What is the difference between B1 and B2 visa?
B1/B2 Visa
January 01, 2026
1,229 views
Answer
📋 Summary:
B1 visa is for business activities (meetings, conferences), while B2 visa is for tourism and visiting. Most visitors receive a B1/B2 combination visa that allows both purposes. Neither visa allows work or study.
B1 Visa (Business Visitor):
- Purpose: For business activities (meetings, conferences, negotiations)
- Activities allowed: Attending business meetings, conferences, trade shows, contract negotiations
- Cannot: Work or receive payment from U.S. sources
- Duration: Short-term business visits (typically up to 6 months per entry)
B2 Visa (Tourist/Visitor):
- Purpose: For tourism, vacation, visiting family/friends
- Activities allowed: Sightseeing, visiting relatives, medical treatment, recreational activities
- Cannot: Work or study (academic programs require F-1 visa)
- Duration: Typically up to 6 months per entry
B1/B2 Combination Visa:
- Most visitors receive a B1/B2 combination visa that allows both business and tourism
- Gives flexibility to engage in both business and tourist activities during the same trip
- Same validity period and entry rules apply
💡 In Other Words:
Think of B1 as a "business pass" and B2 as a "tourist pass." Most people get a combination pass (B1/B2) that lets them do both. The key rule: you can't work or study on either visa - B1 is for business meetings, B2 is for vacation, but neither lets you earn money or enroll in school.
Was this helpful?