B-1 / B-2 Visa Cost

Currently, the government filing fee for a B visa is $185, which does not include the cost of gathering documents and evidence and acquiring passport photos.

 

B Visa Requirements

A B1/B2 visitor visa is used for many types of trips to the U.S., including business and non-business activities like tourism. If you want to apply for a B1 or B2 visa, you need to prove that your trip to the U.S. is only for a short time.

You must also show proof that you plan to return to your home country after your visit, and that you have a place to live outside the U.S. that you will not leave for good. These points help show that you will follow the rules of the B1/B2 visa.

Reasons for travel under a B1 visitor visa include:

• Business consultations: This might include meetings, negotiations, or discussions with business associates in the U.S.
• Attending conferences or seminars: This can cover professional, educational, scientific, or business conventions.
• Settling an estate: If someone inherits property or assets in the U.S., a B1 visa can allow them to handle these matters legally.
• Contract negotiations: If a person needs to sign or negotiate a contract with a U.S. company, a B1 visa is often the correct choice.
• Professional examination and licensing: Some professionals must be in the U.S. to take exams or get licenses only available there.

 

Reasons for travel under a B2 tourist visa include:

• Tourism: This could be sightseeing, visiting famous landmarks, exploring cities, or simply enjoying the country’s culture and atmosphere.
• Visiting family or friends: Many people use a B2 visa to visit their loved ones living in the U.S.
• Medical treatment: If someone requires medical treatment or a procedure that’s available in the U.S., they might apply for a B2 visa.
• Social events: Attending events like concerts, cooking classes, conventions, festivals, or other social gatherings can be another reason for using a B2 visa.
• Participation in events or contests: If the event doesn’t involve professional participation (like amateur tournaments or contests), a B2 visa could be suitable.
• Short courses of study: If the course duration is less than 18 hours per week, this falls under B2 visa regulations.

 

You cannot travel under this visa to engage any of the following:

Study

Long-term employment by a U.S. firm

Paid performances, or any professional performance before a paying audience

Arrival as a crewmember on a ship or aircraft

Work as foreign press, in radio, film, print journalism, or other information media

Permanent residence in the United States