The B1/B2 visitor visa is the most common US visa for business trips, tourism, family visits and medical treatment. Approval depends largely on one conversation with a consular officer, so preparation is essential.
B1 or B2?
- B1 (business) – meetings, conferences, contract negotiations and similar short business activities. It does not allow paid employment in the US.
- B2 (tourism) – holidays, visiting friends and family, and medical treatment.
Most applicants receive a combined B1/B2 visa.
Step-by-step process
- Complete the online DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application and print the confirmation page.
- Pay the visa application (MRV) fee – currently US$185 for B1/B2.
- Book your biometrics and interview appointments.
- Attend the interview with your passport and supporting documents.
Fees to budget for
Besides the US$185 application fee, the US passed legislation in July 2025 creating a visa integrity fee of at least US$250 for many nonimmigrant visas. Reports on whether and how it is being collected have varied, so check the official State Department fee page when you apply. Some nationalities also pay a reciprocity (issuance) fee.
Recent changes you should know
- Interview waivers have been narrowed. Since late 2025, most first-time applicants must attend an in-person interview, including children and older applicants who were previously exempt. Limited renewal waivers may still apply in specific cases.
- Apply where you live. The State Department now expects applicants to apply at the US embassy or consulate in their country of nationality or residence. Applying in a third country is generally no longer an option for routine cases.
Why visas are refused: Section 214(b)
Under US law, every visitor visa applicant is presumed to intend to immigrate until they show otherwise. Most refusals happen under Section 214(b) because the officer is not convinced the applicant has strong ties to home or that the trip’s purpose is genuine and temporary.
Documents to take to the interview
- Valid passport (generally valid for at least six months beyond your stay) and old passports
- DS-160 confirmation page and appointment confirmation
- Fee payment receipt and a photo that meets US requirements
- Proof of employment, business ownership or studies
- Bank statements and income evidence
- Evidence of ties at home, such as family, property or ongoing work
- Invitation letter, conference registration or travel plan, if relevant
Interview tips
- Answer briefly, clearly and honestly – officers often decide within a few minutes.
- Make sure every answer matches your DS-160 exactly.
- Be able to explain your purpose, plans and who is paying for the trip in one or two sentences.
- Do not memorise scripts or carry documents you cannot explain.
- If you were refused before, show what has genuinely changed in your circumstances.
How AZ Sterling International can help
We confirm the correct visa category, prepare your DS-160, organise your supporting documents and run a mock interview so you can answer confidently. We do not guarantee visa issuance; the decision rests with the consular officer.
See our USA visa service or request a free assessment.
Sources
- U.S. Department of State – Visitor visa
- U.S. Department of State – Fees for visa services
- CountryPilot – US visa integrity fee explained
- Immigration World – US visa interview waiver 2026
Information is current as of November 2026 and may change. Always confirm current fees and rules with the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
