Foreign nationals traveling to the United States for tourism, family visits, or short-term business activities typically enter under one of the visitor categories below.
B-2 Visitor for Pleasure
The B-2 classification covers tourism, vacation, visits with family or friends, and medical treatment.
B-1 Business Visitor
The B-1 classification permits limited business-related activities such as consulting with business associates, attending conferences or conventions, negotiating contracts, and settling an estate. B-1 status does not permit local employment or the receipt of a salary from a U.S. source.
Visa Waiver Program / ESTA
Citizens of participating countries may be eligible to travel to the U.S. for short business or tourist visits of up to 90 days without a visa, through the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), after obtaining approval through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).
Canadian Visitors
Canadian citizens are generally visa-exempt for short B-1/B-2 visits and may be admitted directly at a port of entry, though they remain subject to the same underlying eligibility rules as other visitors.
For guidance tailored to your specific circumstances, contact Caruso Law to schedule a consultation.
