US visa categories are divided into two types: non-immigrant and immigrant. Non-immigrant visas are temporary and allow a person to enter the US for a particular activity in the US for a limited period of time. Immigrant visas are permanent visas, otherwise known as a “green card” and allow a person to reside permanently in the US.

Nonimmigrant Visa

The B Visitor visa category allows visitors to travel to the USA for the purpose of business or tourism. The B-1 visa is for those who wish to enter the US solely for business and the B-2 visa is for those entering the USA solely for tourism. Often, a person’s activity in the US will involve a mix of business and tourism and therefore a Consular Officer may issue the visa as a combined B-1/B-2 visa so the applicant can engage in both business and tourism activities.

Most British, Irish, and other European country passport holders may enter the US for up to 90 days a trip for the purpose of business or tourism.

You hold a passport from a country that does not participate in the US Visa Waiver Program.

Criteria for the US Visitor Visa

When a person applies for a B-1 or B-2 Visitor visa at an Embassy or Consulate he or she must demonstrate that the activity they intend to participate in the USA meets the requirements of the visa category (ie, visiting for business or tourism) and the applicant:
has a residence and life that are based in a foreign country, outside the USA.
has no intention of abandoning that foreign residence, and
will visit the US temporarily.

To apply for a B1/B2 visa you must appear for an interview at a local Embassy or Consulate. You will be required to explain the purpose of the proposed trip to the USA and explain what ties to you to your home country including a home or a job to return to after the brief trip to the US. Often, the verbal interview is a very important part of the application process but the applicant may bring documentation to demonstrate the purpose of the US visit and their ties to their home country.