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An Introduction to the Types of Business Visa to USA

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America is a popular destination for tourists as well as businessmen. This is because the US economy is ranked Number 1 in the world and many of us want to get a business visa to USA. As a foreigner, if you want to work in the USA, you will need a business visa.

This document is also needed to attend a conference, workshop, meeting etc. in the United States. There are many different types of business visas one may apply for. Some visas are valid for up to 6 months while others are valid for 3 years. Similarly, some can be extended while others cannot.

business visa to usa, B visa usa
A 10-year United States B visa issued to a Chinese citizen. Image courtesy U.S. Customs and Border Protection

What are the Types of Business Visa to USA?

Immigrants working in the USA without the right work visa may face deportation. In addition, the company they work for may also be fined. Thus, it is essential to understand the different types of business visa to USA. They differ depending on the length of time to be spent in the USA. They also vary by the type of work permitted.

B1 Visa

This is a short-term document that is valid for up to 6 months. Individuals holding this visa can negotiate terms but cannot sign any contracts. They are not allowed to work for hire in the USA.

E1 Visa

Individuals wanting to trade with the USA need an E1 visa. This is a treaty trader visa that is applicable only for individuals from certain countries. These countries should have signed appropriate treaties with the United States of America. This business visa to USA is valid as long as the business exists. Children under the age of 21 may be granted a visa under this category. However, they cannot work in the USA and lose their visa on turning 21.

E2 Visa

This is also known as a treaty investor visa. Natives of countries that have signed certain treaties with the USA can apply for this variation. This is awarded to individuals wanting to set up a new business in the USA. The visa is temporary but can be renewed as long as the business is running. Children under the age of 21 can be given a visa in this category. They cannot work in the USA and their visa is valid only until their 21st birthday.

EB5 Visa

Individuals who want to immigrate to the USA may apply for this visa. They can apply for this visa by investing in the US economy. The minimum amount to be put in for backward sections of the US economy is $500,000. In the case of all other companies, $10,00,000 or more must be invested. These may be new companies or companies being expanded. This visa is valid for two years. If all the visa conditions are met, it may be adjusted to permanent residency.

L1 Visa

Many US companies have offices in other parts of the world. The L1 visa is awarded to people moving from an international branch to a US office. The applicant should have worked with the company for at least one year in the past three years. He should have also been employed as an executive or manager. This business visa to the US is valid for one year but can be extended thrice. There is no quota for this type of visa.

H1B Visa

Individuals wanting to set up a company cannot apply for this visa. There are many different ways to apply for the H1B visa. People with specialized skills get preference for this visa in the employment category. The visa is usually awarded for three years and can be extended.

H-2B Visa

In sectors such as hotels, farming and tourism, work may be seasonal. In such cases, the H2B visa may be applied for. This visa is valid for one year. Only individuals from certain countries may apply for this visa.

O1 Visa

Applicants with special abilities in their field are eligible for this visa. The applicant should have received national or global recognition for their achievements. This business visa to USA is valid for three years and may be extended.

TN Visa

This is also referred to as a NAFTA temporary work visa. Citizens of Canada and Mexico are eligible for this visa. It cannot be used for self-employment. It is valid for three years after which it may be extended.

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