US IMMIGRATION - B-1 : DOING BUSINESS IN THE US
Generally, nationals of countries participating in the Visa
Waiver Program (VWP) need not obtain a visa to perform regular business
activities in the US. VWP participants include, among others, most Western
European countries. However, even if you are a national of a VWP country, you
should get a visa if
-
Your business trip to the US will last for more than 90 days
(you MUST get a visa)
-
You will perform actual work in the US (you MUST get a visa)
-
You go on frequent and/or relatively long business trips to
the US
Find out if you qualify here.
Doing Business in the US
Doing business means engaging in business activities other than
the performance of skilled or unskilled labour. Gainful employment is not
allowed and requires a work visa. Examples of doing business include
negotiating contracts, consultations with business associates, participation in
seminars or conventions, and undertaking independent research. This can be a
grey area and if in doubt please contact us for more information.
How to Obtain a B-1 Visa
Each case must be well documented with supporting evidence
proving that all legal requirements have been met. The relevant US Consulate or
Embassy will then adjudicate the visa application. The visa may be issued for
up to 10 years, but the visa holder will normally only be admitted to the US
for 6 months at a time. Dependents of the visa holder (spouses and children)
cannot obtain dependent visas, but may be able to get B-2 visas. Please contact
us for more information regarding dependents.
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