B-1/B-2 Business & Tourist Visa

The most common is a Section 214(b) refusal — the officer determines the applicant has immigrant intent and has not demonstrated sufficient ties to the home country. Specific reasons include: (1) weak socioeconomic ties (no stable job, no property, unmarried); (2) unclear or implausible travel purpose; (3) insufficient financial evidence; (4) past visa violations (e.g., overstay); (5) inconsistent or suspicious interview answers. A denied applicant may reapply but should present new evidence demonstrating changed circumstances.

Yes. If additional time is needed, Form I-539 may be filed with USCIS before the I-94 expires to request an extension of up to 6 months. A valid reason must be provided (e.g., medical treatment, family emergency). Frequent extension requests may raise concerns about immigrant intent. While the I-539 is pending, the applicant is considered to be in authorized stay even if the I-94 has expired. The filing fee is $370.

EVUS (Electronic Visa Update System) is a mandatory registration system for Chinese passport holders with 10-year B-1/B-2 visas. Before each trip to the U.S., the EVUS registration must be valid. Registration is valid for 2 years or until the passport expires (whichever is earlier). Registration is free and completed online (www.evus.gov). If EVUS registration expires or is denied, the traveler cannot board the flight or enter the U.S. even with a valid visa.

B-1 activities include: attending business meetings, negotiating contracts, participating in trade shows, receiving short-term training (unpaid), and handling estate or investment matters. B-2 activities include: tourism, visiting friends and family, receiving medical treatment, and attending social or charitable events. Strictly prohibited: working for a U.S. employer for compensation, enrolling in a full-time academic program, or performing paid entertainment or athletic events (which require O or P visas).

In certain circumstances, a change of status may be filed from within the U.S. — for example, B-2 to F-1 (student) or B-1/B-2 to H-1B. Important considerations: (1) the applicant must not have entered with a preconceived intent to change status (doing so may be considered visa fraud); (2) the I-539 (for student status) or I-129 (for work status) must be filed before the I-94 expires; (3) the applicant cannot begin studying or working until the change is approved. Filing at least 90 days after entry is generally recommended.