The U.S. Department of State has detailed visitor visa guidance.
B-1/B-2
"Visitor visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons who want to enter the United States temporarily for business (B-1 visa), for tourism (B-2 visa), or for a combination of both purposes (B-1/B-2 visa)."
WB/WT
The WB/WT status is the equivalent of B-1/B-2 visa. Tourist or business travelers who are citizens of participating countries may be eligible to visit the United States on WB/WT. Visits must be 90 days or less, and travelers must meet all requirements.
Using the Visitor Status at UCLA
For short-term academic visits, the Dashew Center recommends using the J-1 Short-term Scholar visa instead of the B-1/WB, as it better aligns with academic activities and reduces the risk of visa denials or denied admittance into the U.S. at a port of entry. Cases where individuals were turned away at the port of entry and advised to return under a J-1 status instead have been reported in the past.
However, B-1/WB visa may be an option for the following if the visit is 3 weeks or less:
- the visitor is invited to come to UCLA as a speaker
- the visitor will be attending a meeting
- the visitor will be attending an interview
- the visitor will be attending a conference or workshop
The B-2/WT is not recommended under any circumstances since the primary purpose of this visa type is "tourism."
Payments under Visitor Visas
With regards to payment eligibility under a visitor visa, contact UCLA Payroll for restrictions and limitations.
ALIEN - INDEPENDENT PERSONAL SERVICE PAYMENT ELIGIBILITY BY VISA STATUS
Dashew Center Reporting
UCLA visitors holding B-1/WB status are not required to report to the Dashew Center. The Dashew Center does not monitor visitors who are holding B1/WB visa status and these visitors do not require processing or support from the Dashew Center.