Skip to content
2 ways to enter

United States visas

United States business visa

The B-1 visa covers temporary business visits. A combined B-1/B-2 visa covers business and pleasure.

Ways to get a United States business visa

  1. B-1 or combined B-1/B-2 visa

    Visa needed

    Temporary business visitors. The B-1 class also lists domestic employees, academics, researchers and students.

    Fee
    US$185 application fee; an issuance fee and a visitor visa bond may also apply.
    1. Show your trip purpose, limited stay and ties outside the United States.
    2. Pay the application fee at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
    3. Attend a consular interview.

  2. ESTA for a visa-waived business visit

    eTA needed

    Eligible nationals of the 42 Visa Waiver Program countries with a biometric passport who meet the programme rules.

    Stay
    Up to 90 days, including qualifying side trips to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda or Caribbean islands.
    Valid for
    Up to two years or until passport expiry, whichever comes first.
    Entries
    Multiple entries
    Fee
    US$40.62 if approved. Land entry also requires a US$30 Form I-94.
    Processing
    Apply at least 72 hours before departure.
    1. Check your passport and travel-history eligibility.
    2. Obtain ESTA before travel and pay the applicable fees.
    3. Obtain Form I-94 in advance or at the border if entering by land.

Who needs it

Business visitors who do not qualify for a suitable visa exemption need a visa.

Who doesn't

Eligible travellers can use the Visa Waiver Program for business. Separate neighbouring-jurisdiction exemptions may also apply.

How to apply

  1. Show your business purpose, planned stay and ties outside the United States.
  2. Pay the application fee at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
  3. Attend a consular interview.

What to bring

  • Foreign passport
  • Evidence of your business purpose, limited stay and ties outside the United States

Good to know

  • Follow the admission status and stay recorded by the border officer.
  • B-1/B-2 bond requirements also apply to business visitors from the listed bond countries.
  • A business visitor visa is a separate category from the work visas listed below.

Questions

Do I need a business visa for the United States?

Business visitors who do not qualify for a suitable visa exemption need a visa. Eligible travellers can use the Visa Waiver Program for business. Separate neighbouring-jurisdiction exemptions may also apply.

What are the ways to get a business visa for the United States?

There are 2 options: B-1 or combined B-1/B-2 visa (a visa from an embassy); ESTA for a visa-waived business visit (an online travel permit).

Can I apply online for the United States?

Yes: ESTA for a visa-waived business visit. Eligible nationals of the 42 Visa Waiver Program countries with a biometric passport who meet the programme rules.

How much does a the United States business visa cost?

US$185 application fee. A nationality-based issuance fee may also apply.

What documents do I need for a the United States business visa?

Foreign passport; Evidence of your business purpose, limited stay and ties outside the United States.

How do I apply for a the United States business visa?

1. 1. Show your business purpose, planned stay and ties outside the United States. 2. 2. Pay the application fee at a U.S. embassy or consulate. 3. 3. Attend a consular interview.

What rules do I have to follow on a the United States business visa?

Follow the admission status and stay recorded by the border officer.

Does my passport change whether I need a business visa for the United States?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the United States visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a business visa for the United States be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest the United States business visa rules?

On the United States's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Reviewed by