B-1, Visitors for Business:

One who has no intention of abandoning foreign residency and is a coming to the U.S. temporarily for business purposes may be eligible for a B1 visitor visa. For the most part, a visitor cannot be gainfully employed but can engage in commercial transactions such as negotiating contracts, consulting with clients or business associates. Other examples include those participating in educational, professional, scientific, religious, business conventions or litigating.

This category is available, subject to very specific requirements, to personal and/or domestic attendants of certain nonimmigrants and U.S. citizens who hold international jobs. These attendants must obtain separate work authorization documents. Foreign medical students may also be granted the B-1 visa and status for unpaid rotations. It is appropriate on a limited basis for missionaries as well as certain ministers exchanging pulpits.

In addition to the requirements common to all applying for the visitor visa to the United States, B-1 visa applicants must show that business activities primarily benefit a non-U.S. based company.

Initial admission: 1 year maximum with 6-month extension.

B-2, Visitors for Pleasure:

One who has no intention of abandoning foreign residency and is coming to the U.S. temporarily for pleasure/vacation may be eligible for a B2 visitor visa. These include individuals coming as tourists, for social visits to friends/relatives, health purposes, participants of social organizations, participation in amateur sports, music and related events etc.  Employment is not permitted.

In addition to the requirements common to all applying for the visitor visa to the United States, B-2 visa applicants must show the U.S. visit is purely temporary and for activities permitted under the B-2. If for medical treatment, documentation of the need for treatment in the United States and the financial ability to pay for the treatment.

Initial admission: 1 year maximum with 6-month extension. Most of the time, B-2s are automatically admitted for 6 months.

Change of status to other nonimmigrant categories are allowed, including E-2, H-1B, H-4, F-1, L-1, and other visa categories, however, there is generally a 60-day period in between the date of admission and the application period which is highly recommended.