The American Business Visitor (B1) Visa is a temporary non-immigrant visa issued for specific categories of business in America, mainly for business activities in which information is shared amongst interested parties.

The purpose of the B1 Visa is to allow the visa holder to attend business meetings, court hearing and engage in professional or commercial undertakings as long as they do not result in financial compensation (although, compensation for such activities can be paid for and earned from abroad).

To be eligible for a B1 Visa you must:

• Hold a valid passport;
• Intend to return to your country of abode once the visa expires;
• Be travelling to America for business activities not of a commercial nature;
• Have the necessary financial capacity to support yourself while visiting America; and
• Be of good character.

The B1 Visa allows travel to America for the following activities:

• Consult with business associates;
• Attend a scientific, educational, professional or business convention, or a conference on specific dates;
• Settle an estate;
• Negotiate a contract; and
• Participate in short-term training.

B1 Visas are valid for an initial entry of up to 6 months, and this period may be extended for an additional 6 months if the visa holder can give good reason for needing the extension. An extension will only be granted for a B1 Visa however, if the visa holder can provide documentation proving they can support themselves financially for the duration of the extension.

Get started by filling in the US Immigration Questionnaire