Non-Immigrant Visas
Business Visitors B-1 / B-2
The B-1/B-2 Visa is the most common entry point to the United States. Knowing its limits and how to protect your status can make the difference between a successful visit and an immigration problem.
Millions of people enter the U.S. each year on visitor visas, yet many are unaware of the exact rules on length of stay, permitted activities, and extension options. Attorney Jesus Reyes, in Miami, provides clear and precise guidance so your visit is fully legal and complication-free.
What is the B-1/B-2 Visa?
The B-1 Visa is for business visitors: people traveling to the U.S. to negotiate contracts, attend conferences, consult with business partners, or engage in business activities that do not involve receiving a salary from a U.S. source. It does not authorize employment in the U.S.
The B-2 Visa is for tourism, pleasure, vacations, visits to family or friends, medical treatment, and recreational activities. It also does not authorize work. Both visas are frequently issued together as a combined "B-1/B-2" document.
Upon entry, the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer sets the authorized period of stay on Form I-94, generally up to six months. This is the date that actually matters — not the visa expiration date stamped in your passport.
Who can apply for a B-1/B-2 Visa?
To obtain the visa, the consulate will evaluate that you meet these fundamental requirements:
- A legitimate business or pleasure travel purpose, with a clear and defined itinerary.
- Strong ties to your home country — employment, property, family, or other responsibilities that ensure your return.
- Sufficient funds to cover your stay without needing to work in the U.S.
- No intention of immigrating permanently or seeking employment during the visit.
- No prior deportation, immigration status violations, or outstanding exclusion orders.
- A valid passport and an accurately completed DS-160 application form.
Application process
Case evaluation
Attorney Jesus Reyes reviews your immigration history, the purpose of travel, and your ties to your home country to anticipate potential consular objections and prepare you thoroughly.
Preparation and DS-160 form
The DS-160 form is prepared with precision, the correct fee is determined, and the consular appointment is scheduled at the appropriate consulate or embassy.
Consular interview
You receive guidance on how to present your case convincingly, which documents to bring, and how to answer the consular officer's questions with confidence and clarity.
Extension or change of status (if applicable)
If you are already in the U.S. and need more time, Form I-539 allows you to request an extension before your I-94 expires. Attorney Jesus Reyes prepares and files this application on time.
Frequently asked questions
Can I study with a B-1/B-2 Visa?+
You may take short recreational courses (fewer than 18 hours per week) or tourism-based courses, but you cannot enroll in formal academic programs. For formal studies you need an F-1 or M-1 Visa.
Can I apply for an extension if I want to stay longer?+
Yes. If you have a valid reason, you can request an extension by filing Form I-539 with USCIS before your I-94 expires. It is not guaranteed and must be requested with sufficient lead time.
What happens if I stay beyond my authorized I-94 date?+
Remaining beyond your I-94 date generates unlawful presence, which can result in 3- or 10-year bars of inadmissibility for future U.S. entries. It is essential to leave on time or legally extend your status.
What is the difference between B-1, B-2, and the ESTA / Visa Waiver Program?+
The B-1 Visa authorizes business activities (meetings, conferences, contract negotiations) without receiving U.S.-source salary. The B-2 covers tourism, medical treatment, and family visits. ESTA (Visa Waiver Program) allows stays of up to 90 days without a visa for citizens of about 40 eligible countries, but does not permit change of status inside the U.S. or extensions. If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, anticipate prolonged future visits, or want to preserve the option to adjust status, the B Visa is preferable to ESTA.
Can I change from B-2 status to another visa type while inside the U.S.?+
In some cases yes, depending on the category you wish to change to. However, if you entered with a pre-established intention to change status, that may be considered visa fraud. Attorney Jesus Reyes evaluates each situation individually.
Your situation has a solution.
Schedule a consultation of up to 30 minutes with Attorney Jesus Reyes and learn your legal options. $200.
Schedule Consultation — $200Or call: (888) 644-3683