What is a B-1/B-2 travel visa used for?
The State Department says visitor visas are for temporary business travel (B-1), tourism (B-2), or a combination of both purposes.
Source: U.S. Department of State: Visitor VisaGuidance only
Visitor visa service
B-1/B-2 Travel Visa
For short-term visitor travel, tourism, and other temporary trips
A B-1/B-2 visitor visa is generally used for temporary business travel, tourism, family visits, or a combination of these purposes.
A visitor visa is applied for in Form DS-160, which is completed and submitted online with the Department of State at ceac.state.gov — there is no paper version, and no tool can prepare it for you. After submitting the DS-160 you pay the visa fee, book an interview at a US embassy or consulate, and bring evidence of the purpose of your trip and your ties abroad. This page explains that process; it does not prepare an application. If your country is in the Visa Waiver Program, you may not need a visa at all for visits of 90 days or less.
Forms explained
1 form explained on this page
What to expect
Understand the requirements, the evidence, and where your application is actually filed
No account needed
This page is reference only — it asks you for nothing and stores nothing
Forms for this service
The form used, and where it is filed
Haven does not prepare this application — the Department of State only accepts it online. This list is here so you know what to expect.
DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application — completed and submitted online at ceac.state.gov. Print the confirmation page with the barcode and bring it to your interview.
FAQ
Common questions about B-1/B-2 Travel Visa
Answers below are summarized from official USCIS or U.S. Department of State guidance linked with each item.
Can I work in the United States on a B-1/B-2 visa?
No. The State Department says a person on a visitor visa is not permitted to accept employment or work in the United States.
Source: U.S. Department of State: Visitor Visa