US Tourist Visa (B1/B2 Visa)

The US tourist visa, also known as the B1/B2 visa, is a document that allows you to enter the United States and stay for a short period of time. This type of US visa is considered non-immigrant, meaning that individuals are not allowed to work or study during their stay and cannot remain in the United States beyond the authorized period.

Duration of Stay

The maximum duration of stay for a US tourist visa is typically less than 6 months and may be shorter than the visa’s validity period. This is entirely at the discretion of the consular officer and is determined upon your initial entry into the United States.

Single-Entry and Multiple-Entry Visas

It is important to note that each type of US tourist visa can be further categorized into two types based on the number of permitted entries into the United States: single-entry tourist visas and multiple-entry tourist visas.

• Multiple-entry tourist visas: These visas have a longer validity period, sometimes up to ten years. However, they may require specific documentation and may be more difficult to obtain.

• Single-entry tourist visas: These visas have a shorter validity period (maximum of six months) and the holder can only enter the United States once.

Types of US Tourist Visas

There are two main types of US tourist visas that allow individuals to easily enter the United States for a short-term stay. The purpose of your travel to the US determines the type of visa you need:

• B1 Tourist Visa: For business travel

• B2 Tourist Visa: For leisure and tourism travel

B1 Tourist Visa

The B1 tourist visa is suitable for individuals who are entering the United States for temporary business purposes. Examples of activities that may qualify for a B1 visa include:

• Conducting business activities and negotiations

• Consulting with business associates

• Attending conferences, seminars, and trade shows

• Engaging in research and training related to business activities

B2 Tourist Visa

The B2 tourist visa, often referred to as the US visitor visa for parents, is specifically designed for individuals who are entering the United States temporarily for purposes such as:

• Visiting relatives and friends residing in the US

• Undergoing medical examinations and seeking medical treatment in the US

• Leisure travel and sightseeing

• Participating in humanitarian programs

Eligibility for a US Tourist Visa

One of the most important requirements for obtaining a US tourist visa is to demonstrate that you do not intend to reside permanently in the United States and will return to your home country upon completion of your authorized stay. To prove this, you will need to clearly establish:

• Strong ties to your home country, such as employment, family, or property ownership

• Sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay in the US

• A clear travel itinerary and purpose for visiting the US

Documents Required for a US Tourist Visa

• Valid passport

• Translated copies of identity documents

• Confirmation of completed US tourist visa application form

• One recent passport-sized photograph

• Printouts of bank statements and salary slips if employed or retirement benefits

• A detailed travel itinerary and schedule of activities

• Proof of property ownership or lease agreements

• Employment verification documents

• Letter of enrollment if a student

• Form DS-5535 (only required in specific cases)

• Old passports and travel documents

Contact Afshar Group for Assistance

For more information and guidance on obtaining a US tourist visa, contact Afshar Group. Our consultants are here to assist you through the process and help you increase your chances of visa approval.