The USA B1/B2 Visitors Visa is one of the most common U.S. visas issued to international travelers. If you want to travel to the United States for tourism, family visits, medical treatment, or short-term business purposes, this visa is usually the right option. This guide explains what the visa is, who can apply, how to apply, and what rules you must follow.
What is USA B1/B2 visitors visa?
The USA B1/B2 visitors visa is a non-immigrant visa. It is given to people who want to visit the U.S. temporarily and do not intend to live or work there permanently.
B1 Visa: For short-term business activities. Examples include meetings, attending a conference, negotiating contracts, or consulting with business partners.
B2 Visa: For tourism and leisure. Examples include sightseeing, visiting friends or family, receiving medical treatment, or attending non-paid cultural events.
Most applicants receive a combined B1/B2 visa, which allows both business and tourism during the same trip.
Important: This USA visa does not allow you to work, study for a degree, or stay long-term in the U.S.
Who needs USA B1/B2 visitors visa?
Not everyone needs this visa. Citizens of countries in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) can travel to the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa, but they must apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). If your country is not in the VWP, you must apply for a USA B1/B2 Visitors Visa before traveling.
USA B1/B2 visitors visa eligibility requirements
To qualify for a USA B1/B2 visitors visa, you must show:
Purpose of visit: Your trip must be for business or tourism only.
Temporary stay: You must plan to stay in the U.S. for a limited time.
Financial proof: You must prove you can pay for your travel and living expenses.
Visa bonds: For citizens of some countries, the U.S. requires a refundable bond ($5,000–$15,000) to discourage overstays.
Ties to home country: You must show reasons to return home, such as a job, property, or family.
Good immigration history: You should not have overstayed a previous U.S. visa or broken immigration rules.
U.S. law assumes that every applicant wants to immigrate permanently. At your interview, you must convince the officer that you plan to return home.
USA B1/B2 visitors visa validity and length of stay
Visa validity: Depends on your nationality. For some, it may be valid for a few months; for others, up to 10 years with multiple entries.
Length of stay: When you arrive in the U.S., the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer decides how long you can stay. Usually, it is up to 6 months.
Extensions: If you need more time, you can apply for an extension using Form I-539 before your current stay ends. Approval is not guaranteed.
How to apply for USA B1/B2 visitors visa in 5 steps
Pay the fee.
Schedule an appointment at your nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. In some cases, children under 14 and adults over 80 may be exempt.
Bring your passport, DS-160 confirmation, fee receipt, photo, proof of finances, evidence of ties to your home country, and travel details or invitation letters.
A consular officer will ask about your trip and background. If approved, your passport will be kept for visa stamping and later returned.
What is the new rule for B1 B2 visa?
A new rule introduced in 2025 requires some applicants from certain countries to pay a refundable visa bond. The bond amount is usually between $5,000 and $15,000. These visas may also come with stricter conditions such as shorter validity, single entry, or a maximum stay of 30 days. If you follow the rules and leave on time, the bond is refunded. This rule only applies to specific countries chosen because of high visa overstay rates.
How much money do you need to show for a B1 B2 visa?
There is no fixed minimum balance required. However, you must show that you can cover your flights, accommodation, food, travel, and other expenses during your stay. In most cases, applicants prepare to show around $5,000 to $10,000 in bank statements or other proof of funds. What matters most is that your financial proof looks stable and realistic for the length of your planned trip.
Is a U.S. B1 B2 visa easy to get?
The B1/B2 visa is not guaranteed and can be challenging for some applicants. Approval depends on:
Showing strong ties to your home country (such as a job, property, or family).
Having enough financial proof to cover your stay.
Giving clear, honest answers about the purpose of your visit.
Having a clean travel and immigration history.
If you prepare well and meet the requirements, the visa can be obtained. But if your ties, finances, or travel plans are unclear, approval may be difficult.
