The B1 Visa
The B1 visa is available to noncitizens willing to participate 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
Qualifications
To qualify for an B1 visa, an applicant must meet the following requirements:
- 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 sufficient funds to cover the expenses of the trip and your stay in the United States
- You have a residence outside the United States that you have no intention of abandoning, as well as other binding ties that will ensure your return abroad at the end of the visit
- You are otherwise admissible to the United States
How to Apply for an B1 Visa
If you meet the requirements for an B1 visa, here are the steps you need to complete for approval:
- Fill out a Form G-28. This form entitles your attorney or accredited representative to act on your behalf,
- Complete the online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160). You must complete the form and bring a printed copy to their interview.
- You will need to upload a current photo when completing your DS-160.
- Pay the appropriate fees.
If you are outside the United States, you should apply for your B1 visa at a consulate or embassy. It is recommended to work with a qualified immigration attorney to ensure your documents are filed correctly and expeditiously.
Additional Information
An B1 visa comes with certain benefits, including:
- You can work legally in the United States,
- You can freely travel in the United States.