The B-1 Visa

A visa option for business trips

What is the B-1?

Sometimes a video call doesn’t cut it. The B-1 is a visitor visa to travel to the U.S. for business trips for up to six months. The B-1 is a great option if you need to travel to the U.S. to participate in an accelerator program, fundraise, open a new office, or attend a conference or training. There are very few restrictions to the B-1 except that you can’t work or earn a salary from a company based in the U.S.

Simple Application Process

You can apply for the B-1 online and schedule a consulate interview. Wait times for B-1 interviews vary from country to country, so be sure to check wait times for your local consulate early!

Change of Status

If you are in the U.S. with B-1 status, you can apply for a different status without leaving the country. For instance, if you are in the U.S. with valid B-1 status, you can apply for the O-1 visa without leaving the U.S.

Extension Available

The initial stay of the B-1 visa is six months. If you need more time in the U.S., you can apply for an extension for an additional six months. Plan early!

The B-1 vs. ESTA

The Visa Waiver Program and ESTA takes far less planning than applying for a B-1 visa, but is it the right fit for you?

Learn about ESTA

How to apply for the B-1 visa

Did you know that you can apply for a B-1 on your own online? Follow the simple steps below to start your B-1 application.

Step 1

Complete Form DS-160

Access the DS-160 form at the Consular Electronic Application Center.

Step 2

Schedule Visa Interview

Schedule an interview at the Embassy or Consulate where you are applying. Wait times for an interview vary. Check early!

Step 3

Prepare Documentation

There is a list of common documents you'll need to bring with you to support your interview. Check out our B-1 documents checklist.

Step 4

Attend Your Interview

This interview with a consular officer helps the U.S. government verify that your trip meets the B-1 visa requirements. Learn how to prepare for the B-1 interview.

Step 5

Travel!

If your visa is approved, your passport will be mailed back to you, along with the new B-1 visa stamp, within a couple of days. You'll be ready to travel!

Customer Stories

"Preparing the H-1B petition is remarkably easy with Legalpad. The Legalpad team provides a wealth of knowledge about immigration in the workplace and simplifies a complex process for our legal and HR teams using a tech-driven approach." Avalara Legal Team

"Legalpad is the only immigration service that 'gets it.' I've personally had two visa petitions approved with Legalpad which have allowed me to create tremendous value in the US. I simply wouldn't trust anyone else to handle my file." Chris Pitchford
Ally