US Visitor Visa (B-1/B-2) from Pakistan 2026: Business & Tourism Guide

The United States remains the number-one dream destination for travellers from Pakistan — for business, tourism and visiting family. The visa you need is the B-1/B-2 visitor visa, a combined non-immigrant visa that covers both business visits and tourism. Here is a clear, up-to-date guide to how it works and how to give yourself the best chance of success.

B-1 vs B-2: which do you need?

The two categories are almost always issued together as a single B-1/B-2 visa, but they cover different purposes. The B-1 (business) visa is for attending meetings, conferences, trade shows, contract negotiations or short professional training — not for taking up employment. The B-2 (tourism) visa is for holidays, sightseeing, visiting family and friends, or medical treatment. Because most travellers do a bit of both over time, the combined B-1/B-2 is what the vast majority of applicants receive.

The golden rule: non-immigrant intent

Every US visitor-visa decision turns on one principle in US law known as Section 214(b): the officer assumes you intend to immigrate unless you prove otherwise. Your job at the interview is to show you are a genuine visitor with strong ties to Pakistan — a stable job or business, family, and property — and every reason to return. This, far more than any single document, decides your application.

How to apply, step by step

The US process is interview-based and entirely self-managed online. In outline:

• Complete the DS-160 form online
• Pay the MRV application fee
• Create a profile on ustraveldocs.com
• Book your interview appointment
• Attend the visa interview
• Collect your passport after approval

You will fill out the DS-160 at ceac.state.gov, pay the fee, and then schedule an interview at the US Embassy in Islamabad or the US Consulate General in Karachi. At the interview, a consular officer asks a few focused questions about your trip, your ties and your finances, and makes the decision — often the same day.

Fees and wait times

The MRV (application) fee is US$185, valid for 365 days once paid. When granted, a B-1/B-2 for Pakistani nationals is frequently issued as a multiple-entry visa valid for several years, with each stay decided at the airport (commonly up to six months). One thing to plan for: Pakistan is a high-volume post, so interview wait times can run into months — apply well ahead of any travel.

Documents to prepare

• Passport (valid 6+ months)
• DS-160 confirmation page
• MRV fee receipt
• Interview appointment letter
• Recent photograph
• Proof of funds & income
• Job / business documents
• Invitation letter (if visiting family)

Frequently asked questions

Can I apply for B-1 and B-2 separately? You don’t need to — the combined B-1/B-2 covers both business and tourism. How long can I stay? The officer at the port of entry sets your stay, often up to six months per visit. What if I was refused before? You can reapply, but you should address whatever raised doubt last time — usually weak ties or unclear purpose.

The US visa rewards honest, well-prepared applicants with a clear story. If you’d like help preparing your DS-160, organising your documents and getting interview-ready, we’re here to guide you through every step.

Why applications are refused — and how to avoid it

The most common US refusal is under Section 214(b) — the officer wasn’t convinced the applicant would return to Pakistan. It usually comes down to weak ties, unclear purpose, or finances that don’t add up. The fix is not a thicker file; it’s a clearer story. Be ready to explain, in one or two sentences, why you’re going, how long for, who is paying, and what you’re coming back to — your job or business, your family, your home. Consistency between your DS-160, your answers and your documents is what builds trust.

Preparing for the interview

The interview is short — often just a few questions — so first impressions count. Dress smartly, arrive early, and keep your answers honest and to the point. Don’t memorise a script; officers can tell. Know your own itinerary and finances well enough to answer naturally. If you’re visiting family, know who they are and their status in the US. If it’s business, know the company and the purpose of your meetings. Calm, clear, consistent answers do more for you than any single document.

• Arrive early and organised
• Answer honestly and briefly
• Know your trip and finances
• Keep documents neat but ready

After approval

If approved, your passport is returned with the visa, usually within a few days — though some cases go into short additional “administrative processing.” Remember that the visa lets you travel to a US port of entry; the officer there sets your actual permitted stay. Keep your visits genuine and within your allowed time, and each future trip becomes easier.