The visa interview is an essential step in the US B-1/B-2 visa application process, but many applicants fail at this stage because they are ill-prepared. Practicing the common B-1/B-2 US visa interview questions and answers is essential to improving your chances of success.
B-1/B-2 Visas and Their Benefits
The B-1 and B-2 visas are temporary nonimmigrant visas that allow you to visit the United States for business activities (B-1 visa) or tourism purposes (B-2 visa).
B-1 Business Visitor Visa
To apply for the B-1 visa, you must be traveling to the U.S. for a commercial or professional business activity, which may include:
- Negotiating a contract
- Consulting with business associates
- Settling an estate
- Participating in a short-term training/course
- Taking part in a business conference
B-2 Tourist Visitor Visa
The B-2 visa is for individuals traveling for:
- Tourism or vacation
- Visiting family or friends
- Medical treatment not available in your country
Duration and Extension of Stay
The B-1/B-2 visa is valid for an initial period of six months. You are expected to complete your visit within this time. However, if you need to stay longer, you can apply for an extension before your visa expires. If approved, you can stay for an additional six months. The maximum validity period for a B-1/B-2 visa is one year.
Common B-1 and B-2 Visa Interview Questions to Expect
The following are sample B-1/B-2 US visa interview questions and answers you may encounter during your B-1/B-2 visa interview.
Purpose of Travel
- What is your purpose for visiting the United States?
- How long do you plan to stay in the United States?
- Do you have family or friends in the United States?
- What will you be doing during your stay in the United States?
Economic and Social Ties to Home Country
- Do you have any ties to your home country that will guarantee your return at the end of your visit?
- Who will be traveling with you?
- Do you have any dependents waiting for your return?
- What assets do you have in your home country?
- Do you have a business in your country?
- Who will take care of your business while you are away?
Immigration History and Eligibility
- Have you ever been denied a visa before or had any immigration difficulties?
- Have you traveled outside your country to any other destination?
- Have you traveled to the United States before?
- Have you ever been deported or banned from a country?
- Do you have any criminal record?
- Are you traveling alone?
- How long do you want to remain in the United States?
- Who is sponsoring your trip? / How will you be financing your trip?
- Do you intend to remain in the United States?
Sample B-1/B-2 US Visa Interview Questions and Answer Tips to Increase Approval Chances
- US Visitor Visa Interview Answers About the Purpose of Your Visit to the US
Questions can be asked, such as “Why do you want to go to the US?” or “What made you decide to travel to the US now?”
When answering, be clear and specific about the reason for your visit. Keep your response to three sentences or fewer and avoid unnecessary details.
Sample Answer:
“I am traveling to the U.S. to attend a business conference in New Jersey, where I will be networking with professionals in my industry. The event is scheduled for three weeks, after which I will return home. My employer has approved my leave for this period.”
- How to Answer Questions About Why You Are Traveling at This Time of the Year
The interviewer may ask why you chose this specific time to travel instead of another time of the year. Your answer should be logical and relevant to your purpose of travel.
Sample Answer:
“The conference I am attending is an annual event that takes place in April. This is the only time I can attend and meet with industry professionals.”
- Have You Traveled to the United States Before?
You should answer this question with a “Yes” or “No.” If you have visited the U.S. before, provide details about your previous visit, including the reason for your visit and the duration of your stay.
- Have You Ever Extended Your Stay or Been Deported?
If you overstayed a visa, were deported, or had any immigration violations, be honest. The officer already has access to this information, so being dishonest may hurt your application.
Sample Answer:
“I overstayed my visa by one week during my last visit due to unforeseen medical treatment. However, I applied for an extension, and I have no history of deportation.”
- Are You Traveling Alone?
The interviewer may want to know if you are traveling alone or with company. Provide enough details about your trip.
Sample Answer:
“Yes, I am traveling alone because my spouse and child have work and school commitments that prevent them from joining me.”
- How Long Will You Remain in the United States?
Mention the exact duration of your stay. If your visit is longer than six months, be prepared to explain why. Be reasonable about the length of your visit. Your lifestyle and circumstances should align with your intended duration, or your visa might be denied.
Sample Answer:
“I plan to stay for two months to complete my business meetings and visit my relatives before returning home.”
- How to Answer Questions About Your Sponsor
If someone else is financing your trip, the interviewer will ask about your sponsor’s financial stability and relationship with you.
Sample Answer:
“My trip is being sponsored by my employer, ABC Ltd., covering my flight, accommodation, and daily expenses. My company has provided an official letter affirming this.”
- Who Will Take Care of Your Business While You Are Away?
If you own a business, you must explain who will manage it during your absence.
Sample Answer:
“I have a business partner who will oversee daily operations while I am away. They are authorized to make decisions in my absence.”
Practice common B-1/B-2 US visa interview questions and answers to gain confidence and ace the interview. Visit ImmigrationQuestion.com to connect with a licensed immigration attorney to help you prepare for the B-1/B-2 US visa interview.
