B-2 Visa


Activities and Uses for the B-2 Visa

• Tourist on a pleasure trip to the U.S.

• Visiting friends and relatives in the U.S.

• Foreign nationals entering the country to marry a U.S. citizen or green cardholder.

• Amateur athletes, musicians, or other performers traveling to compete or perform in their field.

• Conventions for social organizations (not a business).

• Foreign nationals who are coming into the U.S. to receive medical treatment.


What is a B-2 Visa?

The B-2 visa is a temporary, non-immigrant U.S. visa that permits the holder to enter the United States for a short time for travel, recreation, or family purposes.

B-2 Visa Requirements

In our experience, the main factor in getting a B2 visa approved is showing that the applicant has every intention of returning to their home country at the end of their permitted stay.

You must fulfill or prove all the requirements below in order to qualify for a B2 visa.

• Prove your visit will be temporary.

• Prove your intention to depart the U.S. at end of your stay (or any extension).

• Hold a valid foreign passport.

• Maintain a residence abroad where you intend to return.

• You are able to support yourself financially while in the country.

Most Common B-2 Forms and Their Associated Cost

  • Form DS-160, Nonimmigrant Visa Application: This form is required for all B-2 visa applicants. The fee for Form DS-160 is $185.
  • Biometric Services Fee: This fee is required for all B-2 visa applicants who are 14 years of age or older. The fee for the biometric services is $85.
The total cost for the B-2 visa is typically around $450, which includes the filing fees for Form I-134, Form DS-160 and the biometric services fee. Please note that these are just the common forms and costs for the B-2 visa. The specific forms and costs may vary depending on the individual circumstances of the applicant. It is important to consult with an immigration attorney to determine the specific requirements for your case.

B-2 Visa Processing Time and Length of Stay

B-2 visas are valid for up to six months and may be renewed once for up to an additional six months. After submitting the DS-160 form, it generally takes USCIS between 60–90 days to process the B-2 visa application.

MOST FREQUENTLY USED B-2 VISAS FORMS

Form DS-160

Form I-134

Biometric Service

  • Cost $185
  • Fees in USD
  • Filed on Behalf of Employer 
  • Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker
  • Cost $0
  • Fees in USD
  • Filed by the Applicant
  • Declaration of Financial Support
  • Cost $85
  • Fees in USD
  • Filed by the Applicant Ages 14-80

B2 Visa FAQs

“How do I prove my strong ties to my home country if I am a homemaker? I have been denied of the B-2 visa. I need to accompany my minor children migrating to the US.”

In our experience, the main factor in getting a B2 visa approved is being able to show successfully that the applicant has every intention of returning to their home country at the end of their permitted stay by fulfilling all the requirements below:

  • Prove your visit will be temporary
  • Prove your intention to depart the U.S. at end of your stay (or any extension)
  • Hold a valid foreign passport
  • Maintain a residence abroad to which you intend to return
  • You are able to support yourself financially while in the country
“What is the limit for duration of stay allowed for business meetings under a B2 visa?”

B-2 Visa News

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