What is a B-1 Visa?

A B-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa issued by the United States to foreign nationals who want to enter the country temporarily for business purposes. Those entering the U.S. on a B-1 visa are typically attending conferences, meetings or contract negotiations. If you wish to apply for a B-1 visa, you must be able to demonstrate that your trip to the U.S. is only for a short time and you plan to return to your home country immediately after completing your business-related activity.

Key Takeaways

• A B-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa issued by the United States to foreign nationals who want to enter the country temporarily for business purposes. 
• The maximum amount of time you can stay in the U.S. on a B-1 visa is 6 months, although certain extensions may apply in special cases.
• B-1 visas are often combined with B-2 tourist visas as a “B-1/B-2 visa.”

Reasons for Travel Under a B-1 Visa

The B-1 visitor visa allows foreign nationals to engage in legitimate business activities within the United States while maintaining their primary employment and residence abroad. Below are the primary reasons for travel permitted under a B-1 visa:

1. Attending Business Meetings: Business professionals can enter the U.S. to participate in meetings, conferences, conventions, or seminars with business associates in the country.
2. Negotiating Contracts: Foreign nationals may travel to the U.S. to negotiate business deals, contracts, or agreements. While in the U.S., they can meet with potential partners, clients, or suppliers to discuss terms, but all actual work and primary compensation must remain tied to their foreign employer.
3. Business Consultations: Business consultations involve meeting with U.S.-based business partners, clients, or associates to provide expertise, guidance, or information exchange. These consultations must be advisory in nature, not constituting actual productive work.
4. Settling an Estate: Foreign executors, administrators, or heirs may enter the U.S. to settle the estate of a deceased person. The traveler must have a legitimate connection to the estate and must not be using the estate matter for other purposes. 

Extending Your Stay on a B-1 Visa

While a B-1 visa is valid for a stay in the U.S. of up to six months, it may be possible to extend your visa in certain circumstances. B-1 visa holders can apply for an additional six months, bringing their entire stay in the U.S. to one year. To extend your B-1 status, you must file Form I-539 (Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status) with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) at least 45 days before the authorized stay expires. If possible, filing earlier is advisable due to long processing times.

Bottom Line

The B-1 business offers a unique opportunity to foreign nationals who want to open doors for international business in the U.S. Need help with your B-1 visa application or extension? Our legal team will help you navigate complex requirements with confidence. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.