B1/B2 Visitor Information

The B1 category may be appropriate for foreign scholars wishing to visit Northern Kentucky University for short periods of time for professional activities. These activities may not constitute employment. Appropriate activities include:

• Consultation with professional associates
• Participation in scientific, educational, or professional conventions or seminars
• Independent research

Visitors in the B1/B2 classification are not permitted to engage in any form of employment in the United States. They are allowed to receive reimbursements and honoraria as long as:

• The academic activity is no longer than nine days
• The visitor has not accepted honoraria from more than five institutions or organizations within a six-month period

The United States provides two exceptions to the requirement for a visa.

Exception 1: Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

The first exception to the visa requirement is for citizens of countries participating in the VWP, which allows citizens admission for business or tourism for up to 90 days without a visa.

For a list of participating countries and for additional information about VWP, please visit the Visa Waiver section of the U.S. Department of State website.

Exception 2: Canadian citizens

The other visa exception applies to Canadian citizens who are not required to obtain a visa for admission to the United States in any immigration (visa) category.

The following steps are suggested for departments intending to invite B1 visitors:

• Contact the International Office if you have any questions regarding whether or not the B1/B2 category is the most appropriate
• Contact the Northern Kentucky University Human Resources office and the Legal Affairs Office if your department intends to pay the visitor an honorarium or reimbursement of expenses
• Issue an invitation letter which includes the following information:
  • Purpose of the visit
  • Dates of the visit
  • Funding information