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B2 Visa for Tourists: Foreign nationals who wish to visit the United States for
leisure or tourism are normally eligible to receive a B2 Tourist Visas. B2
Tourist Visas are "visitor visas" required for citizens of countries that are
not included in the Visa Waiver Program. However, even citizens of countries
included in the Visa Waiver Program are required to obtain a B-2 visa if they
plan to stay in the United States for longer than 90 days, change status to
other nonimmigrant visa, or adjust status to permanent resident (Green Card)
after entering the country.
B2 Visa for Medical Treatment: B2 Visas are also issued to individuals who are
coming to the United States to undergo medical treatment. The application
process is similar to that of a Tourist Visa, but there are additional documents
that must be submitted to establish that the applicant qualifies for the visa.
The list of required documents and the application process is described in the
B2 Tourist Visa Application Guide.
Tourist Visa Length of Stay: Persons admitted to the United States on a B2
Tourist Visa are usually issued a 6-month stay. The maximum length of stay for
visitor visa holders is 6 months. The immigration officer at the port of entry
determines how long each visitor is allowed to stay in the country. Most
visitors have their I-94 cards stamped with a 6-month stay, however the
immigration officer has the right to issue a shorter stay on a case by case
basis. Upon entry into the United States, the foreign visitor has the right to
request an extension of stay.
US Visitor Visa Change of Status: Individuals who enter the United States on a
B2 Tourist Visa are normally eligible to change status to permanent resident
(Green Card holder) if they qualify, or to other nonimmigrant status, such as
temporary workers (H1B, H2B, E1, E2, E3, etc.), students under the F1
Student Visa, or even to permanent United States residents (Green Card).
Individuals who enter the United States under the the Visa Waiver Program are
not eligible to change status. The option to change status is the major
advantage of nonimmigrant visas (such as the B2 Tourist Visa) over the Visa
Waiver Program.
Important Warning for Tourist Visa Holders: Persons admitted to the United
States on a B-2 Tourist Visa are not allowed to work or receive any kind of
payment while staying in the United States. Foreign nationals who wish to work
in the United States must apply for a work visa, such as the H1B Visa or H2B
Visa. |
