Can I renew my B1/B2 visa before it expires? What do I have to do to ensure that my access to the US is not blocked on account of an expired tourist visa?
For starters, you need to know that you don’t have to wait until your visa expires before applying for a new one. The Department of State has made provisions for visa renewals through their embassies and consulates all over the world. Visa renewal applications are filed at these centers in the applicant’s home country via the following steps.
Visa renewal Process
Visa Form Completion: The completion of the application form is an important first step in the process. The form contains data sections that must contain accurate information about the applicant, and Lastly, it should be signed to make the information valid.
Digital Photo: A digital photo taken not later than 180 days before use. Only photos on a white background will be accepted, and yours should meet other visa photo requirements.
Application Fee: The application fee should be paid to the embassy, and the receipt payment should be attached to the application as proof.
Interviews are only required for visa renewals if the embassy asks for your presence.
How Long Does Visa Processing Take?
Visas take quite some time to process, but the time depends on the embassy and the volume of applications they are handling at the moment. In recent years US embassies have faced disruptions caused by backlogs of unprocessed visas. With such a huge volume of applications coming in every year, it creates a chaotic situation and extended waiting times to get visa interview dates. To ensure the situation, contact the embassy in your country to know the estimated waiting time.
US B1 B2 Visa Cost
The US B1 B2 visa renewal cost is the same as the application for a new one which is $160.
This fee is paid to try the embassy or consulate.
Conditions For US B1 B2 Renewal
Only persons who qualify for renewal will get it provides they meet the following conditions.
Visa Expiration: Your current visa has yet to expire or expire not later than 12 months ago.
Visa Refusal: Your Visa application was not rejected previously or refused entry into the US.
Overstaying: You have not overstayed in the US at any time during your previous trip to the US.
Restricted Passport: Your passport was not restricted by the Department of State for any reason.
Laws: You are it found wanting nor accused of breaking any law during your visit to the US
Persons on the crime watchlist will not be issued a new visa by the embassy as they will be tagged w security risks by the authorities.
Where You Renew A B1 B2 Visa?
If you wish to renew your B1 B2 visa, you must use the services of the US embassy in your country, as renewals cannot be done from within the United States. Some embassies work through licensed agents, while others will ask that you mail your documents to them using a courier service.
After the visa is ready, the embassy will mail it back to your address along with your passport.
Can I Get My Passport While The Passport Is Being Processed?
Your application for renewal cannot be processed if your passport is unavailable. During the process, your passport will be with the embassy until it is completed. If you plan to apply for a different visa to another country, you may apply for a second passport that is permissible in your country or apply for the visas at different times. If you can spread the application timeline wife apart by several months, then do so.
What Can You Do With A B1 and B2 Visa?
The B1 and B2 visas are nonimmigrant visas but designed for different purposes. While the B1 visa is for business trips to the US, B2 is for tourism.
You can use a B1 visa to engage clients, hold meetings, attend conferences and fairs, settle contracts and estates, or engage in any non commercial activities that will not get you direct financial remuneration.
B2 is for leisure and tourism. You can use it to visit family and friends, spend your holiday in the US, attend festivals, sports, and musical events, or tour the country.
This visa is very flexible, allowing you to do different things in the country.
B1 and B2 visas are mostly issued as multiple entry visas, so you have no limit to the number of times you can visit the United States, provided to obey the law.
Can I renew my US b1 b2 visa before it expires? Yes, you can renew it but apply early enough to avoid long waiting times.
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