Doing Business and Working Temporarily in the United States

Each year hundreds of thousands of people travel to the United States to do business and work temporarily. We welcome the international exchange of commerce, the contribution of temporary workers to our society, and cultural, educational and training programs in the U.S.

The U.S. government made some changes in visa procedures after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. Visa applications are evaluated very carefully. Applicants often have additional security procedures. Visa applications take more time now than in the past. However, after an initial period of adjustment, improved and automated procedures have considerably sped up visa clearance procedures.

The United States is a free and open society. We welcome citizens from around the world who want to conduct legitimate business and work temporarily here. We are dedicated to protecting their safety, keeping our doors open to them, and fostering the efficient transaction of commerce.

Applying for a Business Visa

American immigration law assumes that all people who come to the United States will stay. That is, they are intending immigrants. If you want to qualify for a business visa, you must show the following:

The purpose of your trip is for business
You plan to stay for a specific, limited period of time
You have social and economic ties outside the United States and you will return abroad at the end of your visit.

This is what you must do when you apply for a business visa:

Complete and sign the required application forms
Show your business-related work in the United States
Bring evidence that your visit is temporary and that you will leave the United States after your legally authorized stay; and
Undergo security clearance procedures

All visa applicants must have these things:

Application Form DS-156
Current, valid passport or travel document
Photograph. Requirements are strict for photograph size, type and quality. Please check with your nearest consulate for specifications before you get your picture taken.
Application fees. All applicants must pay the application fee. Some applicants, according to nationality and type of visa, must also pay an issuance fee.
Evidence of funds to cover expenses in the United States
Evidence of compelling social and economic ties abroad

For men between 16 and 45 years of age

Supplemental visa application Form DS-157

Contact your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for specific information on:

How to pay fees
How to get an appointment for an interview
How to get application forms
The latest information on visa requirements

Consular officers do security checks for all visa applicants. They do special security clearances for some applicants as required by law. These clearances may take several weeks or longer. Please plan for the possibility of a delay in the issuance of a visa. Make your visa application well in advance of your intended travel.