We are finding the B-1 visa to be less secure for many visitors who are coming for longer stays. Please consider getting a J-1 visa if you will be here for more than 3 weeks and plan to travel on a B-1 visa.
Immigration Officials have been given increased discretion when determining the period of stay in the U.S. for the W- and B- categories. We have been advised that proof of the length of your visit may be required to receive permission to stay in the U.S. in excess of 30 days regardless of the longer period actually allowed. Please bring your invitation letter with you so that you may establish your visit dates should it be necessary to do so.
THIS VISA MAY NOT BE USED FOR STAYS IN EXCESS OF 6 MONTHS AND IS NOT RECOMMENDED IF YOU WILL BE VACATIONING OR COMING WITH CHILDREN WHO WILL NEED TO ATTEND SCHOOL IN THE U.S. Please click on the J-1 tab for more information.
When you receive this visa from the U.S. Embassy or Consulate, you may notice that it says B1/B2. This allows you to enter the U.S. either for business (B-1) or as a tourist (B-2), but it is only when you enter the U.S. that your actual status is determined. At that time, the U.S. Immigration Official marks on the I-94 card or passport that they give to you either B-1 or B-2--not a combination. It is this status that determines our ability to reimburse you for your travel and local expenses. You must be absolutely certain that Immigration has indicated on your I-94 card or passport that you have been admitted into the U.S. in the B-1 status because you will not be able to receive financial reimbursement for more than 9 days if you have a B-2 status marked on your I-94 card or passport.
The Institute is required to send a photocopy of each I-94 card and passport to the University's Accounting Office. If your card or passport indicates a B-2 status, the University will not be able to reimburse you for more than 9 days. I am sorry to say that it is your responsibility to make certain that the status/admission category you have been granted is correct. I cannot emphasize enough how important it is for you to double-check what U.S. Immigration writes on your I-94 card or passport before you accept it.
Please contact the Visa Specialist if you have any questions.