US B1/B2 visa guide for Palestinian citizens in 2025

What are the current US visa requirements for Palestinians?

Palestinian passport holders must apply for a B1/B2 Visitor Visa to enter the United States. This non-immigrant visa allows for temporary stays for either business (B1) or tourism/medical treatment (B2).

These visas typically allow for a stay of up to 6 months per visit, though US Customs and Border Protection determines the final duration at entry.

What do Palestinians need to apply for a US B1/B2 visa?

To begin the process, Palestinians will need:

• A valid Palestinian passport
• A completed DS-160 form
• A digital passport-style photo
• Payment for the non-refundable visa fee
• An appointment at a US embassy or consulate for a visa interview

💡 iVisa Pro Tip: US embassies serving Palestinians are often in neighboring countries such as Jordan or Egypt.

What supporting documents do Palestinians need for a B1/B2 visa?

To support your B1/B2 application, be prepared to show:

• Proof of strong ties to Palestine (e.g. family, property, employment, or community involvement)
• Evidence of financial means to cover your stay (bank statements, payslips, sponsor letters)
• Intent to return to Palestine after your visit
• Travel itinerary or details of your reason for visiting
• Invitation letter (if visiting family or attending an event)
• Any previous travel history (if applicable)

What are Palestinians allowed to do while on a B1/B2 visa?

With a B1/B2 visa, Palestinians ✅ can:

• Visit family and friends
• Tourist activities (e.g. sightseeing, theme parks, cultural trips)
• Attend business meetings or conferences
• Receive medical treatment
• Participate in short recreational or educational courses (non-credit)

What aren’t Palestinians allowed to do while on a B1/B2 visa?

While in the US on a B1/B2 visa, you ❌ cannot:

• Work or be employed, including freelance gigs
• Study in a full-time academic program
• Engage in journalism or media work
• Overstay your visa. Doing so can lead to bans on future travel
• Apply for permanent residency or change status easily. The B1/B2 is strictly for temporary visits

How to apply online for a B1/B2 visa?

Palestinians can begin their application for the B1/B2 visa by completing the DS-160 form online and scheduling an interview at a US embassy or consulate.

To apply for a B1/B2 visa follow these steps

1️⃣ Fill out the DS-160 form: This is your primary visa application. It must be submitted online and include details about your identity, background, and travel purpose.

2️⃣ Pay the visa application fee: This is a non-refundable fee. Keep the receipt.

3️⃣ Schedule a visa interview: Choose the nearest US embassy or consulate (e.g., in Amman, Cairo, or Tel Aviv). Interview availability can vary widely and early booking is advised.

4️⃣ Attend your visa interview: Bring all required documents. A consular officer will ask about your plans and intentions in the US.

5️⃣ Wait for a decision: If approved, your visa will be stamped into your passport. Processing time varies, but can take a few days to several weeks.

Tips for Palestinians applying for a US B1/B2 visa

Applying for a UK Standard Visitors Visa can be tricky, but at iVisa we aim to take the sting out of the application process.

• ⌚ Start early to avoid stress and potential issues
• 📃 Ensure all documents are clear, legible, and in English
• 🧑‍💼 Approach your application professionally and meticulously
• 👀 Double-check all information for accuracy
• ✅ Understand and comply with visa conditions

What are the most common reasons for a US B1/B2 visa rejection?

Some of the most common reasons Palestinians are denied B1/B2 visas include:

• Insufficient proof of ties to Palestine
• Unclear financial situation
• Inconsistent answers during the interview
• Past immigration violations
• Missing or incomplete documents

Understanding B1 visa rejection reasons

Navigating common challenges for Palestinian citizens applying for a US B1/B2 visa

While the B1/B2 visa process is standardized, Palestinians often face specific regional challenges. Here’s how we help you overcome them:

Challenge 1: No US embassy in Palestine

Many Palestinians must travel to embassies in neighboring countries, which adds complexity.

Solution: We assist in selecting the most accessible embassy and help schedule appointments. We also guide you on required entry permits to reach that embassy location.

Challenge 2: Demonstrating strong ties to Palestine

Due to geopolitical instability, applicants may face additional scrutiny regarding their return intentions.

Solution: We guide you in gathering and presenting strong evidence of ties, such as family responsibilities, work, education, or property ownership, to reassure visa officers.

Challenge 3: Meeting financial proof requirements

Applicants must show they can support themselves in the US without working, which can be difficult for some.

Solution: We provide templates and guidance on how to present financial records, sponsor letters, and income documentation in a way that meets US standards.

Can I contact iVisa about the US B1/B2?

In case you have any questions about the US B1/B2 visa or any other travel document, you can reach out to our customer support team online or WhatsApp.

Embassy locations and contact information

For Palestinian citizens, the primary U.S. diplomatic missions handling visa applications are:

U.S. Embassy Jerusalem 14 David Flusser Jerusalem 9378322 Email: [email protected] Phone: +972-2-630-4000

U.S. Embassy Branch Office Tel Aviv 71 Hayarkon Street Tel Aviv 6343229 Email: [email protected] Phone: +972-3-519-7575