I apply for a J-1 visa, can my wife apply for a B1 visa (instead of J2) to visit me?
I'm applying for a J-1 visa to do an internship in the US for 3 months, and I want to bring my wife with me. Of course the most obvious solution is for her to apply for a J-2 visa, but the procedure for J-2 visa is much more complicated, and also much more expensive as compared to a B1 visa.
If my wife applies for a B1 visa to stay with me during my internship, i.e. 3 months, how likely is it to be accepted? My wife had a B1 visa in the past.
Best Answer
This website clearly states that "... spouses and dependents (unmarried children under the age of 21) of J-1 exchange visitors who accompany or later join the J-1 holder in the United States" must apply for J2 visa.
Even if your wife applies later for a B2 tourist visa, she may have to provide your details in the application. The consular will be able to easily see that your status is J1 and hence ask her to apply for J2 instead.
The J2 visa process is much easier when combined with your J1. Much of the documentation will be common to both of you and both applications will be processed simultaneously.
Note: From what I have read and seen (but not experienced), having a previously approved US visa doesn't affect your chances of getting a present visa. However, a previously rejected application does draw further scrutiny into your present application.
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Can J-1 and J-2 apply for visa together?
Is the J-2 holder required to arrive at the same time as the J-1 holder? Most family members choose to arrive together, but J-2 holders may apply for a visa and/or travel to the U.S. separately as long as they have a valid DS-2019 and J-2 Visa.Can I take my wife on B-1 visa?
It is advisable not to take your spouse or children while you travel to US with B1 visa. However since life is unpredictable, and if you have to take your dependents with you, you can apply for a tourist visa or a B2 visa.Can I have both B1 and J-1 visa?
You can hold the visas concurrently but can only enter on one status. Entering on a J-1 will not invalidate your B-1 visa.Can I apply for tourist visa after J-1 visa?
Application process In order to change your J-1 status to B-1 or B-2 status (Visitor for Business or Pleasure), you have to file Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, and submit all necessary documents.How to get J1 and J2 visa as a foreigner in South Korea | US Visa application process for Indians
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