US Lists Prohibited Activities for Visitor Visa Holders

The US government has issued a warning regarding activities prohibited for holders of a visitor visa (B1/B2), emphasizing that this visa is strictly for temporary visits. The six activities that cannot be legally performed on a visitor visa include: enrolling in academic programs, taking paid employment, performing professionally for a paying audience, entering as a crew member on a ship or aircraft, working as foreign press, and using the visa for permanent residence or birth tourism.

Engaging in any of these activities risks serious immigration consequences, including automatic visa cancellation under Section 222(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. Additionally, failing to depart the US before the visa expires places the holder out of status, leading to ineligibility for future US visas.

Those whose circumstances change while in the US may apply for a change of nonimmigrant status through US Citizenship and Immigration Services without leaving the country, but must apply for a new visa in the appropriate category if they depart.