Can I use a B1 Visa for Tourism?

[annejessup]

Hello,

I was issued a 7-year B1 visa 3 years ago for business (I am a seafarer). Previously I had held a B1/B2 which expired back in 2020. My question is, can a B1 only visa (It is not B1/B2) be used to enter the USA for tourism? The travel agent who helped organise the visa's seems to think that customs would stamp me in on a B2 on arrival.
Any opinion is appreciated!

undertale yellow

[Dennisleon]

Hello,

I was issued a 7-year B1 visa 3 years ago for business (I am a seafarer). Previously I had held a B1/B2 which expired back in 2020. My question is, can a B1 only visa (It is not B1/B2) be used to enter the USA for tourism? The travel agent who helped organise the visa's seems to think that customs would stamp me in on a B2 on arrival.
Any opinion is appreciated!

Hello,

Here's the breakdown of your situation and the answer to your question:

Your Visas:

Current B1 Visa (7 years): Issued 3 years ago specifically for business purposes (as a seafarer).
Previous B1/B2 Visa (expired): Expired in 2020 and allowed entry for both business (B1) and tourism (B2).
Can You Use B1 Visa for Tourism?

Technically, a B1 visa is only for business purposes. However, there's a gray area regarding incidental tourism.

Customs Officer Discretion: Ultimately, the customs officer at the port of entry decides whether to allow you in for tourism with a B1 visa.
Focus on Business Purpose: When questioned by customs, it's crucial to clearly explain your primary reason for entering the US is business-related (as a seafarer).
Limited Tourism: You can mention minimal planned tourist activities, but avoid making them the main focus of your trip.
Travel Agent's Opinion:

Your travel agent might be partially right. Sometimes, upon arrival, customs officers might "stamp you in" with a B2 status to reflect your short-term tourism activities along with your business visit. However, this is not guaranteed and depends on the officer's discretion.

Recommendations:

Consult Official Sources: For the most reliable information, check the US Department of State travel website or contact the US embassy/consulate in your country.
Consider Applying for B2 Visa: If you plan significant tourism activities, applying for a B2 visa specifically for tourism might be a safer option to avoid any issues at customs.

I hope the information may help you.

[thomas642daniel]

Hello,

I was issued a 7-year B1 visa 3 years ago for business (I am a seafarer). Previously I had held a B1/B2 which expired back in 2020. My question is, can a B1 only visa (It is not B1/B2) be used to enter the USA for tourism? The travel agent who helped organise the visa's seems to think that customs would stamp me in on a B2 on arrival.
Any opinion is appreciated!

undertale yellow

Hello,

You should be able to enter the U.S. on a B1 visa, but it's important to note that a B1 visa is specifically for business purposes. If you wish to enter the U.S. for tourism, the appropriate visa would be a B2 visa. However, upon arrival, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers have the discretion to stamp your entry as a B2 if they determine your visit aligns with tourism activities. This means that while your B1 visa is technically for business, you might still be permitted to engage in tourism, but it’s advisable to be clear about your intentions when speaking with the CBP officer. If you plan to primarily engage in tourism activities, it might be beneficial to apply for a B2 visa, as this would clearly reflect your purpose for travel. Always ensure CoveredCalifornia you have the proper documentation and be prepared to explain your travel intentions upon arrival.

[BartMills]

Hello,

I was issued a 7-year B1 visa 3 years ago for business (I am a seafarer). Previously I had held a B1/B2 which expired back in 2020. My question is, can a B1 only visa (It is not B1/B2) be used to enter the USA for tourism? The travel agent who helped organise the visa's seems to think that customs would stamp me in on a B2 on arrival.
Any opinion is appreciated!

undertale yellow

Your knowledge is vast, worth learning.

[SheldonGrant]

In some rare cases, CBP officers may stamp your B1 visa with B2 status if they believe your purpose is tourism. However, this is their decision and may vary from employee to employee. To avoid problems, it is generally recommended that you obtain a B1/B2 visa if you intend to enter the United States for both business and pleasure purposes.

Tiny Fishing