157 to the Consular office in the country where he/she resides.

An interview at the local U.S. embassy is required for almost all applicants for B-1 visas. The waiting times for the interviews will vary. If the B-1 visa is approved, the embassy will issue a visa stamp in the applicant’s passport within a week of the interview. The officer may request that some applicants provide additional information.

Applicants for a B-1 visa must show that:

• They have “nonimmigrant intent” i.e. intent to depart the U.S. after the completion of their activities in the U.S
• They have a foreign residence that they intend to maintain
• They will be engaging in activities permitted under the B-1 visa and they will not be engaging in gainful employment in the U.S
• They have adequate financial arrangements to carry out the purpose of their visit

Can Dependents Accompany the B-1 Visa Holder?

Yes; dependents (spouses or children) of a B-1 visa holder are considered B-2 non-immigrants when accompanying a person on a B-1 visa.

Can B-1 Visa Holders be Employed?

No, there is no gainful employment allowed under this visa classification for either the primary visa holder or the dependent.

How Long Is The B-1 Visa Valid?

A B-1 visa is valid for up to one year. Upon entry, a B-1 visa holder is usually given a six-month stay, which can be renewed for another six-month period. In certain situations the visa can be renewed in 12-month increments (e.g. religious/missionary workers).