Why Do Visa Officers Type Constantly During Interviews?

There is no specific number of days required for a person to stay outside the United States before re-entering on a B2 visitor visa (intended for tourism or medical purposes). However, there are important considerations:

1. Intent of the Visa: A B2 visa is meant for short visits. If a person stays for an extended period (e.g., 5 months) and then attempts to re-enter soon after leaving, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may question whether the individual is using the visa properly. Frequent or long stays can raise suspicions that the person is attempting to live in the U.S. without proper authorization.

2. Time Spent Outside the U.S.: While no official ""waiting period"" exists, staying outside the U.S. for a duration comparable to or longer than the prior stay (e.g., another 5 months or more) is generally recommended to demonstrate adherence to the visa's intent.

3. Border Officer's Discretion: Entry to the U.S. is ultimately at the discretion of the CBP officer. Even with a valid visa, the officer may deny entry if they believe the person is not following visa rules.

4. Documentary Evidence: If re-entering after a long stay, the individual should be prepared to provide evidence of their ties to their home country, such as employment, property ownership, or family obligations, to show they intend to leave the U.S. after their visit.

In summary, while there is no hard-and-fast rule, it’s advisable to spend a significant amount of time outside the U.S. (equal to or greater than the prior stay) before attempting to re-enter. Each entry is evaluated independently, and maintaining compliance with visa rules is essential.