B-2 Tourist Visa: Your Guide to Leisure Travel in the U.S.

Definition & Meaning

A B-2 Tourist Visa is a type of nonimmigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to visit the United States for leisure, tourism, or medical treatment. This visa is essential for individuals from countries not participating in the Visa Waiver Program, which permits short visits without a visa. Even travelers from Visa Waiver Program countries need a B-2 visa if they plan to stay longer than 90 days, change their visa status, or apply for permanent residency while in the U.S.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A tourist from Brazil applies for a B-2 visa to visit national parks and attend a family reunion in the U.S. They plan to stay for three weeks and have a round-trip ticket to prove their intent to return.

Example 2: A medical patient from Mexico seeks a B-2 visa to receive treatment for a health condition in the U.S. They provide documentation from a U.S. healthcare provider confirming their appointment and treatment plan. (hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
B-2 Tourist Visa Visa for leisure or tourism in the U.S. Nonimmigrant visa; cannot work or study.
B-1 Business Visa Visa for business-related activities. Intended for business, not leisure.
Visa Waiver Program Allows short visits without a visa. Applies only to certain countries; limited to 90 days.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are considering applying for a B-2 Tourist Visa, start by gathering the required documents, such as your passport, travel itinerary, and proof of ties to your home country. You can find helpful templates for visa applications on US Legal Forms. If your situation is complex or you have questions, it may be wise to consult with a legal professional for tailored advice.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Typical duration of stay Up to six months
Eligibility Foreign nationals from non-Visa Waiver Program countries
Application requirement Must demonstrate intent to return
Processing time Varies; typically several weeks

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

The B-2 Tourist Visa allows individuals to visit the U.S. for leisure, tourism, or medical treatment.