Key points
- The B1/B2 is a non-immigrant visa for business (B1) and tourism (B2) travel to the United States.
- Once issued it is typically valid for 10 years and allows multiple entries of up to 180 days each.
- Applicants pay the government MRV fee of $185, separate from any service fee.
- You'll need a passport valid for six months, a compliant digital photo, and details of past travel.
- Processing depends on the U.S. government and interview wait times, not on iVisa.
Planning repeat trips to the United States for business or leisure? The B1/B2 visa is the non-immigrant category most travelers use, and when issued it is generally valid for 10 years with multiple entries. Here’s what the visa covers, what it costs, and how the application works.
iVisa is a private travel-document service, not a government agency. We help you prepare and submit your application, but the U.S. government decides whether to issue a visa and how long processing takes. The government advises allowing at least four weeks to process an application, and in practice interview appointment waits at some embassies and consulates can be much longer.
What is the American B1/B2 visa?
The B1/B2 is a temporary non-immigrant visa that combines two purposes. The B1 is for business travelers, and the B2 is for tourism. Because many trips involve both, the combined B1/B2 avoids the need to choose between them and covers business meetings, sightseeing, visiting family, and medical treatment under a single visa.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I apply online?
You can start your application with iVisa, and our visa experts guide you through the B1/B2 process. The application itself is submitted to the U.S. government, and an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate is usually part of the process.
What documents do I need?
Requirements can vary by nationality, but applicants generally need:
- A valid passport with at least six months of validity from your intended date of departure
- A digital photo that meets U.S. government specifications
- A valid email address
- Your travel plans, if already booked
- Your international travel history for the last five years
- A declaration confirming the purpose of your trip (business, tourism, or medical treatment)
How much does it cost?
The U.S. government charges an MRV (Machine-Readable Visa) fee of $185 for the B1/B2 application. This is a government fee set by U.S. authorities and is required regardless of how you apply. If you apply through iVisa, our service fee is charged separately and covers help preparing your application and access to our support team. We don’t offer the visa for “free” and no service can guarantee approval or speed up the government’s decision.
How long is the visa valid?
Once issued, the B1/B2 is typically valid for 10 years from the date of issue.
How long can I stay?
The B1/B2 is a multiple-entry visa. Each visit allows a stay of up to 180 days, as determined by the border officer at the time of entry.
How to apply
- Complete the online application, which takes about 10 minutes.
- Get support from our team as you prepare your documents.
- Submit your documents to the U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Attend a visa interview if one is required.
- Receive your visa.
Support
iVisa offers secure online applications and a support team available around the clock if you have questions while applying. For authoritative and up-to-date entry requirements, always check official U.S. government sources.
Related links: Apply Now · B1/B2 Visa Information · Customer Reviews · Contact Support
