B-2 Visa Basics

Many individuals wanting to visit the United States for even a short trip must first obtain a visa. Whether you are interested in entering the country for tourism or for visiting family, a visa is the most essential requirement for your visit. Specifically, some visitors entering the country for pleasure must obtain a B-2 visitor visa. This is a temporary visa that allows a visitor to enter and remain in the United States for a short period of time.

B-2 Visa Requirements

A foreign national who wishes to enter the U.S. on a B-2 visa must first fill out the Department of State Form 156. This serves as the visitor’s visa application, which is submitted to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

In addition, the foreign national must show that he or she has no immigrant intent. The USCIS operates under the assumption that everyone seeking entry to the U.S. intends to remain here, so the visitor is responsible for disproving this assumption. This can be done by listing family members remaining in the home country, jobs held, volunteer or club affiliations, and other ties to the applicant’s home country.

How an Attorney Can Help

If you are interested in visiting the U.S. for pleasure and plan to apply for a B-2 visa, an experienced Orange County visitor visa lawyer can help. Having a lawyer’s backing throughout the application process can lend more credibility to your petition, making your application go more smoothly. An attorney can include a cover letter with your application to explain why you should be granted a visitor visa and will vouch for you if any legal issues arise.

Contact Us

For more information on the B-2 visa and applying as a visitor to the United States, contact the Orange County visitor visa attorneys of Garg & Associates, P.C., today at 949-540-6704.