Business and Tourist visa applicants are required to demonstrate their ties to the home country. Such evidence is necessary because American law does not allow the issuance of a nonimmigrant visa to people who may be presumed to be intending immigrants. Only those who can overcome this presumption - generally, those who can prove that they have substantial social, family and economic ties to the home country and the financial resources for an expensive trip or course of studies abroad - are qualified to receive most categories of nonimmigrant visas.

It is important to note that in these visa categories, the burden of proof is on the applicant. Documents that show the applicant's income and finances, the purpose of the trip, and the arrangements to cover the cost of the trip may help to convince a consular officer of an applicant's eligibility. It is impossible to specify the exact documents that would be best to submit as each applicant's circumstances vary greatly.

Although suggested documents may assist you in your interview, the Consular Officer relies primarily on the interview to determine your eligibility for a visa, and relies less on supporting documents. Use only valid documents. Fraud or misrepresentation can result in permanent ineligibility for a nonimmigrant visa.

If business visa applicant's family (spouse and children) are also accompanying him/her on tourist visa and if this trip is expected to be a long trip, consular officer may suspect your true intentions.

You should avoid changing your status to H1B or L1, once you enter USA on business visa. If needed, you can go back to the home country, and get H1B or L1 after that. You may be in trouble if you change your status to H1B or L1, after entering US on B1.

You should avoid starting a new company, opening bank accounts, getting life insurance, etc. If really needed, consult good immigration attorney as all those things are indications of you intending to stay longer in US.

Many times business visas are issued as B-1/B-2 multiple entry. If that is the case, you can enter USA either for business purposes or for tourism purposes, even if you originally got that visa for business purposes.

• Why do you wish to go to USA?
  
  
• For how long would like to visit?
  
  
• Could you please show me the invitation letter from US?
  
  
• For how long have you worked or have run the business?
  
  
• (If you run your own business), how many employees do you have? Who will take care of the business in your absence?
  
  
• How much do you earn?
  
  
• Could you please show me your company profile (if employed) or balance sheets (if own business) and tax returns?
  
  
• What is the objective of your visit?
  
  
• What will you do on your return?
  
  

More questions related to your specific business in US may follow.