How Can I Increase My Chances of Getting a B1/B2 Visa?
The B1/B2 visa is a non-immigrant visa type, allowing foreign nationals to temporarily visit the United States for business, tourism, or medical treatment. You can increase your chances of B1/B2 visa approval by providing strong evidence that you intend to return home when the reason for your proposed visit is over.
A US visitor visa lawyer in Tampa at Bassey Law can help you navigate the B1/B2 visa application so that your chances of receiving the visa are increased.
What is the Difference Between a B1 and a B2 Visa?
For business purposes, foreign nationals need a B1 visa to visit the U.S. Those traveling for pleasure should have a B2 visa. If your U.S. visit involves a mixture of both, you will need a B1/B2 visa.
Increase your chances of obtaining a B1/B2 visa by applying for the proper visa for your situation.
Activities permitted with a B1 visa include:
- Attending scientific, business, educational or professional conferences
- Estate settlement
- Contract negotiation
- Consulting with business associates
Activities permitted with a B2 visa include:
- Tourism
- Medical treatment
- Visiting family or friends
- Amateur participation in sports, musical performances, and similar events in which there is no payment
- Enrollment in short, non-degree recreational classes
Note that birth tourism, or pregnant women visiting the U.S. so their child will be born here and receive citizenship, is not permitted on a B1/B2 visa.
Ways to Increase Your Chances of Getting a B1/B2 Visa
When applying for a B1/B2 visa, proper documentation is critical. The U.S. government wants to make sure that visitors do not plan to overstay their visas and remain in the country. If you have dependents, such as children, living in your home country, that is a sign your home country ties are strong. However, having family in the U.S. can decrease your chances of getting a B1/B2 visa, as such visitors are more likely to try to stay in the U.S.
Besides family, proof of property or business ownership in your home country are good signs that you intend to remain a temporary visitor.
Having a job in your home country and employment verification can make the difference between B1/B2 visa approval and rejection. If you are currently unemployed, that lowers the odds of receiving a visitor’s visa.
Consular Interview
Strong preparation for the consular interview required for the B1/B2 visa is one of the best ways to receive approval. Make sure your intent to return to your country after your visit is clear. Be candid about the purpose of your visit.
Present yourself well with proper attire, and always remain respectful.
Contact a B1/B2 Visitor Visas Attorney
If you are planning a trip to the U.S. for business or pleasure, an experienced B1/B2 visitor visas attorney at Bassey Law can ensure your supporting documents are in order, and your application is sound, as well as help you prepare for your interview. We have two Florida offices: one in Tampa and one in Clearwater. Contact us today to get your questions answered and schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We look forward to helping you.
About Bassey Immigration Law Center, P.A.
Bassey Immigration Law Center, P.A., led by attorney Aniefiok Bassey, provides comprehensive immigration services to individuals, families, and businesses in Florida and beyond. With over 20 years of experience, the firm assists clients with a wide range of immigration matters, from family reunification and green cards to business visas and deportation defense. The diverse, multilingual team is dedicated to supporting clients through the complex immigration process, with a special focus on citizenship, asylum, and LGBTQ+ immigration needs. They offer affordable initial consultations and are committed to delivering personalized, strategic guidance for achieving clients’ immigration goals.
