B-1/B-2 vs ESTA/VWP: which US visa is right for you?
Two ways to visit the US short-term: the B-1/B-2 visitor visa, and the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) for citizens of participating countries staying up to 90 days.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | B-1/B-2 Visitor Visa (Business/Tourism) (B-1/B-2) | Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) (ESTA/VWP) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Short stay | Short stay |
| Who it's for | For people visiting the US temporarily for business (B-1) or tourism, pleasure or medical treatment (B-2). | For citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries travelling for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa. |
| Government cost | ~US$185 (MRV application fee) | ~US$21 (ESTA authorization fee) |
| Processing time | ~2 weeks to several months depending on consulate wait times | ~Usually within 72 hours (apply at least 72 hours before travel) |
| Length of stay | Usually up to 6 months per entry (visa valid up to 10 years for many nationalities) | Up to 90 days per entry, no extensions |
| Where to apply | At a US embassy or consulate abroad | Online (ESTA application before travel) |
| Work rights | No employment in the US (B-1 allows limited business activities only) | No employment (limited business activities only) |
| Pathway to PR | No direct path to a green card; a separate immigrant petition would be required. | No path to a green card; not a visa and cannot be extended or adjusted in most cases. |
Which is right for you?
B-1/B-2 Visitor Visa (Business/Tourism) (B-1/B-2)
For people visiting the US temporarily for business (B-1) or tourism, pleasure or medical treatment (B-2).
Full B-1/B-2 guide →Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) (ESTA/VWP)
For citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries travelling for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa.
Full ESTA/VWP guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, B-1/B-2 or ESTA/VWP?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) (ESTA/VWP) is the lowest at ~US$21 (ESTA authorization fee). Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which is processed faster, B-1/B-2 or ESTA/VWP?
Indicatively B-1/B-2 Visitor Visa (Business/Tourism) (B-1/B-2) is the quickest at ~2 weeks to several months depending on consulate wait times. Actual timeframes depend on caseload and how complete your application is.
What's the main difference between B-1/B-2 and ESTA/VWP?
B-1/B-2 Visitor Visa (Business/Tourism) (B-1/B-2) is for for people visiting the US temporarily for business (B-1) or tourism, pleasure or medical treatment (B-2). Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) (ESTA/VWP) is for for citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries travelling for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa.