What is a B-1/ B-2 visa?

The B-1/B-2 visa is the most frequently requested type of visa, for people who want to visit the United States temporarily for business or tourism.

Some activities you are allowed to do while traveling with this type of visa are:

• Go on vacation;
• Visit family;
• Attending business meetings ;
• Attend work training;
• Receive medical treatment;
• Carry out independent investigations.

If you are traveling with this type of visa you cannot:

• Work in the United States whether you are being paid or not;
• You are not allowed to attend a school, university, or take English courses;
• Work as an Au Pair or “Nanny”.

B1 Visas

You should request a B1 visa, when your principal purpose of travel is exclusively for business. Some examples are: attend business meetings, negotiate a contract, participate in business or professional conferences or conventions, and carry out independent investigations, etc.

B2 Visas

You should request a B2 visa when your principal purpose of travel is exclusively for pleasure/tourism. Some examples are: to get to know the United States, visit family or friends, receive medical treatment, etc.

The Consular officer, will determine at the time of your visa interview, what type of visa corresponds to your principal purpose of travel.

Please keep in mind that an invitation letter sent to you by a family member or friend from the United States is not enough to grant a visa. Every visa applicant must qualify for the visa on their own merits.