US Embassy Highlights Risks of Misusing B1/B2 Visas

US Embassy in India: The United States Consulate General in Mumbai has issued a cautionary advisory to Indian travelers holding B1/B2 visitor visas, warning that engaging in unauthorised employment while in the United States could lead to deportation and, in severe cases, a permanent ban on future entry.

The advisory was released on Thursday through an official post on LinkedIn, urging travelers to clearly understand B1/B2 visa rules before finalising their travel plans. The Consulate emphasised that while the visitor visa allows certain business and tourism-related activities, it does not permit employment under any circumstances.

“Know the rules before you travel. A B1/B2 visitor visa can be used to conduct business meetings and negotiate contracts, but you need a different visa to work. Unauthorized employment can lead to deportation and/or a permanent ban from entering America in the future,” the post stated.

US Embassy: Why the Advisory Matters

The warning comes amid growing scrutiny of visa compliance by US immigration authorities. Officials have repeatedly stressed that misuse of visitor visas remains one of the most common violations by foreign nationals, often resulting in serious immigration consequences.

According to immigration experts, even short-term or informal work arrangements, including unpaid roles that replace a paid position, may be treated as unauthorised employment under US law.

What Is a B1/B2 Visa?

As per the official US government guidelines, a foreign citizen planning to travel to the United States must first obtain a visa. This may be either a nonimmigrant visa for temporary visits or an immigrant visa for permanent residence.

Visitor visas fall under the nonimmigrant category and include:

• B-1 visa for business-related travel

• B-2 visa for tourism, leisure, or medical treatment

• B1/B2 visa for combined business and tourism purposes

Understanding B1/B2 visa rules is critical, as the visa strictly limits what a traveler is legally allowed to do while in the country.

US Embassy: Permitted Activities Under B1/B2 Visa Rules

Under the B-1 (Business) category, visitors are allowed to:

• Attend business meetings and consultations

• Participate in scientific, educational, or professional conferences

• Negotiate contracts

• Settle estates

Under the B-2 (Tourism) category, visitors may:

• Travel for tourism or vacation

• Visit friends and relatives

• Seek medical treatment

• Participate in social or cultural events

• Take short recreational courses not counting toward a degree

• Join amateur sports or cultural events, provided no payment is involved

Any activity outside these limits, especially employment, violates B1/B2 visa rules.

US Embassy Video Explains Consequences of Misuse

Reinforcing the message, the US Embassy in India recently shared an awareness video on X (formerly Twitter). The video features two characters, Nick and Neha, explaining the importance of following visa conditions.

The video warns that if a consular officer believes an applicant may not comply with visitor visa rules, the visa can be denied during the interview stage itself. It also highlights that overstaying or misusing a B1/B2 visa can result in permanent travel bans.

“It is your responsibility to use your visa correctly. Learn what you are and are not allowed to do when visiting the United States on a B1/B2 visitor visa. If you misuse your visa or stay longer than allowed, you could be permanently banned from future travel,” the message states.