VizaB1/B2 Visa Overview
The B1/B2 is the standard US non-immigrant visa for temporary visitors. The B1 covers business activities (meetings, conferences, negotiations), while B2 covers tourism, vacation, visiting family, and medical treatment. They are typically issued together on one visa foil.
- Duration: Typically issued for 10 years (multiple entry)
- Maximum stay: Usually 6 months per entry, at CBP officer's discretion
- No work authorization: You cannot work or study long-term on this visa
- Fees: $185 MRV fee (non-refundable even if refused)
ESTA vs B1/B2 Visa
Citizens of the 41 Visa Waiver Program countries (including UK, EU, Australia, Japan, South Korea) can visit the US for up to 90 days using ESTA — no visa interview required. The B1/B2 visa is only needed if your country is not in the VWP, or if you need to stay longer or have been refused ESTA.
Required Documents
Prepare these documents before your interview:
The Visa Interview
The consular interview is the core of the US visa process. It is typically very short — 2-5 minutes. The officer's job is to assess whether you are an immigrant risk: will you return home after your visit? Key principle: Under Section 214(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, every B visa applicant is presumed to be an intending immigrant until they prove otherwise. Your documents and answers must demonstrate strong ties to your home country.
Common Interview Questions
Prepare clear, concise, honest answers to these:
Strong Ties to Home Country
This is the most critical factor in approval. You must demonstrate reasons why you will return home. Weak ties are the #1 reason for B1/B2 refusals. Strong ties include:
- •Stable, long-term employment with a reputable employer
- •Property ownership (land, house, business)
- •Spouse and/or children remaining at home
- •Elderly parents who depend on you
- •Business ownership in your home country
- •Acceptance to continue an education program at home
- •Previous US and international travel with proper departure on time
After Your Interview
If approved, your passport will be returned with the visa sticker, typically within 3-5 business days. Some cases require additional administrative processing (AP) which can take several weeks — this is normal and not necessarily negative. If refused under 214(b), you can reapply with a stronger application. There is no formal appeals process for immigrant intent refusals.