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The B-1 Visa for Business

You can use a B-1 visa for a variety of business-related activities. The following are examples of lawful B-1 activities:

  • Attending a scientific, educational, professional or business convention, conference or seminar
  • Giving a lecture
  • Doing independent research at a scientific or educational institution
  • Participating in a voluntary service program
  • Participating in a sporting event

People who have B-1 visas may not, in general, get salaries or money from U.S. sources. Another kind of visa is required for temporary work in the United States.

Doing Business and Working Temporarily in the United States

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Each year hundreds of thousands of people travel to the United States to do business and work temporarily. We welcome the international exchange of commerce, the contribution of temporary workers to our society, and cultural, educational and training programs in the U.S.

The U.S. government made some changes in visa procedures after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. Visa applications are evaluated very carefully. Applicants often have additional security procedures. Visa applications take more time now than in the past. However, after an initial period of adjustment, improved and automated procedures have considerably sped up visa clearance procedures.

The United States is a free and open society. We welcome citizens from around the world who want to conduct legitimate business and work temporarily here. We are dedicated to protecting their safety, keeping our doors open to them, and fostering the efficient transaction of commerce.

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