Apply for a U.S. Tourist and Visitor Visa

The U.S. Tourist and Visitor Visa—commonly known as the B-1/B-2 visa—is one of the most popular ways for foreign nationals to temporarily visit the United States. Whether you're planning a family vacation, attending a business meeting, or receiving medical treatment, this nonimmigrant visa category allows individuals from around the world to explore opportunities in the U.S. without permanent immigrant intent.

What Is a U.S. Tourist or Visitor Visa?

The B-1/B-2 visa provides a gateway to experience the cultural, professional, and personal opportunities the U.S. offers—while ensuring you remain compliant with immigration regulations during your stay.

Key Features of the B-1/B-2 Visa:

Temporary Stay: Usually valid for up to 6 months, with possible extensions.
Multiple Entries: Many are issued for 10 years with multiple-entry privileges, depending on your nationality.
No Employment Authorization: You may not work or engage in study that leads to a degree.
Intent to Return Home: You must demonstrate non-immigrant intent—proof that you plan to return to your home country.

How to Apply for a U.S. Visitor Visa

The application process can vary depending on the country you're applying from, but generally includes the following steps:

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Complete Form DS-160: This online nonimmigrant visa application form is the foundation of your B-1/B-2 visa request.
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Schedule a Visa Interview: Required for most applicants aged 14-79. You'll attend this at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
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Pay the Visa Fee: As of 2024, the fee for a B-1/B-2 visa is $185 USD. Confirm payment methods with your local U.S. embassy.
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Prepare Supporting Documents: Bring a valid passport, a passport-size photo, proof of ties to your home country, financial documents, and any invitation letters (if applicable).
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Attend the Interview: A consular officer will ask about your travel plans, background, and ties to your home country to assess if you qualify.

The B visa is divided into two classifications:

Often, the visa is issued as a combined B-1/B-2 visa, allowing entry for both business and pleasure, depending on your stated purpose.

B-1 Visa (Business Visitors)

For those traveling to the U.S. for short-term business activities such as attending conferences, settling estates, negotiating contracts, or consulting with business associates.

B-2 Visa (Tourism and Personal Travel)

For tourism, vacation, visiting friends or relatives, medical treatment, and participation in amateur events or social conventions.

Common Reasons for Applying

The U.S. Tourist and Visitor Visa is suitable for a wide variety of travel needs:

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Attending family events like weddings, graduations, or reunions.
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Receiving specialized medical treatment
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Exploring tourist destinations across the U.S.
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Participating in non-paying amateur sports or artistic events
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Meeting business partners or attending industry conferences
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Handling property or estate matters in the U.S.

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

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Show Strong Ties to Home: Provide evidence such as employment letters, family obligations, property ownership, or return travel itineraries.
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Demonstrate Financial Capacity: Bank statements, tax returns, or affidavits of support from U.S. contacts may help prove you can fund your trip.
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Be Clear About Your Purpose: Whether it's medical treatment or business attendance, your documentation and interview responses should align.
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Avoid Overstaying or Violating Terms: Overstaying or working without authorization on a B-1/B-2 visa can jeopardize future U.S. visa approvals.

Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

If you are from a Visa Waiver Program country, you may not need to apply for a B visa. The VWP allows nationals of certain countries to enter the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa, but only for tourism or certain business purposes. Travelers must first apply for authorization via the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).

Can You Extend a B-1/B-2 Visa?

Yes, you may request an extension of stay before your authorized stay expires by filing Form I-539 with USCIS. You must show legitimate reasons for the extension and prove that you still meet visa conditions.

However, extensions are not guaranteed and should not be relied upon as a way to remain in the U.S. long-term. Always comply with the dates stamped in your I-94 Arrival/Departure Record.

What Happens If You Overstay?

Overstaying a tourist visa—even by a few days—can have serious consequences. This may include:

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Cancellation of your existing visa
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Denial of future U.S. visa applications
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Bars on reentry for 3 or 10 years, depending on the duration of the overstay

If you realize you cannot depart in time, it's critical to consult an immigration attorney immediately to explore legal options.