Discover the USA
The United States, a land of diverse landscapes from New York’s skyscrapers to California’s beaches, offers endless opportunities for business and tourism. In 2025, the B1 visa is for temporary business visitors, while the B2 visa is for tourism, medical treatment, or visiting family. Most applicants receive a combined B1/B2 visa, allowing flexibility for both purposes.
Required Documents
Valid Passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay with 1 blank page.
DS-160 Confirmation
Completed online at ceac.state.gov with barcode confirmation page.
Passport Photo
One recent photo, 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm), white background, digital upload for DS-160.
Travel Itinerary
Proof of return or onward ticket (not mandatory but recommended).
Accommodation Proof
Hotel booking, invitation letter, or host’s address and ID (recommended).
Travel Insurance
Optional but advised; covers medical emergencies and trip issues.
Proof of Funds
Bank statements or sponsor letter showing sufficient funds (e.g., $50-$100/day).
Visa Fee Receipt
Non-refundable $185 USD Machine-Readable Visa (MRV) fee, paid before interview.
How to Apply
Application Steps
Complete DS-160
Pay Visa Fee
Schedule Interview
Gather Documents
Attend Interview
Processing
Enter the USA
Complete DS-160
Pay Visa Fee
Schedule Interview
Gather Documents
Attend Interview
Processing
Enter the USA
1. Complete DS-160
Fill out the online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (DS-160) at ceac.state.gov and print the confirmation page.
2. Pay Visa Fee
Pay the $185 USD MRV fee online or at designated banks; keep the receipt.
3. Schedule Interview
Book an appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate via usvisa-info.com; interview waivers may apply.
4. Gather Documents
Prepare passport, DS-160 confirmation, photo, fee receipt, and supporting documents.
5. Attend Interview
Visit the U.S. Embassy/Consulate for an interview (if required) with all documents.
6. Processing
Wait 3-6 weeks for visa issuance; expedited options may be available for emergencies.
7. Enter the USA
Present passport with B1/B2 visa at the border; CBP officers determine stay duration (up to 6 months).
Visa Fees
- B1/B2 Visa (single or multiple-entry, up to 10 years): $185 USD (MRV fee)
- Interview Waiver Processing (if eligible): No additional fee beyond $185 USD
- Expedited Appointment (emergency cases): Additional fee may apply, varies by embassy
- Visa Waiver Program (VWP) ESTA (if eligible, 90 days): $21 USD (not B1/B2)
*Fees subject to change. Confirm details at travel.state.gov.
FAQ
What’s the difference between B1 and B2 visas?
B1 is for business (e.g., meetings, conferences); B2 is for tourism, medical visits, or family. B1/B2 combines both.
How long can I stay with a B1/B2 visa?
Up to 6 months per entry, decided by CBP at the border; typically 10-year validity.
Can I work on a B1/B2 visa?
No, employment is prohibited; B1 allows business activities like negotiations, not paid work.
What’s the USA’s passport rank in 2025?
Ranked 7th globally, with visa-free access to 187 destinations (Henley Passport Index).
Who qualifies for an interview waiver?
Renewals within 48 months of expiry or applicants under 14/over 79 may qualify, subject to embassy rules.
References
- U.S. Department of State - Bureau of Consular Affairs: travel.state.gov
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP): cbp.gov
- U.S. Visa Appointment Service: usvisa-info.com