General Information on Business Visas
Foreigners working for a foreign entity are allowed to visit the United States on a B-1 Business Visitor Visa. B1 Business Visas are more advantageous than visa waivers for various reasons depending on the circumstances, including visa extensions and adjustment of status.
Business Visa Eligibility Requirements
Foreign nationals interested in visiting the United States for business purposes that do not involve receiving salary or payment are eligible to apply for a B-1 Business Visa. Additional screening and interviews are now required at most United States Embassies and Consulates due to events of September 11th, 2001. It is vital to follow the instructions on the B-1 Business Visitor Visa Application Guide for the visa to be issued.
Business Visa Length of Stay
Persons admitted to the United States on a B1 Nonimmigrant Business Visa are usually issued a 6-month stay. The maximum length of stay for visitor visa holders is 6 months. The immigration officer at the port of entry determines how long each visitor is allowed to stay in the country. Most visitors have their I-94 cards stamped with a 6-month stay, however the immigration officer has the right to issue a shorter stay on a case by case basis. Upon entry into the United States, the foreign visitor has the right to request an extension of stay.
B-1 Business Visa Change of Status
Individuals who enter the United States on B-1 Business Visas are normally eligible to change status to permanent resident (Green Card holder) if they qualify, or to other non-immigrant status, such as temporary workers (H-1B, H-2B, E-1, E-2, E-3), student (F-1 Student Visa), among other categories. Individuals who enter the United States under the the Visa Waiver Program are not eligible to change status. The option to change status is the major advantage of Nonimmigrant Visas over the Visa Waiver Program.
Important Warning for Business Visa Holders
Persons admitted to the United States under a B-1 Business Visitor Visa are not allowed to work or receive any kind of payment while staying in the United States. Foreign nationals who wish to work in the United States must apply for a work visa, such as an H-1B or H-2B Visa.
The B-1 Business Visa Application Guide includes:
