What is the B2 Tourist Visitor Visa?
The B2 Tourist Visitor Visa is a popular nonimmigrant visa for individuals visiting the U.S. for tourism or medical treatment unavailable in their home country. Activities permitted under the B2 Visa include:
- Touring the U.S.
- Visiting friends or family
- Attending cultural events
- Receiving medical treatment
Eligibility Requirements for the B2 Visa
To qualify for the B2 Visa, applicants must:
- Visit the U.S. for tourism or medical purposes
- Stay in the U.S. for a limited period
- Have sufficient funds to cover their expenses
- Have strong ties to their home country
- Intend to return to their home country after the visa expires
Required Documents for the B2 Visa Application
Applicants must include the following documents in their B2 Visa application:
- A valid passport
- DS-160 confirmation page
- Visa fee receipt
- Passport-size photograph
- A letter explaining the purpose of the visit
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Evidence of ties to the home country
- Criminal record proof
- Visa interview appointment confirmation
Additional Documents for Medical Treatment
If seeking medical treatment, applicants must also provide:
- A letter from a doctor detailing the medical condition and recommended treatment
- Proof that the treatment is not available in the home country
- An assessment of treatment costs
- Financial proof to cover the treatment costs
Application Process for the B2 Tourist Visitor Visa
- Complete Form DS-160: Submit the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application and keep the confirmation page.
- Pay the Visa Fee: The fee is $160. Keep the receipt.
- Schedule an Interview: Book an appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
- Prepare Documentation: Gather all required documents.
- Attend the Interview: Answer questions to verify your eligibility for the visa.
Cost and Processing Time
The application fee for the B2 Visa is $160. Processing times vary depending on the U.S. Embassy or Consulate's workload, but most applicants receive a decision within several weeks.
Visa Validity and Extension
The B2 Visa is typically valid for up to six months. It allows multiple entries into the U.S. If you need to stay longer, you can apply for an extension by filing Form I-539 before your current visa expires.
Visa Waiver Program
Citizens of certain countries can travel to the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program. Eligible travelers must obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before their trip.
How Sari Law Firm Can Help
At Sari Law Firm, our immigration lawyers have extensive knowledge of the U.S. visa system. We can guide you through the application process, ensuring all forms and documents are correctly submitted. We also provide support for extending your B2 Visa if needed.
For more information on our immigration services, contact us today.