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US Business Visa B1: Eligibility, And Application Process

Last Update: 28-08-2024

US Business Visa

Navigating the process to obtain a US Business Visa from India can seem daunting, but with the right guidance, it's completely manageable. This guide is crafted to provide you with a clear and thorough understanding of what a B-1 visa is, the specific activities it permits, and the essential steps and documents required for your application. 


Whether you're planning to attend a conference, engage in business negotiations, or explore potential business sites in the U.S., this guide will walk you through each step of the application process. Our goal is to simplify the information and provide practical advice to help you prepare a strong visa application, enhancing your chances for approval without unnecessary stress.

⚡Quick Summary

Is a business visa required for the US?

Yes, all Indian passport holders require a business visa to visit US for temporary business visits.

US business visa processing time

6-12 Months

US business visa fees

USD 185 (INR 15,540/-)

US business visa validity

10 Years

US business visa stay duration

6 Months

How to apply for a US business visa?

  1. Apply through Teleport
  2. Apply through a US government portal.

Documents required for US business visa

  1. Passport
  2. Photograph
  3. DS 160 Confirmation
  4. Cover Letter
  5. Invitation Letter
  6. Bank Statement
  7. Income Tax Return
  8. Other supporting documents

Table of Contents


  1. What is US B1 Business Visa?
  2. Eligibility Criteria for a US B-1 Business Visa
  3. Permitted Business Activities on US Business Visa
  4. How to Get a US Business Visa from India?
  5. US Business Visa Requirements
  6. US Business Visa Processing Time
  7. US Business Visa Fees
  8. Steps to Check the Status of the US Business Visa from India
  9. US Business Visa Validity
  10. FAQs

What is US B1 Business Visa?

The B-1 visa is a type of nonimmigrant visa for the United States specifically designed for individuals engaging in business activities of a commercial or professional nature. This visa allows visitors to enter the U.S. for a limited period to engage in business activities such as consulting with business associates, attending professional, scientific, educational, or business conventions or conferences, settling an estate, or negotiating contracts.

Eligibility Criteria for a US B-1 Business Visa

To qualify for a B-1 visa, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Legitimate Business Purpose: Your trip to the United States must be for genuine business activities.
  • Limited Duration of Stay: You need to show that you plan to stay in the U.S. for a specific, limited period.
  • Sufficient Funds: You must have enough financial resources to cover your trip and stay in the U.S.
  • Strong Ties to Your Home Country: You should have a permanent residence outside the U.S. and other substantial connections to ensure your return after the visit.
  • Admissibility to the US: You must meet all other requirements for entry into the United States.

Permitted Business Activities on US Business Visa

When traveling to the U.S. on a business visa, it's important to understand the specific activities that are permitted under this category. Here’s a simplified guide to what you can do on a U.S. business visa:

  • Conference or Business Event Attendees: Attend scientific, educational, professional, or business gatherings.Must not receive salary or income from a U.S.-based company.
  • Exposition or Trade Show Staff: Work on setting up, maintaining, or dismantling exhibits at international fairs.Must not receive salary or income from a U.S. entity.
  • Lecturers or Speakers: Receive an honorarium for up to nine days from any single institution.Can accept honorariums from no more than five institutions within a six-month period.
  • Researchers: Conduct independent research without salary or income from a U.S. source.Research should not directly benefit a U.S. institution.
  • Sales Representatives: Exhibit, take orders, and negotiate and sign contracts for products manufactured outside the U.S.
  • Trainees: Participate in a training program that does not primarily provide employment.Can receive an expense allowance or reimbursement for their stay, but no other payment or income from a U.S. source.

How to Get a US Business Visa from India?

How to Apply for a US B1 Business Visa Through Teleport

Applying for a US B1 Business Visa is streamlined and stress-free with Teleport. Here’s how you can start your application:

  • Step 1: Start Your USA Business Visa Application: Navigate to Teleport's USA business visa application page and click on 'Start Application.'
  • Step 2: Enter Basic Information and Make Payment: Upload digital copies of the front and back of your passport. Teleport allows you to autofill your data or enter it manually. Choose to pay the visa fee either fully or partially upfront.
  • Step 3: Collect Your Documents: A dedicated Teleport relationship manager will assist you in gathering all the necessary documents for your B1/B2 visa application.
  • Step 4: Appointment Booking: Your relationship manager will help schedule your US visa appointment at the visa application centre and ensure your documents and application are thoroughly reviewed before booking your appointments at the Visa Application Centre and the US consulate/embassy.
  • Step 5: Visit the Visa Application Centre: Attend the visa centre and the US Embassy to submit your biometrics, documents, and for your interview, guided throughout by your relationship manager.

Apply for a US B1 Business Visa through the Government Portal

Step 1: Know Your Visa Type

Identify the type of visa you need based on your travel purpose. For business-related travel, you typically need a B-1 visa.


Step 2: Complete the Visa Application Form

Fill out the Non-immigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) form. Remember, you cannot make changes once the DS-160 is submitted, and the visa call center cannot assist with filling out the form.


Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee

The visa application fee is non-refundable and must be paid before scheduling your appointment. After payment, it may take up to one business day for your receipt to activate.


Step 4: Schedule Your Visa Appointment and Interview

Log in to your profile to schedule your appointments. You'll need two appointments: one at a Visa Application Centre for biometrics and another for the visa interview at the Embassy or Consulate.

List of US Visa Application Centres in India

Visa Application CentreAddress

Delhi

S-1 American Plaza (Hotel Eros managed by Hilton), International Trade Tower, Nehru Place, New Delhi - 110019

Chennai

No. 3, Cenotaph Road, Teynampet, Chennai - 600018

Hyderabad

502, Gowra Grand, S.P. Road, Begumpet, Secunderabad - 500003

Kolkata

Jasmine Tower, 31, Shakespeare Sarani (1st Floor), Kolkata - 700017

Mumbai

Trade Center, Gr. Floor, G Block, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra East, Mumbai - 400051

Step 5: Attend Your Visa Appointment

Bring your passport, DS-160 confirmation page, and a photograph meeting US visa specifications to your Visa Application Center appointment. Children under 14 do not need to attend.


Step 6: Track Your Application

If approved, you will be notified by email and SMS when your passport and visa are ready for pickup at the selected location. Domestic and international delivery is also available as a premium service.

US Business Visa Requirements

Passport

  • Original passport for biometric appointment
  • Old Passport (if any)

Recent Photograph

  • Required for Dropbox applicants
  • White background
  • 2 X 2 inches (51 X 51 mm) in size
  • Without specs and sunglasses

DS 160 Confirmation

A Non-immigrant Visa Electronic Application Form or DS 160 Form

Bank Statement

Last 6 months' bank statements

Income Tax Return

Income Tax Return for the past 3 years

Cover Letter

  • Clearly state the purpose of the trip
  • Specify the travel duration and passport details

Invitation Letter

If visiting friends or family, outline trip details, accommodation, and the immigration status of the host in the USA

If Employed

  • Employer NOC or Leave Approval Letter
  • Last 3 months’ salary slips

If Self-Employed

  • Company registration license, business registration certificate, GST registration with annexure A & B, partnership deed, or proof of proprietorship

US Business Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a US business visa from India can vary significantly as it depends on several factors, including the current workload and staffing levels at the U.S. embassy or consulate where you apply. It's important to note that the wait times provided are estimates only and do not guarantee an exact appointment slot. 


For routine visa applications, it's typical to wait for at least 180 days from the date of your visa interview or the submission of any required supplemental documents before making inquiries about the status of administrative processing, unless there is an emergency situation such as a serious illness or death in your immediate family.


For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding visa appointment availability and processing times, please refer to the official website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you intend to apply. This information is also available on various U.S. government websites, which track wait times for interviews and processing separately. Keep in mind that the time it takes to return your passport after visa issuance, via courier services or local mail, is not included in these processing times.

US Business Visa Fees

For U.S. business visa applicants from India, including children, it's mandatory to pay a non-refundable, non-transferable visa application fee, often called the MRV (Machine Readable Visa) fee. This fee is required regardless of whether the visa is ultimately issued or not. The specific amount you need to pay depends on the type of visa you are applying for.

Visa TypeFee TypeAmount

B Type Visa

Embassy Fees

USD 185 (INR 15,540/-)

Steps to Check the Status of the US Business Visa from India

Track Your US Business Visa Application With Teleport

When you apply for your US business visa using Teleport, you can expect to receive real-time updates. These updates can be accessed through WhatsApp, email, or directly from your Teleport Dashboard, ensuring you're always informed about your US Visa status for your application.


Here’s how you can easily check the progress of your application:


  1. Log in to your Teleport Dashboard.
  2. Navigate to 'Your Applications.'
  3. Select your application to view its current status.

Track Your US Business Visa Application Through the Official Government Portal

For those preferring to use the official channels, you can track your US business visa application through the government’s portal:


  1. Visit the US Consular Electronic Application Centre website.
  2. In the ‘Visa Application Type’ field, select ‘Nonimmigrant Visa (NIV).’
  3. Choose your ‘Location’ as India, and specify the city where you applied.
  4. Enter your ‘Application ID or Case Number.’
  5. Provide your passport number and the first 5 letters of your surname.
  6. Enter the captcha and click ‘Submit’.

By following these steps, you can stay well-informed about your business visa application process, allowing you to plan accordingly and be prepared for your next steps.

US Business Visa Validity

The validity of a US business visa, specifically the B-1 or B-1/B-2 visa, typically extends up to 10 years from the date of issuance. This type of visa generally allows multiple entries into the United States.


However, it's important to understand that the actual validity period of your visa can vary based on several factors. These include the discretion of the consular officer at the time of your visa interview, the specific purpose of your visits, and your individual circumstances.


While the visa may be valid for up to 10 years, the length of each stay during your visits is not determined by the visa itself. Instead, this is decided by the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry. On a B-1 business visa, CBP officers typically authorize a stay of up to six months, as reflected on the Form I-94, which is issued at entry. This form specifies the duration of your permitted stay in the U.S. on that particular visit.

Conclusion

Applying for a B-1 Business Visa is a critical step for many professionals seeking to engage with the U.S. market. This guide has provided a comprehensive overview of everything from the eligibility criteria to the detailed document list and US Visa photo specifications needed for your application. 


By understanding and preparing for each aspect of the application process, you can approach your visa interview with confidence. We encourage you to use this guide as a roadmap for your journey to securing a U.S. business visa, ensuring you are well-prepared for your professional activities in the United States.

FAQs

Who is eligible for a US business visa?

Anyone planning to engage in business activities such as consultations, meetings, negotiations, or conferences, without directly entering the U.S. labor market, may be eligible for a B-1 business visa. Applicants must demonstrate that they have strong ties to their home country and intend to return after their visit.

Is a B-1 visa valid for 10 years?

Yes, a B-1 visa can be issued for up to 10 years, allowing for multiple entries into the United States. However, the validity is at the discretion of the consulate based on your nationality and other factors, and each visit typically allows a stay of up to six months, as determined by CBP officers at the port of entry.

How much bank balance is required for a US business visa from India?

There is no specified minimum bank balance required to qualify for a B-1 visa. However, you must prove that you have sufficient funds to cover your trip expenses, including accommodation, travel, and daily spending. The amount can vary based on the length and nature of your trip.

How can I get a business visa from the USA?

To apply for a B-1 business visa, start by filling out the DS-160 form online. After submitting the form, schedule an interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country. You will need to provide various documents, including proof of your business activities in the U.S., financial means, and ties to your home country. Pay the visa application fee and attend your scheduled interview with all required documentation.

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