US B1 B2 visa sample picture and how to read it

If you have a US B1/B2 visa (or you are about to receive one), it helps to know what it should look like and which details matter. This guide walks you through a US B1 B2 visa sample picture and explains how to read the most important fields so you can travel with confidence.

What a US B1/B2 visa looks like in your passport

A US B1/B2 visa is a visa foil (a printed visa sticker) placed in your passport by a US embassy or consulate. It includes your photo, personal details, the visa type, and the validity dates.

What you should check on the full visa page

Start by confirming these basics match your passport and your approval details:

• Your name and passport number are correct
• Your nationality is correct
• Your visa type/class shows B1/B2 (or the class you were approved for)
• Your visa issue date and expiration date look right

If something is wrong, contact the issuing embassy or consulate before you travel.

Control number on a US B1/B2 visa sample picture

The control number is printed near the top of the visa. It helps identify the visa record.

What the control number means for travellers

In most cases, this number is mainly for administrative and verification purposes. You typically do not need to do anything with it, but it is useful to know where it appears on the visa in case you are asked for it or need to reference it when contacting support.

Issue date and expiration date on a US B1/B2 visa sample picture

Your visa includes the dates showing when it was issued and when it expires. These dates relate to when you can use the visa to request entry to the United States.

Important note about visa validity vs. length of stay

Your visa’s expiration date is not the same thing as how long you can stay in the United States on each trip.

• The visa validity dates show the time window when you can use the visa to travel to a US port of entry.
• Your length of stay is decided separately when you arrive, based on your admission record.

If your visa is expired, you cannot use it to travel, even if you previously had a clean travel history.

Visa type and class on a US B1/B2 visa sample picture

On a B1/B2 visa, the visa class field will show B1/B2. This is the category for short-term visits for business and tourism.

What B1/B2 covers

A B1/B2 visa is commonly issued as a combination visitor visa. That means it can cover typical short-term visitor activities, including business trips and tourism, as long as you follow the rules of the visa.

It does not allow long-term study, employment in the United States, or moving to the United States permanently.

What you should receive after approval

If your application is approved, you should expect:

1. Your passport returned with the US visa foil placed inside
2. Any delivery or pickup instructions based on the embassy or consulate process

Always check the printed details as soon as you receive your passport back. Fixing errors is much easier before your trip.

What to do if your US B1/B2 visa has incorrect details

Before you travel, review your visa foil carefully. Even a small mistake, like a misspelling in your name or an incorrect passport number, can cause issues at check-in or at the border.

If you spot an error:

1. Do not travel until it is corrected: Airlines and border officers rely on the details printed on the visa.

2. Contact the US embassy or consulate that issued the visa: The issuing post is printed on the visa, and that is usually the best starting point for corrections.

3. Prepare supporting documents: Bring your passport, your visa, and any documents confirming your details (such as your passport biodata page and your DS-160 confirmation).

4. Follow the embassy’s correction instructions: Some errors can be corrected through a simple procedure, while others may require a new application or appointment.

Why apply with iVisa

Applying for a US B1/B2 visa can feel overwhelming, especially when forms, document requirements, and appointment steps vary by country. With iVisa, you get support that helps you stay accurate and avoid common mistakes.

When you apply with iVisa, you get:

• A guided DS-160 application experience
• A review of your information to help catch mistakes before submission
• Clear instructions on the next steps, including appointment and document submission guidance
• Real-time updates through our platform and mobile app
• Customer support via chat and WhatsApp if you need help along the way

Need help with your US B1/B2 visa?

If you have questions about your visa details, the application process, or what to do next, our team can help.

Contact us anytime via iVisa chat or WhatsApp