To travel to the US for a temporary stay as a tourist, you will first need to ensure you have the required permission to enter the country.

Nationals of Visa Waiver Countries, including the UK, France, Japan and Germany, may be eligible for visa-free, short-term entry to the US. The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) permits entry to the US for up to 90 days for business or tourist purposes, or for transit, without having to apply for a US visa, provided the individual has ESTA authorization.

If you are not eligible to travel visa-free, for example if you are not a VWP national, or if your ESTA application is rejected, or if you plan to stay in the US for longer than 90 days, you will need to consider the alternative visa options available to you.

The B2 visa is the dedicated route for tourists. It is important to ensure you are applying for the most appropriate visa. If you undertake activity outside of those permitted under your visa, you will be in breach of your visa conditions, which could impact future US immigration applications.

 

Tourist visa or ESTA?

 

As a potential visitor to the United States, you may be wondering whether to apply for a tourist visa or an ESTA. Both allow you to enter the US temporarily, but the eligibility requirements and application processes differ.

A B-2 tourist visa is issued by a US embassy or consulate and allows you to stay for up to six months at a time. It’s often used by travelers who plan longer visits, have family in the US or may need more flexibility with travel dates. The process typically involves submitting Form DS-160, paying a visa application fee, and attending an in-person interview. Once approved, a tourist visa is often valid for multiple entries over several years.

In contrast, the ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is only available to citizens of countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program. If eligible, you can apply online without an interview. An approved ESTA permits stays of up to 90 days per visit and is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. It’s ideal for short trips, such as vacations, business meetings or family visits.

The choice depends on your eligibility, how long you plan to stay and how often you expect to visit.

 

What is the US tourist visa?

 

A US tourist visa, officially known as a B-2 visa, allows foreign nationals to travel to the United States temporarily for leisure, visiting family and friends, or seeking medical treatment. It is one of the most commonly issued nonimmigrant visas and grants individuals the opportunity to experience the US, but requires the visa holder to leave country at the end of their visit.

A tourist visa generally allows multiple entries and is valid for up to 10 years, though the length of stay on each visit is usually limited to six months or less, as determined by US Customs and Border Protection.

The wider B visa category comprises:

 

• B-1 visa – business purposes
• B-2 visa – leisure, tourism or medical treatment
• B-1/B-2 visa – a combination of the two visa categories for temporary visitors on business- and tourism-related travel to the US.

 

The B-2 visa permits non-business purposes, ie one or a combination of the following activities:

 

• Tourism
• Vacation (holiday)
• Visit with friends or relatives
• Medical treatment
• Participation in social events hosted by fraternal, social, or service organizations
• Participation by amateurs in musical, sports, or similar events or contests, if not being paid for participating
• Enrolment in a short recreational course of study, not for credit toward a degree (for example, a two-day cooking class while on vacation)

 

The B-2 visa can also be used for individuals looking to accompany a B-1 visa holder. For example, a wife travels on a B-1/B-2 combination visa to attend a work conference, and is accompanied by her husband and children (under 18 years old) on B-2 visas, as they plan to have a week’s family vacation while in the US.

In many cases, the Embassy will progress the visitor visa applications on the basis of a combined B1/B2 visa, which means you will be able to combine activities allowable under both categories. To avoid issues, you should divulge your planned activities during your visa interview so the adjudicator has a clear understanding of your plans.

B visas are generally issued for a period of six months, but an additional extension of 6 months, for a maximum stay of up to 12 months in total, can be granted based on USCIS approval.

 

B-2 tourist visa excluded activities

 

As well as permissible activities, you should also be aware that there are some activities which are not permitted under the B visa. These include:

 

• Paid employment
• Studying
• Paid performances, or any professional performance before a paying audience
• Arrival as a crewmember on a ship or aircraft
• Work as foreign press, radio, film, journalists, and other information media
• Permanent residence in the United States

 

In these instances, take legal advice on the alternative visa options that may be available for you.

 

US tourist visa requirements

 

Tourist visa applicants must demonstrate their intent to visit the US for a limited period, show they have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay, and provide evidence of strong ties to their home country that ensure their return after the trip.

You must also show that you have enough financial resources to support yourself during your trip. This could include bank statements, pay stubs, or a letter from a sponsor who will cover your expenses. In addition, you’ll need a valid passport and an application form (Form DS-160) completed and submitted online.

 

Making a tourist visa application

 

The specific process to apply for a B-2 tourist visa will depend on the Embassy or Consulate where you make your application.

Waiting and processing times also vary by location, and also by time of year and visa category, so it is important to submit your application well in advance of your intended travel date.

In general, the application process will require you to complete Form DS-160 online and upload a photograph of yourself. You will also need to schedule an interview at the consular office where you filed your petition. Minors under the age of 13 and those over the age of 80 are generally not required to attend an interview.

You should print off, sign and date the completed form and bring it with you to your interview.

You should come to the interview prepared and having collated supporting documentation to evidence your eligibility. You may be asked by the adjudicator to provide the following:

 

• Proof of payment for the visa application
• Interview appointment letter
• Online Nonimmigrant Visa application form (DS-160) confirmation page
• Valid passport
• 2″ x 2″ colour photo with white background, taken within the last six months prior to your application
• Evidence of your immigration status in your country of residence
• Any previous US visas from past visits
• Details of any criminal convictions
• Documentation relating to any previous issues of overstaying in the US or deportation
• Proof of financial funds to maintain yourself during your stay
• Travel itinerary and details of travel plans and accommodation

 

From your application form and interview, the Consulate will be looking for evidence that you will leave the US at the end of your permitted stay, by assessing proof of your ties to your country of residence. So in addition to the mandatory documents, you can also bring supporting documentation showing your eligibility and suitability for a B-2 visa:

 

• Proof of income from past 3 months
• Proof of continuing employment in your country of residence on your return from the US
• Travel itinerary
• Proof of residency status for US host(s)
• All of your expired passports, showing visas previously issued from other countries

 

Consular officers also have powers to request details of applicants’ social media handles from the past five years and additional biographical information for the last 15 years.

 

Changing from a tourist visa in the US

 

Once you have entered the US on a tourist visa such as the B-2 tourist visa, it will not be possible to apply to change your status during your stay, for example, by applying for an employment visa or a Green Card. The visitor visa is intended only for temporary leave to enter, with a requirement to leave the US before visa expiry.

Tourist visas (or the Visa Waiver Program) can not be used as a shortcut to permanent residency – this could constitute visa fraud. If you enter the US on a tourist visa, and during your stay get married and apply to adjust your status to a spouse visa, you should expect to come under USCIS scrutiny.

The reasoning is that you may not have been granted the initial tourist visa if you had declared during your application that you were engaged or intending to marry a US citizen while in the US and planning to make a subsequent change of status application in-country. Making such an application to adjust your while in the US on a tourist visa may result in an allegation of visa fraud, on the grounds of misrepresenting the reasons for requiring your tourist visa or concealing facts that would have disqualified you from obtaining the tourist visa.

Visa fraud and misuse of the tourist visa can have significant consequences on your future immigration rights, such as your ability to qualify for future US visas or for example a marriage-based Green Card.

Full disclosure is paramount to any USCIS application. If you have any questions about your plans while in the US and how these will impact your immigration options, take advice before you make an application.

 

Extending your B-2 tourist visa

 

While in the US, and before your visa expires, you may be able to extend your B-2 tourist visa. The process involves:

 

• Completing and submitting form I-539
• Providing supporting documentation that shows your stay will be temporary, including a written statement explaining why you are requesting an extension.
• Specifying when you plan to leave, including the date and time of your intended departure.
• Explaining the effect your extension will have on your work / business / employment and residency.
• Evidencing your ability to fund your extended visit.
• Providing your original Form I-94.
• Paying the application fee.

 

If your visa has expired, you may be able to apply for ‘extraordinary circumstances’ where you can prove:

 

• A medical emergency prevented you from applying for an extension in time.
• Someone stole your passport and other travel documents, or you lost them.
• You attempted to file a request for an extension but it was returned to you.

 

Again, seek professional advice if you are concerned about your status or making a USCIS application.

 

Need assistance?

 

NNU Immigration are US attorneys specializing solely in US immigration applications. If you have a question about submitting a USCIS application or visa options for a temporary visit to the US including the B-2 and B-1 visas, contact NNU Immigration.

 

US tourist visa requirements FAQs

 

Who needs a US tourist visa?

Anyone traveling to the United States temporarily for tourism, leisure, or visiting family and friends who is not eligible for visa-free travel must obtain a US tourist visa (B-2 visa).

 

What are the requirements for tourist visa in USA?

To apply for a US tourist visa, you will need to complete an online form, attend a visa interview and provide details of your trip and evidence of your intention to leave the US before the end of your visa.

 

How much bank balance is required for US tourist visa?

You will need to show you have enough funds to cover the cost of your trip and planned activities while in the US.

 

Can I get a tourist visa for US from UK?

The US B1/B2 tourist visa from the UK. You will need to attend a visa interview in either London or Belfast.

 

How much is a US tourist visa from UK?

The MRV application fee for the US visitor visa is $185, while the ESTA application for visa-free travel for eligible visitors is $21.

 

How long is a US tourist visa valid?

Typically, a US tourist visa is valid for up to 10 years, allowing multiple entries, although the length of stay per visit is usually limited to six months or less as determined by the immigration officer.

 

What documents do I need to apply for a US tourist visa?

You will generally need a valid passport, DS-160 application confirmation, visa fee receipt, recent photograph, proof of financial support, travel itinerary, and evidence of ties to your home country.

 

Is an interview required for a US tourist visa?

Most applicants between the ages of 14 and 79 must attend a personal interview at the US embassy or consulate as part of the application process.

 

How long does it take to process a US tourist visa?

Processing times vary by location, but typically it takes a few weeks from interview to decision. It’s advisable to apply well ahead of your planned travel dates.

 

Can I extend my stay on a US tourist visa?

You may apply to extend your stay by filing Form I-539 with USCIS before your authorized stay expires. Approval is discretionary and not guaranteed.

 

Do I need travel insurance for a US tourist visa?

Travel insurance is not a mandatory requirement for a US tourist visa, but it is highly recommended to cover unexpected medical expenses and travel disruptions.

 

Can I study or work with a US tourist visa?

The B-2 tourist visa does not permit employment or formal studies in the United States. Separate visas are required

 

Glossary

 

Term	Definition
B-2 Visa	A visitor visa issued to individuals traveling temporarily to the United States for tourism, leisure, or visiting family and friends.
Form DS-160	The online nonimmigrant visa application form required for applying for a US tourist visa.
MRV Fee	Machine Readable Visa fee, a non-refundable fee required to schedule a visa interview appointment at a US embassy or consulate.
Consular Interview	An in-person interview at a US embassy or consulate where a consular officer assesses visa eligibility.
I-94 Record	An electronic or paper document issued by US Customs and Border Protection indicating the authorized length of stay upon entry.
USCIS	US Citizenship and Immigration Services, the agency responsible for processing immigration-related applications such as visa extensions.
Form I-539	The application form used to request an extension or change of nonimmigrant status while in the United States.
Nonimmigrant Visa	A visa category intended for temporary visitors to the United States for purposes such as tourism, business, study, or temporary employment.
Visa Waiver Program (VWP)	A program that allows citizens of participating countries to enter the United States for up to 90 days without a visa, using an approved ESTA authorization.
ESTA	Electronic System for Travel Authorization, required for citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries traveling to the United States without a visa.