B-1 VISA

B-1 Visa is for aliens who enter the United States for business. After 9.11 terrorist attack, U.S. has tightened the policy regarding the issuance of B-1 Visa. In practice, B-1 will be granted only a period of entry necessary to conduct the visitor's business.

Procedures

A B-1 visa can be applied to the U.S. consulate or embassy rather than to the INS. An applicant may find it less time consuming to apply to a U.S. consulate or embassy where he or she maintains the permanent residence. As an alternative, the applicant may also use one of the following options:

Authorized travel agencies: Travel agencies approved by the U.S. Embassy in the region or nation may submit visa applications on behalf of the applicant.
The VIP Business Program: enterprise can register with the VIP Business Program if it repeatedly sends employees to the U.S. The requirement of a visa may be waived, if an applicant submits the application by an approved business.
Forms and Documents

To apply for a B-1 Visa, the following forms and documents should be submitted:

A visa application Form OF-156. Separate applications for each person are required.
A passport, valid for travel to the United States for at least six months longer than the intended visit period.
Two recent photographs 1 & 1/2 inches square (37mm x 37mm) of each applicant, with the entire face visible. The picture should be taken before a light background and without head covering.
Supporting documents:

Evidence showing the purpose of the trip. The applicant may show a letter sent by the company explaining the purpose and length of the trip.
Specific and convincing plans explaining why and how the applicant wishes to visit the U.S. A copy of a tour itinerary is usually acceptable.
Information about the company, such as annual report, brochure or catalog.
Demonstration of non-immigrant intent. A good example of this is to show a tie with the applicant's home country, or a round trip air ticket.
A letter which states that either the company intends to pay for all cost, or that the applicant has other funds for this trip.

Visa Waiver Program

Nationals of some countries do not need to obtain B visas for business or tourist visits to the U.S. for the period of the intended business or tourism. These countries include: Australia, Australia, Belgium, Brunei, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Monaco, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. Canadian citizens are also not required to have a visa to enter U.S under different rules. Please contact the U.S. embassy or consular office in your residence country to ensure that the information is up-to-date.