B-1 Visa: Temporary Business Travel to the U.S.
If you need to travel to the U.S. for a short-term business visit—such as attending meetings, negotiating contracts, or participating in conferences—the B-1 visa may be the right option for you.
We help individuals from around the world navigate the visa process with confidence. Whether you’re exploring partnerships or attending key business events, we can guide you through every step to ensure your entry to the U.S. is smooth and compliant.
What Is a B-1 Visa?
The B-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa for individuals entering the U.S. temporarily for business purposes. It does not permit you to work for a U.S. company or receive payment from a U.S. source.
Typical reasons for a B-1 visa include:
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Attending business meetings or conferences
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Negotiating contracts
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Conducting market research
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Settling estates
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Consulting with U.S. business associates
You must demonstrate that your stay is temporary and that you intend to return to your home country afterward.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for a B-1 visa, you must:
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Live outside the U.S. with no intent to immigrate
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Have a specific business purpose for your visit
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Be able to financially support yourself while in the U.S.
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Show evidence of ties to your home country (e.g., employment, family, property)
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Prove that you’ll leave the U.S. when your visa expires
Examples of supporting documents include return plane tickets, hotel reservations, a letter from your employer, and bank statements.
How Long Can You Stay?
The initial period of stay is typically up to 6 months, depending on your travel purpose. In some cases, an extension of up to another 6 months may be granted—but only for compelling reasons (e.g., unexpected business delays or medical issues).
Traveling with Family
Family members cannot accompany you on a B-1 visa unless they also have their own valid business purpose. If they are joining you for tourism or personal travel, they must apply for a B-2 visa.
Important Limitations
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You cannot be employed by a U.S. company while on a B-1 visa
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You cannot convert or adjust status to permanent residency (Green Card) while in the U.S.
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You must leave the U.S. when your visa expires, or you may face serious consequences, including bans on future entries
If you’re considering staying long-term or pursuing a Green Card, other visas—such as E-2, L-1, or H-1B—may be more appropriate.
How to Apply
The B-1 visa application process includes:
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Completing Form DS-160 (online visa application)
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Scheduling an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country
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Preparing supporting documentation
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Attending the visa interview
The process may seem simple—but a single error or missing document can lead to rejection. That’s why it’s wise to have experienced legal support on your side.
B-1 vs. Visa Waiver Program
If your country is part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you may not need a B-1 visa at all. Under the VWP, you can visit the U.S. for business or pleasure for up to 90 days without a visa. We can help you determine if this option applies to you.