In response to our clients concerns regarding whether a B-2 visitor visa is appropriate to travel for business or employment opportunities, we provide a brief explanation below.
The B-1/B-2 visa category is often confusing. Foreign nationals falsely believe they automatically have been granted permission to conduct business and employment activities on a B-1/B-2. However, failing to disclose this specific purpose to the U.S. Consulate or U.S. Customs Border & Patrol may disqualify individuals from future immigration benefits. Despite the category of B-1/B-2 visa being denoted on a visa, the B-1 visa is distinguished from the B-2. A B-1 visa is a business visitor visa which grants U.S. visitors the ability to conduct short term business activities such as setting up a business or seeking employment. In contrast, a B-2visa is limited to vacation and visiting family and friends.
The Department of Homeland Security (“DHS”) and the Department of State (“DOS”) screens and questions intent before granting anyone a visa. Therefore, it is important to use a B-2 visa for its intended purpose only and not for any business or employment purposes.
When a business owner is ready to work fulltime in the United
States, they may apply for a long term work visa such as the L-1 (Intra Company Transfer visa) or an E (Investor visa) without a challenge or denial by U.S. Immigration.
Our attorneys are members of the American Immigration Lawyers’ Association (“AILA”), and have 20 years of experience in U.S. Immigration matters. We serve clients all of the United States and at U.S. Consulates around the world. We are based in the Washington D.C. area, Fairfax, Virginia and Rockville Maryland. We are standing by to answer questions on behalf of your business and your family. We serve clients through the United States and abroad.
Our offices are located in Washington D.C, Virginia and Maryland. You may email info@vasselllaw.com or visit www.vasselllaw.com. (Phone and Video Consultations Available upon Request).
ScottVassell & LeeCC Law Firm