What Is The B-1 Visa?

Last Updated on March 15, 2024

What Is The B-1 Visa?

The B-1 visa for Business Visitors allows individuals to take short trips to the U.S. to conduct business matters such as contract negotiations, in-person consulting and attending conferences.

However, visitors are not permitted to accept employment or work in the U.S. Another important note: select countries do not require a visa for business travel.

Visa Requirements

Individuals are eligible to enter the U.S. on a B-1 visa if they are participating in some of the following business activities:

  • Contract negotiation
  • Short-term training
  • Consulting with business associates

For additional business activities, please speak with your immigration attorney.

How Long Does A B-1 Visa Last?

Individuals on a B-1 visa have an initial period of stay of one to six months. The total stay can be up to one year. This visa can be valid for up to 10 years, depending on the country of citizenship.

If the temporary nature of the assignment changes, please speak with your immigration attorney.

B-1 Visa Application and Filing Fees

  • Application filing fee: $160

What Is A B-2 Visa?

The B-2 visa is for tourist visitors and allows them to travel to the U.S. for personal activities.


If the foreign national is outside the U.S., they likely will need to apply for a visa to enter the U.S. in the specific visa category before entering the U.S. in the specific status.

For more information on the B-1 visa, download our guide, an Introduction to the B Visa.


Envoy is pleased to provide you this information, which was prepared in collaboration with Sara Herbek who is the Managing Partner at Global Immigration Associates, P.C. (www.giafirm.com), Envoy’s affiliated law firm. 

Content in this publication is not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an Envoy-affiliated attorney or another qualified professional.