Can You Work in the US on a B1/B2 Visa ?

No, you are not allowed to work or earn money in the U.S. on a B1/B2 visa, which is for business (B1) and tourism (B2) purposes. The B1/B2 visa is intended for temporary stays for business meetings, tourism, medical treatment, or similar activities, but it does not authorize you to work or engage in employment while in the U.S.

What the B1/B2 Visa Allows:

• B1 (Business Visa): You can engage in activities such as attending business meetings, conferences, or negotiating contracts.

• B2 (Tourism Visa): You can visit the U.S. for tourism, including sightseeing, visiting family or friends, or seeking medical treatment.

Prohibited Activities:

• Employment: You cannot accept a job or work for a U.S. employer while in the U.S. on a B1/B2 visa.

• Receiving payment for services: You cannot be paid for services rendered in the U.S. (even if the work is done remotely for a foreign employer).

Potential Consequences:

• If you are caught working or earning money while on a B1/B2 visa, you could face serious consequences, including:

o Revocation of your visa.

o Deportation from the U.S.

o Ban from future entry into the U.S. for a period of time.

Exceptions:

There are very limited situations where a B1/B2 visa holder may be allowed to perform certain activities, but they do not involve earning money in the U.S. Examples of exceptions include:

• Volunteering: If the work is truly unpaid and qualifies as volunteering (not replacing a paid employee), it may be permissible, but you should still exercise caution.

• Business Activities: B1 visa holders can engage in business activities, like attending meetings, negotiating contracts, or consulting, but they cannot work for a U.S. employer or get paid in the U.S.

How to Work Legally in the U.S.:

If your goal is to work in the U.S. and earn money, you need to apply for an appropriate work visa, such as an H-1B (for specialized work), L-1 (intra-company transferee), or O-1 (for individuals with extraordinary skills). These visas permit employment and income generation under specific conditions.

Conclusion:

You cannot legally work or earn money on a B1/B2 visa. If you want to work in the U.S., you must apply for the correct visa category that allows employment. Always be mindful of the restrictions of your visa to avoid any legal complications.