What Is a US Business Visa?
A US business visa allows foreign nationals to enter the United States for temporary commercial or professional activities. The B-1 visa category covers business visitors who need to conduct specific activities without receiving payment from a U.S. source.
According to USCIS guidance (January 2025), permitted B-1 activities include:
- Attending business meetings or consultations
- Negotiating contracts
- Participating in conferences or trade shows
- Conducting independent research
- Receiving training from a U.S. parent company
- Settling an estate
The B-1 visa does not permit employment. Holders cannot receive a salary or wages from any U.S. employer. Violating these terms can result in deportation and future visa denials.
Think of the B-1 visa as a guest pass to a business event. You can attend, participate, and network, but you cannot join the payroll.
B1 vs B2 Visa: Key Differences Explained
The U.S. issues two visitor visa categories under the B classification. Most UK applicants receive a combined B1/B2 visa, which permits both business and tourism activities during a single trip.
| Feature | B1 Visa (Business) | B2 Visa (Tourism) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary purpose | Commercial or professional activities | Tourism, holidays, visiting family |
| Permitted activities | Meetings, conferences, contract negotiations, training | Sightseeing, visiting relatives, medical treatment |
| Employment allowed | No | No |
| Payment from U.S. source | Not permitted | Not permitted |
| Typical use case | Attending a trade show in New York | Family holiday in Florida |
| Can combine purposes | Yes, with B1/B2 | Yes, with B1/B2 |
The combined B1/B2 visa is standard for UK applicants. It provides flexibility to mix business meetings with leisure activities during the same trip. The consular officer determines which visa type to issue based on the application.
Types of US Business Visas: Complete Overview
Beyond the B1/B2 visitor visa, several other visa categories allow business activities in the United States. Each serves different purposes with varying requirements, durations, and limitations. Understanding your options helps you choose the right visa for your situation.
| Visa | Description | Duration | Key Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| B1 | Short-term business visa. Not allowed to sign contracts or perform work for hire | Temporary, up to 6 months | Can negotiate but cannot sign contracts |
| B2 | Short-term tourist visa for holidays, visiting family, or medical treatment | Temporary, up to 6 months | Can negotiate but cannot sign contracts |
| E-1 | Treaty trader visa. For setting up a business that trades with the visa-holder's home country. Must be from a treaty country | Temporary, renewable while business operates | Valid only while business exists. Children under 21 cannot work |
| E-2 | Treaty investor visa. Allows citizens of treaty countries to start a business in the US | Temporary, renewable while business operates | Valid only while business exists. Children under 21 cannot work |
| EB-5 | Investor Green Card program. Requires $500K-$1MM investment, must hire at least 10 US residents within 2 years | Leads to permanent residence after probation period | High investment threshold, job creation requirements |
| L-1 | Intercompany transfer visa. Allows transfer from foreign company to US company (subject to restrictions) | 1 year, with up to 3 extensions | Must have worked for foreign company 1+ year in the last 3 years |
| H-1B | Specialised labour visa for professionals in specialty occupations | 3 years, extendable | Annual quota limits availability. Cannot be used for self-employment |
| O-1 | Extraordinary ability visa for individuals with exceptional achievements in their field | Up to 3 years, extendable | Must document extraordinary ability with evidence |
| TN | USMCA (formerly NAFTA) temporary work visa for Canadian and Mexican professionals | Up to 3 years, extendable | Cannot be used for self-employment. Limited to specific professions |
Source: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), December 2024. Requirements subject to change.
Which Visa Is Right for You?
Short business trips (meetings, conferences): Use ESTA or B1 visa. No work permit needed for temporary visits.
Starting or investing in a US business: The E-2 treaty investor visa is ideal for UK citizens. It allows you to own and operate a US business with renewable status.
Exceptional talent (arts, sciences, business, athletics): The O-1 extraordinary ability visa recognises individuals at the top of their field.
Australian citizens: Consider the E-3 visa, a specialty occupation visa exclusively for Australians.
Permanent residence through investment: The EB-5 programme offers a path to a Green Card but requires substantial capital ($500K-$1MM) and job creation.
Each visa category has specific eligibility requirements. Consult with an immigration attorney to determine the best option for your circumstances.
US Business Visa Requirements for UK Citizens
British citizens can apply for a US business visa at the U.S. Embassy in London or the U.S. Consulate in Belfast. The application requires several documents and supporting evidence.
Required Documents
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid passport | Must be valid for at least six months beyond intended stay |
| DS-160 confirmation | Online nonimmigrant visa application form |
| Photograph | 5cm x 5cm, taken within last six months, white background |
| Fee payment receipt | MRV fee payment confirmation |
| Appointment confirmation | Interview booking at embassy or consulate |
Supporting Evidence
Applicants must demonstrate they qualify for the visa and intend to return to the UK. Evidence includes:
Business purpose documentation:
- Invitation letter from U.S. company or event organiser
- Conference registration or agenda
- Details of meetings scheduled
- Letter from UK employer confirming travel purpose
Ties to the UK:
- Employment contract or letter from employer
- Property ownership or rental agreement
- Bank statements showing financial stability
- Evidence of family ties (spouse, children)
Financial evidence:
- Recent bank statements (three to six months)
- Payslips or tax returns
- Letter confirming who covers travel expenses
The consular officer evaluates whether you have strong enough ties to the UK to ensure you will return after your visit. Weak ties are a common reason for visa denials.
Can a British citizen do business in the USA? Yes, but only within the limits of the visa category. A B-1 visa permits business activities; it does not authorise employment or establishing a company. UK citizens seeking to start or invest in a U.S. business may need an E-2 treaty investor visa instead.
B1/B2 Visa Application Process Step-by-Step
The application process involves five main stages. Most applicants complete the process within two to four weeks, though times vary based on embassy workload.
Step 1: Complete the DS-160 form
Fill out the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application at ceac.state.gov. The form takes 60 to 90 minutes. Save your application ID - you need it to schedule an interview.
Step 2: Pay the visa fee
Pay the $185 MRV application fee through the U.S. visa service website (ais.usvisa-info.com). Keep the receipt; you cannot book an interview without it.
Step 3: Schedule your interview
Create an account on the visa appointment website. Select your nearest location (London or Belfast) and choose an available date. Interview wait times appear on the U.S. Embassy website.
Step 4: Attend the interview
Arrive at the embassy 15 minutes before your appointment. Bring all required documents. The officer will ask about your travel purpose, ties to the UK, and previous U.S. visits. Interviews typically last five to ten minutes.
Step 5: Receive a decision
Most applicants receive a decision immediately after the interview. If approved, the embassy returns your passport with the visa within five to seven working days. Some applications require additional administrative processing, which can take weeks or months.
US Business Visa Fees and Costs
The US business visa cost includes a mandatory application fee. Additional costs may apply depending on your circumstances.
| Fee Type | Amount (USD) | Amount (GBP approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| MRV application fee | $185 | £145 | Non-refundable, required for all applicants |
| Visa issuance fee | $0 | £0 | No reciprocity fee for UK nationals |
| Courier return | Included | Included | Passport returned via courier |
Source: U.S. Embassy London fee schedule, December 2024. Exchange rate approximate.
The $185 fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome. If your visa is denied, you lose this payment. Applicants who reapply must pay the fee again.
Some applicants pay additional costs for:
- Passport photos (£10 to £15 at high street services)
- Document translation (if applicable)
- Travel to London or Belfast for the interview
Budget £150 to £200 for the total application cost, excluding travel to the embassy.
B1/B2 Visa Length of Stay and Duration
The B1/B2 visa has two important timeframes: visa validity and permitted length of stay. These are different concepts.
Visa Validity
UK nationals typically receive B1/B2 visas valid for ten years (U.S. Department of State reciprocity schedule, 2025). This allows multiple entries during the validity period.
However, visa validity does not determine how long you can stay in the U.S. per visit.
Length of Stay Per Visit
The Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry decides your permitted stay. The maximum B1/B2 visa length of stay is six months per visit.
CBP officers may grant shorter periods based on your stated travel purpose. A one-week business trip will likely receive a shorter admission period than a three-month family visit.
Extensions
Visitors can request an extension by filing Form I-539 with USCIS before their authorised stay expires. Extensions are not guaranteed. USCIS considers whether:
- You have maintained valid status
- You have a legitimate reason to extend
- You have not violated visa terms
Processing times for extensions can exceed six months. Plan travel dates carefully to avoid relying on an extension.
Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) vs B1/B2 Visa
UK citizens qualify for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), which allows travel to the U.S. without a visa. Understanding when ESTA is sufficient - and when a B1/B2 visa is necessary - can save time and money.
| Factor | ESTA (Visa Waiver) | B1/B2 Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum stay | 90 days | Up to 6 months |
| Cost | $21 | $185 |
| Validity | 2 years | Up to 10 years |
| Application process | Online only, no interview | DS-160 plus embassy interview |
| Processing time | Usually within 72 hours | 2 to 8 weeks |
| Extensions possible | No | Yes (via Form I-539) |
| Multiple entries | Yes | Yes |
| Eligibility | VWP countries only | All nationalities |
Source: U.S. Customs and Border Protection, November 2024; U.S. Department of State, 2025.
Choose ESTA if you:
- Need to stay 90 days or fewer
- Have no prior visa denials or immigration issues
- Prefer a quick, low-cost process
Choose a B1/B2 visa if you:
- Need to stay longer than 90 days
- Want the option to extend your stay
- Have been denied ESTA or have complex travel history
- Prefer a longer-validity travel document
Some travellers are ineligible for ESTA due to previous visits to certain countries or other factors. These individuals must apply for a B1/B2 visa regardless of trip length.
US Business Visa Interview Tips
The embassy interview is the most important step in the B1/B2 visa process. Consular officers approve or deny applications based largely on this brief conversation.
What to Expect
Interviews take place at the U.S. Embassy in London (Nine Elms) or the U.S. Consulate in Belfast. You will pass through security screening, submit biometrics (fingerprints), and wait to be called to an interview window.
The interview itself lasts five to ten minutes. The officer asks questions in English and expects direct, concise answers.
Common Questions
- What is the purpose of your trip?
- Who will you meet in the United States?
- How long do you plan to stay?
- Who is paying for your trip?
- What is your job in the UK?
- Have you visited the United States before?
- Do you have family in the United States?
Interview Guidance
Bring organised documents. Have your invitation letter, employer letter, and financial evidence ready to present if requested. Not all officers ask to see documents, but preparation demonstrates credibility.
Answer honestly and briefly. Elaborate only when asked. Contradictions or evasive answers raise concerns.
Dress professionally. Business casual attire is appropriate. First impressions matter.
Arrive early. The embassy recommends arriving 15 minutes before your appointment. Late arrivals may be turned away.
Processing Times and Appointment Booking
Visa processing times fluctuate based on embassy workload, seasonal demand, and global events. Check current wait times before planning travel.
Current Wait Times
The U.S. Embassy London publishes estimated wait times for interview appointments. As of late 2024, B1/B2 interview wait times ranged from 5 to 30 days depending on the season (U.S. Embassy London, December 2024).
These figures change frequently. Check the official appointment system for real-time availability.
Booking Your Appointment
Create an account at ais.usvisa-info.com to view available dates. The system shows appointments at both London and Belfast. Belfast sometimes offers shorter wait times.
After the interview, approved visas are typically returned within five to seven working days via courier.
Expedited Appointments
The embassy offers expedited appointments in limited circumstances:
- Medical emergencies
- Death of an immediate family member in the U.S.
- Urgent business travel (with documentation)
Expedite requests are not guaranteed. Submit requests through the visa appointment website with supporting evidence.
Administrative Processing
Some applications require additional review after the interview. This administrative processing can add weeks or months to the timeline. Applicants in technical fields or with complex travel histories face higher chances of delays.
The embassy cannot provide updates during administrative processing. Plan important travel with buffer time in case of delays.
FAQs: US Business Visa for UK Nationals
How long does a US business visa take to process?
Most UK applicants receive a decision within two to four weeks of their interview. This includes appointment wait time (5 to 30 days) plus passport return (5 to 7 working days). Applications requiring administrative processing can take significantly longer - sometimes several months.
Can I work on a B1 visa?
No. The B1 visa does not authorise employment. You cannot receive wages or salary from any U.S. employer. Permitted activities include attending meetings, negotiating contracts, and participating in conferences. Violating work restrictions can result in visa revocation and future entry bans.
What happens if my B1/B2 visa is denied?
Denied applicants receive a letter explaining the refusal reason under U.S. immigration law (typically Section 214(b)). You may reapply if circumstances change, but must pay the fee again. There is no formal appeal process for nonimmigrant visa denials.
Can I extend my B1/B2 visa while in the US?
You can request an extension by filing Form I-539 with USCIS before your authorised stay expires. Extensions are granted at USCIS discretion and can take six months or longer to process. Approval is not guaranteed.
Do I need a visa if I have ESTA?
Not for trips of 90 days or fewer. ESTA authorises travel under the Visa Waiver Program for UK citizens. However, ESTA does not allow stays beyond 90 days or extensions. For longer trips, apply for a B1/B2 visa.
What is the difference between a B1 and B2 visa?
The B1 visa covers business activities (meetings, conferences, negotiations). The B2 visa covers tourism and personal travel (holidays, visiting family, medical treatment). Most applicants receive a combined B1/B2 visa permitting both purposes.
Related US Immigration Resources
Disclaimer: For informational purposes only. Not legal advice. Immigration outcomes are determined by the U.S. government.