Documents for Applying for a B1 Visa to the United States

Below is a detailed list of the necessary documentation to submit a B-1 visa application (business visitors) for the United States. Applying for a B1 visa may seem simple, but from experience, we can say that the B1 visa application is the most delicate to prepare. The reason is that the B1 visa is not based on objective and indisputable elements. Analyzing the application involves significant areas of subjectivity that must be overcome through:

• Submitting a formally perfect application, and 
• Providing all necessary supporting documents to confirm the circumstances of the trip to America.

Mandatory Documents:

DS-160 Form Confirmation Page

• Completed electronic non-immigrant visa application form (DS-160 Form).
• Clearly printed confirmation page with barcode.

Valid Passport

• Must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay in the United States.
• Must have at least one blank page for the visa stamp.

Passport-sized Photo

• A recent color photo (taken within the last six months).
• Dimensions according to official U.S. specifications (5x5 cm or 2x2 inches; uniform white background)

Printout of the interview appointment confirmation at the embassy or consulate.

Receipt of payment of consular fees.
 

Supporting Documentation:

Applicants are strongly advised to present additional supporting documents that verify the purpose of the trip, financial capability, and strong ties to France.

Documents proving the purpose of the trip:

Invitation letter from a host company/organization in the United States
Clear indication of the purpose of the visit, expected duration, and specification of the entity or company covering any expenses.

Letter from the employer
Description of the applicant's role, duration of employment, salary, detailed reasons for the trip, and assurance of return to work after the stay.

Documents related to business events like conference registrations, event invitations, or trade show participation accreditations.
 

Recommended Additional Documents (if applicable)

Financial and Economic Documentation:

• Proof of financial capability
• Documentation of any potential sponsor

Proof of strong ties to the home country:

• Recent bank statements showing sufficient resources to cover all travel expenses.
• Credit card statements, if applicable.
• Attestations of funding or sponsorships from the employer or other entities.
• Employment Documentation
  Employment contract or recent pay stubs proving stable and continuous employment.
• Property Ownership
  Documents proving real estate ownership, vehicle registrations, or other significant assets.
• Family Ties
• Marriage certificates, children's birth certificates, or documents proving the presence of close relatives residing in the home country.
• Previous International Travel
• Documents of previous foreign travels, including any prior visas.
• Travel Itinerary
• Provisional flight and hotel reservations (preferably refundable until visa approval).
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Documents of professional qualifications and experience related to the purpose of the business trip.
• It is highly recommended to bring to the interview at the American consulate the original documentation, accompanied by photocopies to be provided upon request by consular staff.

All documents not originally written in English must be accompanied by certified translations.

Always contact ExportUSA to verify updated requirements as additional documents may be required based on specific circumstances or local regulations.