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Business Visitors (B-1 Visas)
The B-1, or visitor for business, visa is a
nonimmigrant classification that is available to individuals coming to the
United States for a variety of reasons: to attend a business meeting or a
professional conference, to investigate investment opportunities, to explore the
feasibility of U.S. operations, to perform liaison functions and to work on a
temporary assignment from a foreign company (short-term transfer) while
continuing to be employed by and compensated by the company outside the United
States.
This status does not allow employment in the United States.
However, one of the advantages is of the B-1 visa is that it is generally
obtainable within a short period of time by application to the U.S. Consulate
abroad with adequate supporting documentation. Period of authorized stay in the
United States is normally limited to six months or less at a time. (Nationals of
some countries may enter without a visa under the visa waiver pilot program for
up to 90 days; however, obtaining a B-1 visa is generally preferred because of
increased options available if there are problems with the USCIS at the port of
entry or if extensions are required.)
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