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U.S. Attorney for Visa Matters
B-2 Tourist Visa

B-2 Visa for Short-Term Tourist and Medical Trips

The B-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa granted for short-term visits to the U.S. for tourism or medical purposes. It can be issued for up to 1 year and may be either single-entry or multiple-entry. This visa allows travel to the U.S. for vacations, visits to friends or relatives, or to receive medical treatment.

Who Can Obtain a B-2 Visa:

To obtain a B-2 tourist visa, the purpose of your visit must be:

- Vacation or Touring: Traveling across the U.S. to visit various cities or tourist attractions.

- Visiting Friends or Family: Visiting relatives or friends who are residing in the U.S.

- Participation in Cultural or Recreational Events: Attending various events organized by different U.S. organizations.

- Medical Treatment: Visiting the U.S. for medical purposes, such as diagnosis and/or treatment.

- Amateur Sports or Arts Activities: Participation in non-paid sports or artistic activities, such as attending competitions or performances as a hobbyist.

- Short Educational Courses: Attending brief educational courses that do not grant academic credit, such as cooking lessons or art workshops.

At the same time, a person who has received a B-2 visa is strictly prohibited from receiving full or partial education, working and receiving payment (including as a correspondent or journalist), or engaging in other paid activities. In addition, it is prohibited to become a member of the crew of aircraft or sea vessels and to seek permanent residence in the United States.
Challenges in Obtaining a B-2 Visa:

The outcome of the B-2 visa interview depends entirely on the consular officer’s decision. To improve your chances of success, you must understand what factors may help and what might cause difficulties.

Helpful Factors for a Successful Interview:

- Demonstrating strong ties to your home country is crucial. This can be supported by documentation such as:

- Stable employment. Property ownership. Family (spouse and children).

- Previous travels to other countries, especially developed nations, can also indicate your intent to return home after your trip.

For medical purposes: It’s important to provide evidence of your financial ability to pay for the treatment and show that you’ve attempted to seek medical care in your home country before opting for treatment in the U.S.

Difficulties and Red Flags:

  • Citizenship from a country with a high visa denial rate.
  • Being part of a group, such as a tourist group, sports team, theater troupe, or musical ensemble, may raise suspicions that you’re using the group to gain easier access to a visa.
  • Using a travel agency with a poor reputation at the U.S. consulate can be problematic.

Make an appointment for a consultation with a lawyer

    What is the best way to contact you?

    Matthew Morley's Legal Services:

    Matthew Morley is the only American attorney in Moscow specializing in U.S. immigration law. He holds accreditation from the U.S. Embassy in Moscow and has a strong reputation within the U.S. Consulate in Russia. He is well-versed in the nuances of U.S. immigration procedures in Russia and other CIS countries.

    Given that the B-2 visa interview and decision-making process is highly subjective, consulting an attorney can help avoid misunderstandings and increase your chances of approval. Matthew Morley can assist in gathering the necessary documentation and creating a tailored interview strategy.

    By visiting Matthew Morley’s office in Moscow for a personal consultation on your B-2 visa, you receive several advantages:

    - Communication in the same time zone and in Russian.

    - Personalized service that ensures confidentiality.

    - Convenient payment for services directly in rubles.