B-1 Temporary Business Visa

The B-1 Business Visa is a nonimmigrant visa for temporary business visits to the United States. While this visa doesn't allow its holder to engage in productive employment within the country, it does permit the execution of limited business activities.

​Whether you're scouting for potential partnerships, attending meetings, or negotiating contracts, the B-1 visa is designed to accommodate a range of brief business-related endeavors in the USA.

Do I need a B-1 visa?

We frequently receive inquiries from individuals who are interested in applying for a B-1 Business Visa for short-term visits to the United States, such as attending a meeting or a seminar. What many don't realize is that similar activities can often be conducted under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), for those who qualify, without the need for a B-1 visa.

However, there are specific circumstances where the B-1 Business Visa is necessary. In addition to being required for nationals of countries not eligible to travel visa free under the VWP, if you are a passport holder from a country eligible for the VWP but have recently traveled to a nation on the U.S. government's VWP travel ban list, your eligibility for ESTA travel authorization would be compromised. In such situations, securing a B-1 Business Visa becomes essential for lawful entry into the United States.​

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How long can I stay in the US on a B-1 visa?

If you anticipate spending more than 90 days in the U.S. on a single business trip, or if you frequently visit the U.S. for business purposes, a B-1 visa may be the better option for you. The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) limits stays to 90 days and can subject you to additional scrutiny at the border if you have a history of frequent visits. On the other hand, the B-1 visa typically grants an initial stay of up to six months, which can be extended by an additional six months under certain conditions, allowing for a possible one-year stay in the United States.​

What can I do while on a B-1 visa?

B-1 visa holders may undertake the following B-1 permitted business activities while in the United States:

• Participation in a business convention, conference, or seminar
• Meet with lawyers regarding litigation
• Meet with business associates (Note: You cannot perform gainful work)
• Negotiate a contract
• Attend certain short term training

What can’t I do on a B-1 visa?

As a B-1 visa holder, you are prohibited from engaging in productive labor while in the U.S., meaning you cannot travel to the U.S. for gainful work purposes. Additionally, this visa does not permit you to reside or study in the country. It's essential that you maintain a permanent residence outside the United States during your stay and are prepared to provide evidence of such ties, if necessary.​

What if I need to perform productive work?

The B-1 visa regulations feature a special concession, known as the B-1 in lieu of H-1B visa, which allows its holder to engage in productive labor in the U.S. for a temporary period. This specific annotation on the B-1 visa serves to make this possible. To learn more about how you can perform productive labor in the United States under the B-1 in lieu of H-1B visa, click HERE.

Where can I learn more about the B-1 visa?

To learn more about the B-1 visa or to arrange an initial consultation with our B-1 business visa lawyer, please contact our office.