Why You Should Hire a Trusted and Highly Skilled B Visa Lawyer

Are you looking to travel for business? The B-1 visa might be the best option for you. Business visas permit individuals to live temporarily in the U.S. for professional or commercial activities related to their employment abroad. Consulting with business associates, negotiating contracts, settling estates, and attending conventions or conferences are just a few of the perks. This article outlines what applicants should know about B-1 work visas and when to reach out for legal immigration help.

Do I Qualify for A B-1 Visa?

Suppose you need to travel to the U.S. in the next few months. In that case, a B visa lawyer can ease the stress associated with answering your questions, providing free consultation, and reviewing your application. The most important part of the immigration process is determining eligibility. You are required to show U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS) the following:

• That you plan to travel to the U.S. for legitimate business
• Will reside here temporarily (for a limited time)
• Have the financial means to cover living expenses and travel
• Live outside of the U.S. with ties to your native country to demonstrate you will be returning when the visa expires
• Are not inadmissible for committing a crime, unlawfully living with family, or other immigration-related concerns

Keep in mind that there will be supplemental forms for you to submit when you apply for a B-1 visa at the consulate or embassy abroad and once you get to the U.S. border. For example, applicants typically bring a letter verifying they work at a foreign company and were requested to take a business trip. But unlike a green card, you will be operating with “non-immigrant intent” – meaning your stay will be brief with no opportunity to adjust your status.

Business Activities Permitted with the B-1 Visa

Before you arrive, it’s best to check with your company policies so that your salary continues to be paid by your employer abroad. Accepting any form of payment in the U.S. is illegal, as B-1 visa holders are not authorized to work here. It might also jeopardize your chances of immigrating in the future. Read on for a list of temporary business activities that you are permitted to participate in:

• Attending meetings, conferences, or conventions
• Engaging in business litigation – depositions or testifying at a trial
• Giving a presentation or attending lectures and speaking engagements
• Negotiating leases, contracts, or estates
• Purchasing U.S. materials and goods for commerce abroad
• Independent research, marketing
• Participating in educational, business, or other professional seminars

If Working is Forbidden, Are Job Interviews Allowed?

All non-immigrants should know that taking academic courses or working “off the books” on a B-1 visa is a deportable offense. However, there is a bit of leeway for job interviews. As long as the consular or embassy official knows the purpose of your visit is to consult with business associates, there will be little to no consequences. In this case, try not to be as detailed in your response if you plan on interviewing for employment. Either way, you must have supporting evidence showing you would return to your country.

Is It Hard to Get a B-1 Visa?

Most people question if the process of getting a B-1 visa is challenging. Though the answer varies per client, obtaining a visa is easy if you qualify. The key is to confidently present your case at the consulate by stating the purpose of travel, the number of days you’ll be away, employment role, among other details. For more information, you can schedule a consultation with us at Grey Law.

About Grey Immigration

At Grey Immigration, the values of integrity, honesty, commitment, and results are at the foundation of our firm.

David Grey provides experienced representation to safeguard your rights through the immigration process. Whether it is advice, assistance with visa applications, or resolving an issue stalling your citizenship, we are here to help.

COVID-19 has drastically impacted citizenship in the U.S. In the past year, we have adjusted and acted accordingly based on new restrictions and regulations. Our firm optimizes individual skills to produce superior results for all clients. For a free case review, give us a call at 323-622-1764 or email info@greylaw.com.