Everybody
knows the U.S. is the best place to
engage in business. And the best way to
temporarily visit the U.S. to deal with
your business venture is under B-1
status. This merit-based visa allows
access to a variety of business and
economic ventures in the U.S.
Individuals eligible for this visa range
from board members and athletes to
musicians, entertainers and servants of
non-immigrants.
Steps
You may apply for a B-1 visa at the
American Embassy or Consulate in your
region or nation. We recommend you do
not apply at a U.S. Consular Office
outside of your permanent residence,
since that process is more difficult.
You can apply at the Consular Office of
the Embassy or Consulate General nearest
your residence, or use one of the
following options:
- Authorized travel agencies:
Travel agencies approved by the U.S.
Embassy in your region or nation may
submit visa applications for you.
- The VIP Business Program: Your
enterprise can register with the VIP
Business Program if it repeatedly
sends employees to the U.S. Your
appearance may be waived, if your
application was submitted by an
approved business.
- By drop box: Individuals who
travel extensively, or have recently
received a validated visa, may use
the drop box in the embassy or
consulate. Applications at drop
boxes should be completed before
traveling.
You may still need to apply in person.
Further, there may be delays in this
process due to cross-checking
information at the Washington, D.C.
database.
Documents
To apply for a B-1 Visa, you must
provide the following documents:
- A filled-in visa application
Form OF-156. Separate applications
for each person are required.
- A passport, valid for travel to
the United States for at least six
months longer than your intended
visit.
- Two recent photographs 1 & 1/2
inches square (37mm x 37mm) of each
applicant, with the entire face
visible. The picture should be taken
before a light background and
without head covering.
You may also be asked
to provide the following documents:
- Evidence backing up the purpose
of your trip. You may show a letter
sent by the company explaining the
purpose and length of the trip.
- Specific and realistic plans
describing why you wish to visit the
U.S. A copy of a tour itinerary is
usually acceptable.
- Information about the company,
like a company brochure or catalog.
- Demonstration of non-immigrant
intent. A good example of this is
round-trip air tickets.
- A letter which states that
either the firm intends to pay for
all cost, or that you have other
funds for this trip.
