Hi All,

This is Veera. Need small information from you.

I got some problem with my I-94. I have entered to US on the business purpose. But on my I-94, by mstake the class was mentioned as B2. Can you please guide me how to get it corrected? And can anyone please explain me the consequences due to this?

Thanks
Veera

Have you browsed through the information in LawInfo's Free Legal Resource Center to learn more about your issue yet? See: http://www.lawinfo.com/consumer.html. You can certainly try to speak to a lawyer to determine what legal options may be available. In the meantime, you may be able to learn more on your own. Search the "Free Legal Resources" tab, or browse the Consumer Resources. Good luck.

Hi, Veera:

Generally, Customs & Border Patrol ("CBP") issues B-1 or B-2 visas somewhat interchangeably. Two issues here:

1) What did you tell the officer when you entered? If you told them what you were planning to do, then they probably issued the B-2 in accordance with that. If you're convinced they made a mistake, you could go back to the CBP office and ask them to re-issue a new I-94. Before you do, however, you should certainly consult with a qualified, experienced immigration attorney. You could inadvertently say something that would make CBP reconsider their decision to admit you. Which leads to my second point...

2) If you entered for business, be careful. Even if you get a B-1, you are only allowed to engage in commercial transactions not involbed in gainful employment -- for example negotiating contracts or consulting with clients or business associates. You could also attend a business convention in B-1 (or B-2 for that matter). If you're thinking of doing anythng in the USA where you'd be paid in the USA, you are entering a complex area that could jeopardize future immigration options.

Consult with a qualified, experienced immigration attorney to diiscuss your plans. An early visit can make sure that you have time to explore and exercise all your options.

If you're arround the Philadelphia area, call my office at 610 664-6271 and set up an in-person consultation; if you're farther away, we can set up a phone consult.

If you don't contact me, I urge you to consult with an experienced immigration attorney who focuses their practice on immigration law and is active in the local American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) chapter.

Good luck!

John
john@hvmmigrationlaw.com

Hi John,

Thanks a lot for your response. Actually I was told to the officer that I came for business discussions and need to stay here for next three months. He didn't ask for any single document. I am not sure how he interpreted and gave B2 visa and that to for next 6 months. Can you please clarify me what might happened?

Thanks
Veera

Hi, Veera:

1) As long as you told the truth, you should be fine;
2) It is normal for CBP to give 6 months, even though you asked for less. Six months is the default.

I hope this helped; it's not offered or intended as legal advice, I'm just going on the facts you gave me. If you have concerns, you really need to consult with an experienced immigration attorney. It's a lot like asking your physician for advice on the phone; your headache may be caused by stress, or it may be caused by a tumor. Only so much you can do without a proper visit. Best to get it checked out in a holistic manner. You might be pleasantly surprised at what is possible.

Good luck,

John