Can I apply for B1/B2 visa while in the U.S. on another visa?
B1/B2 Visa
January 03, 2026
1,369 views
Answer
📋 Summary:
No, you cannot apply for B1/B2 visa while in the U.S. You must apply at a U.S. consulate in your home country. However, you can change status to B1/B2 while in the U.S. using Form I-539, but this is different from getting a visa.
You cannot get a B1/B2 visa while in the U.S.:
- Visa vs Status: Visa is for entry, status is for staying
- Visas are issued: Only at U.S. consulates/embassies outside U.S.
- Change of status: Can change to B1/B2 status while in U.S. (Form I-539)
- Different process: Change of status doesn't give you a visa stamp
Additional Information:
- If you change status to B1/B2, you get B1/B2 status but no visa
- If you leave U.S., you'll need to get B1/B2 visa at consulate to return
- Change of status is for temporary stay extension
- Visa is needed for re-entry after leaving U.S.
💡 In Other Words:
Think of visa like a "ticket to enter" and status like "permission to stay." You can't get a new "ticket" (visa) while you're already inside - you have to go outside to get it. But you can change your "permission to stay" (status) while inside. However, if you leave, you'll need a new "ticket" (visa) to come back.
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