In the following visa types paid employment not permitted. However, honoraria and associated incidental expenses to B-1 or B-2 visitors for "usual academic activity" lasting not longer than 9 days at a single academic institution, if offered by an institution of higher education or affiliated nonprofit entity or a nonprofit or governmental research organization are permitted. Honoraria cannot be accepted from more than 5 institutions or organizations within a six month period.

B-1 Visitor for Business

Processing time: 1-4 Weeks
Eligibility criteria: Proof of academic or business purpose of U.S. visit
Maximum length of stay in US: Up to 6 months at entry; renewable in 6-month increments
Advantages: Quick and relatively easy to obtain
Disadvantages: Strict limitations on payments from U.S. sources
Required supporting documentation: Invitation letter with dates and purpose of visit; proof of adequate funds for U.S. visit

B-2 Visitor for Pleasure

Processing time: 1-4 Weeks
Eligibility criteria: Evidence of financial support and tourist plans
Maximum length of stay in US: Up to 6 months at entry; renewable in 6-month increments
Advantages: Quick and relatively easy to obtain
Disadvantages: Strict limitations on payments from U.S. sources
Required supporting documentation: Proof of adequate funds for visit

WB (Business)*

Processing time: N/A: No Visa Issued
Eligibility criteria: Evidence of financial support, return ticket, and business plans
Maximum length of stay in US: 90 days! No extensions or change of status possible
Advantages: No need to visit U.S. Consulate
Disadvantages: No flexibility once in the U.S., i.e., cannot extend or change status
Required supporting documentation: Invitation letter with dates and purpose of visit; proof of adequate funds for U.S. visit

WT (Tourist)*

Processing time: N/A: No Visa Issued
Eligibility criteria: Evidence of financial support, return ticket, and tourist plans
Maximum length of stay in US: 90 days! No extensions or change of status possible
Advantages: No need to visit U.S. Consulate
Disadvantages: No flexibility once in the U.S., i.e., cannot extend or change status
Required supporting documentation: Proof of adequate funds for visit

*Note: These classifications fall under the Visa Waiver Pilot Program. An alien classifiable as a B-1 or B-2 visitor can be admitted without a visa, as long as certain criteria are met, under the terms of the Visa Waiver Pilot Program. Among the criteria are that the alien be classifiable as a B visitor, have a valid passport issued by a designated country, intend to visit the United States for a period not exceeding 90 days, and be in possession of a round-trip transportation ticket that is nonrefundable except in the country of issuance.