The US B1/B2 visitor visa is the most common non-immigrant visa for travelling to the United States. The B1 category covers business visits such as meetings, conferences, and contract negotiations, while B2 covers tourism, holidays, medical treatment, and visiting family or friends.
Most applicants receive a combined B1/B2 visa, which is typically issued for 10 years with multiple entry privileges. However, each stay is limited to a maximum of 6 months as determined by the Customs and Border Protection officer at the port of entry.
Citizens of 41 countries (including the UK) can travel to the USA without a traditional visa under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Instead, you apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).
The DS-160 is the online non-immigrant visa application form required for all US visa applicants. It collects biographical data, travel plans, employment history, and security-related information. The form must be completed accurately — any errors or inconsistencies can lead to delays or refusals.
Our advisers guide you through every section of the DS-160, ensuring your answers are consistent with your supporting documents and present your case in the strongest possible light for the consular interview.
Be ready to explain exactly why you're visiting, where you'll stay, and when you'll return
Bank statements, payslips, or tax returns showing you can fund your trip
Employment letter, property documents, family responsibilities proving you'll return
Hotel bookings, flight reservations, and a day-by-day plan of activities
From your US host with their status, address, and relationship to you
A B1 visa is for business visitors (meetings, conferences, negotiations), while a B2 visa is for tourism, holidays, visiting family, or medical treatment. Most applicants receive a combined B1/B2 visa that covers both purposes.
UK citizens can travel to the USA under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) using an approved ESTA. This allows stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business without a traditional visa. You must apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before travel.
Processing times vary by embassy and time of year. Typically, you should expect 2-4 weeks from your interview date. During peak seasons (summer, holidays), wait times for interview appointments can be several weeks longer.
The consular officer will ask about your travel plans, ties to your home country, financial situation, and purpose of visit. Be honest, concise, and bring all supporting documents. The interview usually lasts 3-5 minutes.
No. B1/B2 visas and ESTA do not allow employment in the USA. You can attend business meetings and conferences but cannot be employed or receive payment from a US source.
You can reapply at any time, but you must demonstrate that your circumstances have changed or provide additional evidence addressing the refusal reasons. The most common refusal is under Section 214(b) — failure to prove you’ll return home.
Get expert guidance on your B1/B2 visa application or ESTA.
