Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Visitor visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons who want to enter the United States temporarily for business (visa category B-1), tourism, pleasure or visiting (visa category B-2), or a combination of both purposes (B-1/B-2).

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Business (B-1)

Consult with Business Associates

Attend a Scientific, Educational, Professional, or Business Convention or Conference

Settle an Estate

Negotiate a Contract

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Tourism and Visit (B-2)

Tourism

Vacation (Holiday)

Visit with Friends or Relatives

Medical Treatment

Participation in Social Events Hosted by Fraternal, Social, or Service Organizations

Participation by amateurs in Musical, Sports, or similar Events or Contests, If not being paid for Participating

Enrollment in a short Recreational Course of Study, not for Credit toward a Degree

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Travel Purposes Not Permitted On Visitor Visas

Study

Employment

Paid Performances, or any Professional Performance before a Paying Audience

Arrival as a Crewmember on a Ship or Aircraft

Work as Foreign Press, Radio, Film, Journalists, and other Information Media