B-2 Visa Lawyer Philadelphia

The B-2 visa classification allows foreign nationals to enter the United States temporarily to engage in tourist activities. Permissible activity on a B-2 visa includes vacationing, visiting friends and/or relatives, seeking medical treatment, participating in amateur sports or musical contests, and attending short recreational courses of study (with restrictions).  

The B-2 visa application process is typically short, depending on interview backlogs at local U.S. Embassies and Consulates. 

Requirements:

In order to apply for a B-2 visa, a foreign national must be prepared to submit the following documentation:

1. Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond his/her intended period of stay in the United States;
2. Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160);
3. Passport-style photograph 2” by 2” (5cm by 5cm);
4. Previously issued U.S. visas;
5. Relevant documentation from any arrest or citation anywhere in the world;
6. Proof of their ability to financially support themselves during their visit to the United States (e.g., tax documents, bank account statements, affidavit of support); 
7. Proof that they intend to visit the United States only on a temporary basis—options are varied and include:

• Hotel and round-trip flight reservations;
• Literature regarding conferences or competitions the foreign national plans to attend;
• Medical documentation, if seeking medical care;
• Proof of the foreign nationals’ “ties” to their home country (e.g., pay stubs, bank account statements, tax returns, residential lease agreements, deeds and mortgage documentation, affidavits from family members, proof of business ownership, children’s birth certificates, vehicle ownership documents, etc.).

Applying for the B-2 Visa:

The B-2 visa application process is a three-step process:

1. Filing the DS-160 Nonimmigrant Visa Application:

• The foreign national must complete and submit an online visa application using the Department of State’s website—every member of the family who is seeking a visa must also submit their own application.
• Once the application is submitted, the foreign national must pay their visa application fees (process varies by country) and schedule their visa interview appointment at their local U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

2. Attending the B-2 Visa Interview at the U.S. Embassy:

• The foreign national must attend an interview at their local U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
• During the interview, an immigration officer will review the applicant’s visa application and supporting documentation. 
• Typical wait times for this step are less than one month. 
• B-2 visas may be issued for up to 10 years and may typically be used for multiple trips to the United States.

3. Application for Entry at a U.S. Port of Entry:

• Once the foreign national has their B-2 visa in hand they may seek to enter the United States.
• When the foreign national applies to enter the United States, an immigration officer will doublecheck their credentials and stamp their passport before admitting them into the country. 
• B-2 visitors are permitted to remain in the United States for an initial period of 6 months at maximum.

Philadelphia B-2 Visa Lawyer

Additional Information:

The B-2 visa category is the traditional option for individuals who would like to visit the United States—however, immigration officers do not consistently and accurately review B-2 visa applications, which may lead to delays and complications. These delays and complications can typically be avoided by working together with an attorney to gather as much proof as possible in support of the application. 

Spouses and children (under 21 years of age) may apply for B-2 visas as well. Critically, B-2 visa holders may not be employed in the United States.

The B-2 visa application process can be complex and time-consuming. The Law Offices of Greg Prosmushkin, P.C. can assist you and advise you through the process. If you are interested in visiting the United States, or are already present in this country and wish to extend your visa, you should seek guidance from an Immigration Lawyer. Contact our office online, or call 215-673-7733 to schedule a free consultation.

This content was written on behalf of Greg Prosmushkin.