B-1/B-2 Visitor Visa Requirements and Nonimmigrant Intent

Immigration » B-1/B-2 visitor visas » Requirements

A visitor visa is for a temporary stay. The B-1 is for business activities, and the B-2 is for tourism, family visits and medical care. You must show you will return home.

What you must show

• Your trip has a lawful, temporary purpose.
• You can pay for the trip or have someone who will.
• You have ties that make you likely to return, such as work, family, property or studies.
• You are admissible.

Permitted B-1 activities

• Meetings, conferences and negotiations.
• Contract signing and consulting with business partners.
• Installing or servicing equipment under a warranty, in some cases.

Not permitted

• Working for a U.S. employer.
• Studying for a degree.
• Paid performances.

Intent problems

If officers believe you plan to stay, the visa can be refused. Prior overstays and sudden changes of plans can also cause problems.

B-1/B-2 visitor visas guide

• B-1/B-2 visitor visas overview
• B-1/B-2 Visitor Visa Requirements and Nonimmigrant Intent
• B-1/B-2 Visa Application and Interview Guide
• Extending a Visitor Stay and Common Status Problems
• B-1/B-2 Visa Frequently Asked Questions
• B-1 Business Visitor: What You Can and Cannot Do
• B-2 Visitor Visa: Tourism, Family Visits and Medical Treatment
• B-1/B-2 Visa Refusal Under Section 214(b): Why It Happens and What to Do
• Visa Waiver Program and ESTA: Who Can Travel Without a Visa

How our firm helps with visitor visas

• We evaluate the purpose of your trip and your ties abroad, and tell you honestly how strong the application is.
• We help you build a clean, consistent record, which matters if you ever apply for a work visa or green card.
• We review past refusals and overstays and plan the safest next step.
• We advise on whether a visitor visa, the Visa Waiver Program or another visa fits your plan.

Situations we handle

• Applicants refused under section 214(b)
• Visitors who need more time
• Family visits and medical travel
• Business travelers unsure what activities are allowed

Why clients choose our firm

• A Texas-licensed attorney serving immigration clients in all 50 states.
• Russian-language service for clients and families.
• Clear communication and updates through our client portal.
• A full review of your history before anything is filed, so problems are caught early.
• Organized filings and representation through interviews, requests for evidence and appeals.

Get help with b-1/b-2 visitor visas

Request a consultation to review your situation. Legal plan members can mention their plan when booking.

This page is general information, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Immigration rules, policies and fees change often. Last updated: November 2026.