The US is an ethnically diverse country and if you ever visit the country you will meet people from almost every corner of the world. It is a popular destination and people look forward to visit the country even if means visiting it for a short period of time.
Thanks to its highly developed economy not only skilled professionals aspire to move to it but a large number of business s professionals as well wish to do the same. To cater to the growing demand of short term business visitors, the USIC has introduced US B1 Visa, especially for Business Visitors.
It is a non-immigrant in nature; you are eligible to apply if you intend to participate in a commercial or professional business activity in the country which includes:
- Travel on specific dates for professional, scientific, convention or a business conference.
- Consult with associates (business)
- Settle an estate.
- Negotiate a contract.
- To participate in a training programme.
The candidate should have a clear intention of returning to his native country before the visa expires. He must prove the binding ties with his native country which will ensure his timely return from the US. At the time of submitting the application, he must also show enough proof of financial capability as to cover his US trip.
US B1 Visa for Business Visitors Eligibility Criteria
- The purpose of your visit is legitimate in nature and is associated with business activity.
- You intend to stay in the country for a limited period of time.
- You are financially strong to cover your entire trip.
- You have a permanent residence outside US and have no intention to abandon it.
- You are legally admissible in the country.
The category does not have an annual quota. However, you are advised to apply for the visa at the earliest, preferably 60 days in advance from the expected date of travel as the visa application processing may take longer than expected, due to delay in security clearance or other formalities.
Prospective immigrants should also note that there is no provision for dependents under the category. Therefore, accompanying dependents will have to submit a separate petition.
Under the category, visa holders are restricted to perform following activities:
- Run an independent business.
- Be employed by an American employer.
- Paid by a US organization.
- Participate as a professional in a sports or entertainment commercial activity.
Initially, the visa is issued for six months that can be further extended for six more months provided the applicant has solid reasons to stay back in the country.
To start with, applicants are required to complete DS-160 online form and once the form is successfully submitted, they are required to take a printout of 10 digit bar code which is provided once the application is submitted and is required for taking a date for visa interview.
In order to process the visa application, each applicant is required to submit non-refundable visa application fee.
